Why agents do that?

VeryMan

Hello! I noticed many agents lure me to just 'register' with them, by telling me that they have tons of jobs. Do they gain from my hassle to travel and waste my time to register with them? Or do I genuinely have chances to land a job? What is really going on with them?

vegasvisitor

They want as many people as possible on their books, so that they have the best chance of getting the commission if they can fill a job. Some companies will go to a few agencies, so if you're going to be the best candidate they want you on their books, not someone else's.

Temp agencies also seem to like people to stay exclusive to them. They seem to play games, but they do get a lot of people into work so it's up to you whether it's worth it. Just be wary of them sending out your CV to multiple companies who don't actually have vacancies. They can then try to claim commission on any job you get with that company, even if you find it yourself as they will claim they made an introduction. Legally they are supposed to tell you before sending your CV to any company.

Guest101

I started as a 2 week temp, I'm now 3 years in on a direct employment contract - must've done something right as they paid the £1000 transfer fee!