For many new or recent grads, getting a decent job in their field is one of the most important things on their to-do list. Instead of studying, the days become filled with scouring the help wanted ads, surfing job boards, and plastering resumes across the internet. But finding a job doesn’t have to be so difficult - if you use a staffing agency.

“A lot of finding a job is about relationships. An agency can bring a specific individual to the company because of their relationship with a company. A staffing agency is like having a good dentist or good doctor,” says Chris Roach, the national president of the Association of Canadian Search, Employment and Staffing Services (ACSESS).

There are some common misconceptions about staffing agencies. One is that you make less than you would if you found the job on your own. This isn’t necessarily true: a reputable agency doesn’t take a chunk out of your salary to cover its fees - there is a separate fee negotiated between the employer and the agency. Another misconception is that agencies are only for skilled labourers and not professionals. The fact is that staffing firms are present in every industry and deal with people of all skill levels. But how do you find the right one for you?

First, find your niche. All industries have specialized staffing agencies. Make sure the organization you are considering works with companies you would want to work for. For example, if you are looking for a job in a law firm, you don’t want a firm that specializes in placing computer science grads

Then visit them in person. Just like someone’s home says a lot about who they are, an agency’s location and office can say a lot about who it is and what it does. You will be working closely with the agency, so you want to make sure it is a good fit for you as much as the agency needs you to be a right fit for it.

Staffing agencies shouldn’t be charging you money - for anything. If the agency requires any kind of fee, wants to pay you in cash or hold your first cheque, steer clear.

Google it, see what others are saying about the agency and check its website. “If the company doesn’t have one, I would be a little wary,” says Roach.

Although it is not mandatory for staffing agencies to be a member of ACSESS, there are over 1,000 agencies that are. To be a member, all firms have to abide by a code of ethics. Using a staffing agency that is regulated by ACSESS could save you a lot of hassle. jp