Temp agency question

[Yawper]

Posted: 9/6/08 at 6:18pm

I have to start job hunting and have never used a temp agency before. When I go to one do I have to dress and be all formal as if they are the interviewer or can I go casual? Can I talk to them honestly, especially since I tangled with my last employer, or not?

[cubanpab]

Posted: 9/6/08 at 6:25pm

dress in business attire, be honest... they're great. but good luck, it took me forever to get placed.

[ShbrtAlley44]

Posted: 9/6/08 at 6:26pm

You have to contact the agency for an interview, just like any job interview, so yes, I'd wear something nice. They should test your proficiency at typing, various computer programs, and interview you. You're looking to be hired by this agency, which is using you as a representative and sending you to other companies, so you want to look like a responsible and put-together individual.

[Jane2]

Posted: 9/6/08 at 6:26pm

This is what I thnk-You should present yourself as professionally as possible. That includes manner of dress and behavior. What the temp agency sees, is what they will be sending out to their clients.

I wouldn't mention any negatives as far as employment goes. You're competing with thousands of others for work. Why would they send out a potential problem worker?

Of course I don't know what happened, but I'd say don't bring it up.

[ShbrtAlley44]

Posted: 9/6/08 at 6:31pm

I agree. As a matter of form it's not professional to say negative things about a former employer or workplace. It's enough to say that you made the decision to pursue other opportunities.

[Jane2]

Posted: 9/6/08 at 6:38pm

Well, also, do you think any of the other applicants are going to say anything negative about themselves as a potential employee? No! The agency is only going to send out who they *think* have the best records.

[Yawper]

Posted: 9/6/08 at 7:10pm

Do temp agencies ever act as career counselors, too, or help out in that way? I'd like to learn some new stuff on the job but I don't imagine there are many employers who will go for that.

[Mistress Overdone]

Posted: 9/6/08 at 9:09pm

Yawper, some agencies offer skills training for things like computer programs, and sometimes for free. If so, take advantage of as MUCH training as you can!