With unemployment in the U.S. at historic lows, and more open tech positions than qualified talent, skilled IT job seekers today are immersed in an opportunity-rich landscape. Even so, it’s still smart for candidates to partner with an expert staffing agency, whether just launching their IT career, in the middle or as an industry veteran. A first-rate staffing firm can make a powerful difference in your professional experience.
During my 25 years in the staffing business, I’ve worked with thousands of candidates and clients, and experience daily the immense value an agency delivers. But not just any agency.
Not one that relies on AI and other technology to simply match keywords on a resume with openings, but a company that thoughtfully invests in ongoing personal relationships. Not a body shop that blasts out resumes without authorization, rushing to fill positions and move on. And not one that indifferently “puts butts in seats,” but instead an organization truly committed to creating a win-win for job seekers and companies.
While all staffing agencies are not the same, a great one can be life-changing. To find one, seek word-of-mouth referrals from respected colleagues, classmates or online reviews like Glassdoor; then consider how a specialized firm can enhance your IT career.
Access
One of the greatest benefits of working with a staffing agency is the ability to bypass the job board or company website black hole, where resumes end up in a virtual stack, often overlooked or rejected by HR or staffers who aren’t directly connected to the hiring manager or technical team. Reputable agencies have strategic partnerships with many businesses – from start-ups to national corporations – working directly with decision-makers and high-level managers in multiple IT specialties. And some agencies serve as preferred vendors for large enterprises, which is an ideal avenue to pursue job leads.
Agency access not only gets you in the door, but also includes a personal introduction and recommendation, commanding the attention of those who understand specific qualifications and job responsibilities, and ultimately who make the interviewing and hiring decisions.
The bottom line: you have a much better likelihood of getting an interview, and potentially an offer, when you partner with a respected staffing agency that regularly works with the key players in a wide variety of companies and positions. It still really is all about who you know.
Opportunity
Along with access to companies via the back door, excellent IT staffing firms continually manage a ton of job opportunities – some of which may not be posted publicly. From direct placement, contract-to-hire and contract positions, agencies have an open line of communication with clients and their many different needs, from entry-level to senior executive roles, which means a much greater pool for you to explore to find your dream job.
Furthermore, savvy agencies function like talent agents do for athletes or actors/entertainers. They serve skilled IT professionals not only by presenting them with numerous opportunities, but also by providing counsel; navigating a job-rich environment; and negotiating the best option, including compensation packages, based on individual preferences and goals. Staffing professionals like me are career coaches, able to see the big picture, implement job changes and outline an ideal professional path.
Expertise
Of course, it can be a full-time job to get a job, even in a growing market like IT. Because staffing agencies take on much of the legwork and heavy lifting, candidates are free to focus on their current job, pursue additional education or certifications or work their network.
As career counselors, staffing professionals also can help job seekers differentiate themselves to maximize employment opportunities. This includes practical assistance in creating, refining and tailoring resumes to best suit specific positions.
Plus, staffing experts can offer interview preparation guidance, including insider details about the job, the employer and in some cases, the interviewer/s. This expertise is invaluable, particularly in the ultra-competitive and constantly evolving tech industry.
Relationship
The best staffing agencies are dedicated to establishing and maintaining relationships with both candidates and clients, which requires listening and understanding. They immerse themselves in their clients’ businesses to know their needs, business drivers and goals.
Candidates should be perceived as more than just experience, certifications, education and keywords. Diligent staffing experts personally partner with them to enrich their professional path, and are invested for the long-term, committed to collaboration over many years.
Smart staffing firms recognize that their success is dependent on mutually rewarding placements, satisfied clients and thriving professionals. At ConsultNet, our core values of teamwork, integrity and professionalism are what help us achieve these outcomes.
Investment
Because people are our business, naturally, it is profitable to invest in candidates, consultants and clients. Staffing agencies should support job seekers with networking opportunities, training and career resources.
ConsultNet’s Contractor Care is a dedicated way that we nurture those working for us, through efforts like a formal onboarding and welcome process, ongoing touch points like lunches and phone check-ins and various perks and benefits. Agencies that take good care of their contractors and consultants definitely foster a more rewarding experience, which leads to greater satisfaction and professional fulfillment.
Qualified staffing agencies are an ideal partner when conducting a job search at any stage in your career. Please feel free to reach out to me for more information.