Agencies - Do you use them??/

[HannsG]

Just curious. I am getting a few calls from Agents I have used in the past. Seeign how things are and so on..

Do you guys see Agencies as absolutley crucial in landing a job? I would say around 90% of the guys I have met in my working life have secured jobs through agencies. Be it temp, perm or contract.

In my experience they try and make you go for a lower salary than you would want inorder to secure the position.

So you kinda have to be firm and direct about what you want.

[NickHKent]

"In my experience they try and make you go for a lower salary than you would want inorder to secure the position."

I politely disagree with that. 99% of the time (for permanent roles) it's in the agency's interest to secure you the highest amount of money possible as it means than can charge a larger fee.

Employers are a lot more savvy than they used to be and are often prepared to play hard ball and offer a lower salary than the candidate originally asked in an attempt to save a few quid.

[ewenm]

I'd rather not use an agency but they seem to be a necessary evil.

[Gargamel]

ewenm said:

I'd rather not use an agency but they seem to be a necessary evil.

I work for a large company, I am an ex agency headhunter.

Collectively in the UK & Europe we save around £3m per year hiring directly.

My advice, think of the top ten firms you want to work for. Look them up, see how easy it is to contact them direct and do they have the right position for you.

If not, then agencies certainly will bring to you roles you wouldn't otherwise source. But direct sourcing is on the rise.

Trying looking for and connecting with In house recruiters or Talent Acquisition via linked in, you might be surprised.

[NickHKent]

"But direct sourcing is on the rise."

Definitely agree with this. I advise people to explore their own networks initially and to use firms like mine to get them access to businesses that they can't get into themselves.

[Mojooo]

ewenm said:

I'd rather not use an agency but they seem to be a necessary evil.

Exactly its one of many ways to get a job but its an important one as so many jobs are agency only.