Candidates entering into the recruiting process for the first time often do so with only a vague idea of what to expect and little knowledge about what goes on behind the scenes at a staffing agency. While each agency is different, Market Street Talent follows a comprehensive and personalized approach to bringing candidates through the recruitment process. Wondering what to expect? Below is our step-by-step process, courtesy of Market Street Talent’s Managing Director Chris Howgate:
- We interview each candidate in person or by phone to learn about his or her job search. We ask the person what he or she is looking for in their next job with regard to money, commute, position, and culture. This sets the stage for open and honest communication so we can make sure we are looking for positions that closely match the candidate’s wish list.
- During the interview, we discuss specific jobs and qualify the candidate on the requirements of the position (to avoid wasting anyone’s time if the candidate doesn’t qualify for a position). If our current openings don’t match the candidate’s skills and qualifications, we will still interview the candidate to fully understand his or her experience and interests since new job postings are submitted to our office every day. In many cases, we are proactive with a candidate’s search; we’ll even contact clients with whom we have good relationships to inquire about potential future opportunities.
- We request references and perform reference checks.
- Simultaneously, we review each candidate’s resume for mistakes, such as spelling errors and formatting issues, and once corrected, we send the resume along to the client with a detailed write-up about the candidate.
- If the client agrees that the candidate is a qualified match, we set up an interview with the client. If the interview is in person, we will walk the candidate into the interview and make the initial introduction whenever possible.
- Since most candidates will need to go through several rounds of interviews with the client, we work with the client and candidate to coordinate any subsequent interviews.
- If and when an offer is made, we extend the offer to the candidate on behalf of the client and facilitate any counter-offers or paperwork requirements.
- A few weeks after the candidate starts his or her new job, we follow up with the candidate and client to make sure both parties are satisfied with the outcome.
Here are some additional tips to help you along the way:
- Find one or two agencies you trust and stick with them.
- Keep track of where your resume is going, especially if you are working with more than one agency. If your resume lands on a hiring manager’s desk from several different sources, it creates confusion and will often cause the client to pass on it altogether.
- Be responsive. Return phone calls or emails to your recruiter, even if it’s just to say that you have received the email and are considering the position or offer.
- Handwrite a thank-you note or send a thank-you email. Keep it simple and work with your recruiter if you are at a loss for words.
Have any other questions about the recruiting process? If so, we’re happy to answer them – just give us a call or send us an email.
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