There’s no doubt about it: today’s grads have it tough. The job market is more competitive than ever. While companies compete to recruit top talent, most grads struggle to get their foot in the door.
The situation is compounded by a lack of experience and a pile of school debt. You need a job, but without experience, it can be difficult to gain the attention of hiring managers.
What can you do?
The Staffing Agency Solution
One path few grads think about is finding work through a staffing agency. There are many myths and misconceptions about staffing agencies. These misconceptions can make job seekers, including new grads, hesitant to work with an agency.
In many situations, a staffing agency’s your best bet! The agency works with a number of different employers, often in several different fields. These employers trust the agency with all sorts of positions: part time, temporary, and permanent positions may be filled by a staffing agency.
New grads can realize many benefits by finding work through a staffing agency.
More Jobs
As mentioned, staffing agencies often work with many different companies to fill different positions. Some postings are exclusive to an agency. Some companies hire almost exclusively through staffing agencies.
Working through a staffing agency, you’ll get access to more jobs than you would when searching on your own.
Better Fit
One benefit of finding work through a staffing agency is finding a better fit for you. The agency is working on behalf of both you and the employer. Think of a recruiter as a mediator. The agency wants the best possible resolution between the job seeker and the employer.
Agencies work to ensure the “fit” is right not only for the employer but for the job seeker too. They interview and screen candidates based on culture. They’re unlikely to encourage you to submit an application to a company they know will clash with your values.
Gaining Experience
While almost every new grad is angling to get a full-time, permanent position, you should consider kickstarting your career with temporary positions. Temporary positions allow you to begin honing your skills and building your resume. You gain experience, which will be incredibly valuable.
You also get a chance to “try before you buy” when you’re finding work through a staffing agency. A series of temporary positions allows you to “sample” a number of different jobs and work environments, if you so wish. It helps you, the new grad, discover what you’re really passionate about and what kind of work environment you would like to work in.
Great Advice
Another benefit of finding work through a staffing agency? The agency can help you build a better job search strategy and application. Resume writing is a difficult task. Staffing agency employees almost always have some tips to polish up your resume and cover letter. They can also help you perform better in interviews.
They can guide your job search more effectively than you may be able to on your own. They might point you toward new opportunities or jobs you didn’t even know existed.
In short, finding work through a staffing agency just might be the best move you make after getting your diploma.
