In today's economy, it's no secret more people are looking for work to regain their household incomes. If you have experienced a lengthy period of unemployment, you may know first-hand the frustration associated with hunting available positions and securing interviews, hoping to make the cut before a slew of other candidates get there first. The best job suited to your skills may not be listed in the newspaper classifieds, either, so how do you know if all the options are presented to you?
College graduates, educators, and workers with advanced technological, legal, or clerical skills may wish to consider finding a job through an employment firm. It's important to note here that not all staffing firms deal with filling temporary positions. Depending on your goals for the future, approaching a temp firm may work if you plan to return to school to brush up on certain skills or obtain a new degree altogether. If you desire full-time work immediately, there are firms in business ready to help you.
Before You Visit an Employment Firm
Just as you would with any potential employer, you should prepare thoroughly for an appointment with an employment firm. These agents represent companies seeking specific candidates, therefore it is important to be ready to answer tough questions and, if necessary, prove your skills. Before you meet with a staff recruiter, be sure you are well-groomed and dressed for the office. Nails should be clean and trimmed and hair kempt; female job seekers may wish to wear make-up, but it is best not to go overboard with cosmetics and perfume. Your goal to project an image these agents believe the companies will see daily.
Have several copies of an updated resume on hand. In the event you meet with more than one person during an appointment, everybody may ask for a copy. Have personal and professional references on hand on separate sheets of paper, too, to deliver on request. Make sure any contact information you have on your references is current, too. If you are asked to take any aptitude or typing tests, just relax and be ready to perform. Especially with firms seeking to fill advanced positions, staffers look for a number of qualities in a potential employee, including one's ability to remain calm under pressure. The more your mind is set to the work at hand, the better you can relax and perform well.
Maintain good posture as you interview, as job recruiters will likely read your body language. Do you slouch in your seat, or make nervous gestures with your hands? If you feel you have a tic that may impair your interview performance, try a practice run with a friend, and watch in a mirror how you react to questions. Work on a calm yet professional presence, sitting up straight and hands still.
After You Visit an Employment Firm
Once you have finished your appointment with a staffing agent, it is important to maintain communication. Follow-up with an e-mail to your interviewer thanking them for their time, and reiterating your contact information in the event a position should come open. If you should happen to secure a job in the interim, notify the firm immediately. It is best to maintain a good relationship, in case you may need their services at another time.
Employment staffing companies are a good resource for potential jobs if you have a specific skill or education requirement, and wish to look beyond online and newspaper classifieds for work. Remember, the rules of applying and interviewing are the same with a firm as with any company, so be sure you are ready before you make that appointment. Good luck!
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on jobs in Virginia Beach and Virginia Beach real estate.
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