What does working through a temp agency mean to you?

When you are looking for a (new) job, you soon come across the word employment agency. Maybe you've heard of it, or maybe you've even worked through a temp agency. But what does it really mean to you as a candidate? Is it complicated, or just easy? And what are the benefits? Let's look at it step by step.

What is an employment agency?

A temp agency is actually a kind of middleman. Companies need people, and you're looking for work. The employment agency brings you together. The agency makes sure you can get a job with a company quickly, often without long application procedures. There are employment agencies that focus on specific sectors, such as healthcare, technology or hospitality.

So you do not get a contract with the company itself, but with the employment agency. They arrange your wages, your contract and sometimes even training. Convenient, right? At Meta Carrière all that is taken care of for you, so you can fully focus on your work.

Why work through a temp agency?

You may be asking yourself, "Why should I work through a temp agency when I can also apply directly to a company?"

A few reasons:

• - Get to work quickly : Companies often use a temp agency because they need people fast. That means you can sometimes start within a few days.
• - Flexibility : Do you want to work temporarily because you are saving for a trip, for example? Or are you looking for a permanent job? Through a temp agency, you can often go either way because of the flexibility.
• - Gain experience : Not sure yet what direction you want to go in? Then you can try out different types of work through an employment agency.
• - Extra help: The employment agency will help you with your resume, application tips and sometimes courses. For example, Meta Carrière offers guidance that is really tailored to your personal situation.
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A real-life story: from temporary to permanent employment

Imagine: you have just finished your studies and have no idea what exactly you want to do. You register at an employment agency. Within a week an employee calls you: an administrative job is available at a large company. You go for an interview, and a few days later you can start.

After three months you are happy with your work. The company is also satisfied, and you are offered a contract. Without the employment agency, you might never have found this company. These kinds of opportunities are exactly why people choose agencies like Meta Carrière because this way you open doors that might otherwise remain closed.

What do candidates most often ask?

Working through a staffing agency often raises questions. To make it clear, we answer three common topics below.

1. 1. Will I get the same salary as someone working directly for the company?

Good question! Often you get the same salary as someone who has the same position at the company. This is because the temp agency must follow the rules that apply to that company.

2. 2. Can I get a permanent job through an employment agency?

Yes, many people start temporarily through a temp agency and then get a permanent contract with the company itself. In the Netherlands hundreds of thousands of people work through temporary employment agencies.

3. 3. Is working through a temporary employment agency only for starters?

Certainly not. Even if you already have a lot of work experience, it can come in handy. For example, if you are between jobs or need quick income. Many large companies have found their best employees through an employment agency.

Are there any disadvantages? And how do you deal with them?

Of course, there are things to consider:

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• - Less security in the beginning: Often you start with a temporary contract. But see it as an opportunity to show yourself.
• - Dependence : You have to deal with both the company where you work and the temp agency. Make sure you make clear agreements.
• - Unfamiliar territory: If you have never worked through a temp agency before, it may take some getting used to. Fortunately, there is always someone at the agency ready to answer your questions.
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What does it get you specifically?

In practice, working through an employment agency means that you find work faster, receive guidance, gain valuable experience and often move on to a permanent job more easily. For some it is temporary, for others a springboard to a new career.

Ask yourself these questions:

• 1. Do I want to find work quickly, without endlessly applying for jobs?
• 2. Am I open to new experiences and different types of work?
• 3. Do I like having someone help me in my search?
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Do you answer yes to one or more questions? Then an employment agency is probably the right step for you.

Time for your next step

Working through a temp agency may sound complicated, but it is actually simple and often very convenient. It gives you the chance to get started quickly, learn new things and expose yourself to companies you might never enter otherwise.

So, are you looking for work? Contact Meta Carrière and discover your opportunities! We will listen to your needs, help you get started personally and make sure you find the job that suits you.