How do I join a recruitment consultancy?

Make initial contact by phone or send your CV and a cover letter by email. Explain what type of position you’re looking for and provide an overview of your skills and qualifications. You could call the recruitment agency shortly after submitting your email to confirm that they’ve received it.

You’ll usually be asked to make an appointment for an informal interview, in person, to assess your situation and discuss your career plans. Making a good first impression is vital, so act and dress professionally. Some job agencies may ask you to sit skills tests to determine your level of spelling and IT literacy. If the agency feels that they’ll be able to assist you in your search, your details will be added to their candidate database and they’ll get in touch when appropriate vacancies arise.

Keep in regular contact and maintain a good rapport with your assigned recruitment consultant. Act on their advice – they know what employers are looking for. Accept interviews unless you have a strong reason not to, and ask for feedback from your consultant after each one. If you’re using an employment agency to find temporary work, accept any reasonable job offers as this gives you the chance to show that you meet employers’ needs.

Let the recruitment agency know when you no longer want to be on their books, otherwise, they’ll continue contacting you after your job search has ended.

Can I join more than one job agency?

You can sign up with as many recruitment agencies as you like. However, don’t register just for the sake of it. There’s a risk that several agencies will suggest the same vacancy for you. Try to avoid this as the employer will not know who is representing you, and it can make your job search look unprofessional.

Ensure each agency you’re signed up with tells you each time they put you forward for a job. Choosing to work with a select few agencies will ensure your job search is focused and you don’t receive ‘spam’ calls and emails relating to unsuitable vacancies.