NOt really a job for me, but agency is trying to persude me to go for it

londoner1998

Hello

I went for an interview last week and the company want to see me again for a second interview. I was put forward for it by a recruitment agency: I applied for another post, but apparently I wasn't suitable and they asked if they could put me through for this one. I said, yes- more than anything so that I could sign up with the agency and see what they are like. Now, the job will not give me any skills and I don't have already and it is ok but rather far away from what I want to do next. It really diverts my career path on to something that has nothing to do with it.
I was made redundant at the beginning of February and I am now applying for roles in Universities and the like and I am really keen on a role with a European Research project. THis might or might not happen (I had a chat with the professor recruiting and it looked a very good match for my skills, and challenging). I really want to take this chance to find something that is aligned with my skills and experience and not just something that comes along (like it has happened when I really had to take anything on offer).

Now, I really am not interested in the job the agency sent me for (it hasn't been offered yet, though, but there is a strong chance they might, mainly due to my language skills) and I don't want to start with them to have to go in two or three months. My plan is to concentrate on my job search (which is keeping me busy) and if in two months things don't move on, then consider temp work or any kind of position, without being so selective. Any advice? I emailed the agency explaining I was keen on something else and wanted to concentrate on that, but the agent is adamant that I should go for this anyway. and now I am starting to feel a bit guilty about the whole thing.
Thanks x

whitewing

Why don't you agree to it if they will take you on as a temporary contract? It may work out for you all then. It can give the company a bit longer to recruit someone more permanent, you can continue your job search (make it clear that you will need to attend suitable interviews) and obviously the agency is fine.

song_of_calliope

Don't let the agency guilt you into anything whatever you do. They only care about their commission, they're not looking out for your best interests. You have to look out for yourself.

If you don't want the job and don't really need the money, don't take it. It's as simple as that.

londoner1998

Thank you for your replies, that just confirms what I feel. I have made it clear that I am happy to fill in for the next few weeks until they find a suitable candidate... that would be for me the best situation. The agent still wants to 'talk about it': 'what will happen if you don't get the other job? you might not get offered it' ... and that is all true, but I am more then prepared to keep putting my energy on things that excite me. When I start to see that I am getting nowhere and the money is running out, then I can and I will take just anything. Redundancy will last for another 5 months or so, so ok , it not forever, but deep down I feel this can be the chance to move forward after a really tough year. I feel free and happy for the first time in probably 4-5 years!!!