If you’ve either approached or been approached by a recruiter from a staffing agency, congrats! You’re on your first step toward your next big career move. While an interview with a staffing agency might not be quite the same as what you might expect from an employer, there are still a number of tips and recommendations we make for candidates to make the most of their time and experience. Here are a few things you should keep in mind.
Take It Seriously
Talking with a recruiter at a staffing agency is as serious as talking with a hiring manager at a company you are applying to work for. The only difference is that there is less of a focus on a particular job or position. Recruiters are the gate-keepers for their clients. They work hard to find and attract top talent within their industry so their customers, employers, don’t have to. With that in mind, it’s very important to take an interview with a recruiter as seriously as you would any other interview. Take the time to prepare, present yourself well, be polite and friendly, and focus on what you can do for employers, rather than what they can do for you.
Practice Your Interview Skills
While it’s good to put your best foot forward in an interview with a staffing agency, it’s also worth remembering that there isn’t a particular job on the line. The stress many people associate with a job interview is lessened somewhat because of that. Allow yourself to relax a little and focus instead on practicing your interviewing skills in person with someone who knows the industry, the types of jobs relevant to your experience, and can provide valuable feedback on your speaking style and presentation. Answer questions similarly to how you would with a prospective employer, and if it looks like something isn’t landing with the recruiter, chances are it’s not going to work with employers either. Learn from your experiences and remember that practice builds confidence, and helps fine-tune your personal pitch.
Keep an Open Mind
Recruiters are looking to speak with you with one key aim in mind. They are interviewing you to see if you are a good fit for any open jobs or jobs that could be open in the near future. While an interview with a recruiter a great opportunity to speak directly about your career goals and aspirations, also keep an open mind about the opportunities that your staffing contact might think are a good fit. With their industry insight and connections with employers looking to hire, what might not work out today may be an excellent fit in the future. Approach the conversation with an open mind and understand that the recruiter is interested in finding the best fit for both sides of the equation.
Work with a Leader in Staffing in Middle Tennessee
If you are looking for an industrial job in middle Tennessee, then All-Star Personnel is here to help. With our great team of recruiters located at our six branches, we are ready to assist your job search. Contact us today!
