As more employers are using recruiting agencies to fill available positions it is important for job seekers to be aware that a recruiting agency may be the best way to find a rewarding job in sales. Recruiting agencies are a direct line into the hidden job market and can be an enormous benefit to your job search, as long as you are working with the right agencies. Here are tips on how to find good recruiting agencies that will further your career goals.

Look For Recruiting Agencies That Have Jobs That Interest You

It is a common misconception that recruiting agencies only work between employers and job seekers confidentially. Although many respected recruiting agencies must keep some employers confidential at the request of the employer, a good recruiting agency will tell you as much information as possible about the positions available whether or not the employer is confidential. In addition, many of the employers with which recruiting agencies work are not confidential. This allows you to explore the options that a given agency has available. Use this information to find out:

• Where the majority of available placements are located. Is this within commuting range for you, or are you willing to relocate for the right sales position?
• What skills and abilities the employers are looking for. The recruiting agency you choose should have a variety of options in line with your skill set.
• Whether compensation is in line with your expectations. A respected recruiting agency should be willing to discuss ranges even if an exact number is not yet available.

Look For Recruiting Agencies That Can Help You Reach Your Goals

If you are considering a career change, it is likely that you are pursuing new or modified career goals. This is the time to start working towards those goals, and an established recruiting agency can help you on your way. However, a recruiter can only do this if you discuss your goals with him or her. Open a dialogue with the recruiting agencies you are interested in working with and discuss:

• Whether positions leading to advancement are available. If advancement is important to you, be sure to mention this to the recruiters you contact.
• What your qualifications are for advancement or change. If you would like to make a change in direction, a recruiting agency can be your advocate and help you make a smooth transition.
• The type of company you are interested in working for. Specify the industry, company size, and corporate environments you are most interested in pursuing.

Consider Whether Recruiting Agencies Have Temporary or Permanent Placements

While some recruiting agencies only work in temporary placement, this certainly is not true of all recruiting agencies. Many of the best recruiting firms work with temporary, temporary to permanent, and permanent placements together to ensure a variety of possibilities for employers and employees alike. When you are looking for a good recruiting agency, do your research to find one that has the types of placements available that you are interested in pursuing.

Interview Recruiting Agencies to Find the Right Fit

In a very real way, recruiting agencies work for you as much as they work for employers. When you are considering recruiting agencies to help you find your next sales position, interview the agencies that have most interested you to find out which agency is the right fit. Ask questions like:

• How long has your organization been recruiting, and how long have you been with the organization?
• Given my background and goals, how do you propose aiding my job search?
• What is your placement history for someone with my work history?
• Are there any suggestions you have for me to increase my opportunities?

For many sales professionals, recruiting agencies are the most efficient way to land the next position with a competitive company. Research recruiting agencies in your area to find the best match for your career goals.