What types of agencies are out there?

Executive search firms and employment agencies search for candidates in response to employer requests or the demands of the job market. They also serve very different client groups, so it is important to understand the difference before selecting a service.

Employment Agencies

The best option for recent graduates or those with limited experience is an employment agency, (also known as a staffing agency, personnel agency, placement firm, or employment firm). They are used by employers looking to fill short-term (temporary) vacancies and entry-to-mid level permanent jobs. Registering with them can be a useful way to access opportunities in companies that recruit through agencies instead of advertising their positions.

Executive search firms

Also called "headhunters", these firms recruit candidates who are already employed or have significant work experience. They also negotiate the contract between the employee and employer. Sample positions include high-level positions from senior management to chief executive officers. Generally these services are not that helpful for new graduates (especially those with limited work experience).

What kind of work can I get through an agency?

Temporary Positions

Temporary work is not for everyone. You must be open-minded enough to try all sorts of different jobs, and flexible enough to take or lose work with little notice. However, because of its unique nature, temp work can help you:

• build skills and gain varied experience
• gain exposure to many different work environments
• make many new contacts for your network
• get considered for unadvertised permanent positions
• earn cash (you will be paid by the agency, who will invoice the employer)

For more on the advantages of "temping" and how to best use it to advance your career, read the collection of articles at Quintessential Careers.

Permanent positions

Permanent positions found through agencies are often in the financial and business industries. They typically include administrative, marketing, financial, IT, or engineering roles but there are also a wide variety of specializations. Some agencies focus on specific areas and you can use the resources listed below to find the best agencies for you.

The contract between you and the employer is negotiated by the agency and is the same as a real job offer. The employer pays the agency an additional fee for interviewing you, checking your references, and making the match.

Selecting the right agency

There are over 700 employment agencies and search firms in Toronto alone. To find listings, use the resources and websites recommended on the right hand side of this page.

To protect yourself, and make sure you find the right agency for you:

• check the type of positions they fill and ensure that their clients are from fields you are interested in
• determine which type of work appeals to you — temporary or permanent — and find an agency that specialize in it
• gather information about an agency's reputation, number of years in business, and job seekers’ satisfaction
• ensure that you are not providing any personal information such as your social insurance number before you have been placed in a job
• find out how they are going to circulate your information to employers
• verify that the service is free for job seekers — reputable agencies and firms make their profits from employers, not job-seekers

Registering with an agency

Apply to more than one agency. Each firm has only a certain number of clients, so the more firms you register with, the broader range of opportunities available to you. Here are the steps to take when registering:

1. Visit the agency’s website to learn more about them.
2. Send in your resume – most prefer you do this by e-mail. Indicate the types of roles and industries you are interested in. A cover letter is not necessary unless applying to a specific posted position.
3. Follow up with a phone call to ensure they have received your documents. Inquire if they have a specific recruiter for your industry of interest.
4. If the recruiter thinks you may be a good match for the agency's clients, you will be invited for an interview. Dress professionally, bring a copy of your resume, and prepare appropriately. The interview will typically be followed by a testing session which may take a few hours.
5. Be prepared to discuss which positions would be suitable for you. The recruiter may not have a job for you right away, so be patient and keep in touch.