Worried New Job Start

Cousin_Creditor

Hello,

I recently attended an induction with a new employer. It was a 2 hour induction and there were 6 people that were supposed to attend, but only 4 of us turned up. 

I phoned the recruitment agent after the induction and said that I was willing to work there. 

During the induction the issue of safety boots cropped up. For a couple of us, we were told that new safety boots would be ordered in. 

Later that day, I got a text message from the recruiting agent asking me to work that night. It was around 4 hours notice and I don't have any safety boots. Eventually she told me not to worry and she said that she would get me started there ASAP.

That was last Thursday. I still don't have a start date.

Could it be that this could go belly up and I won't get a start? Should I offer to go and buy some safety boots first if that is what is holding back my start? 

FlorayG

You should have a formal letter with terms and conditions if you are accepted for employment, plus it sounds like the sort of job ( safety boots required) where you should undertake H&S training before starting any work. What sort of job is it?

Cousin_Creditor

FlorayG said:

You should have a formal letter with terms and conditions if you are accepted for employment, plus it sounds like the sort of job ( safety boots required) where you should undertake H&S training before starting any work. What sort of job is it?

Well we watched several health and safety videos. We did a manual handling assessment. There was a quiz.

I haven't received a letter but she did explain a few things verbally about working for an employment agency. I haven't received anything formal via text, letter or email. 

It's factory work. 

I'm just wondering if I would even hear anything if I've been pipped to the post by other candidates. Or if it was a rejection. She did say that she was awaiting a start for me, though. 

FlorayG

Oh you are working for the agency not for the employer? In that case, it may be that you will get work on an as-needed basis. Agency workers usually fill in when regular workers are off sick or on holiday or there is a rush on orders to fill. So you will probably get a call when they next need an extra worker

Cousin_Creditor

FlorayG said:

Oh you are working for the agency not for the employer? In that case, it may be that you will get work on an as-needed basis. Agency workers usually fill in when regular workers are off sick or on holiday or there is a rush on orders to fill. So you will probably get a call when they next need an extra worker

Well the advert said full time and 48 hours per week and that it was temporary contract. 

FlorayG

Quite often employers change their mind...I would 'phone the agency and enquire, shows you are keen

Cousin_Creditor

FlorayG said:

Quite often employers change their mind...I would 'phone the agency and enquire, shows you are keen

Yeah.

My main concern is that what if it is indefinite? You know, like: "we will let you know." The indefinite wait coupled with due dates looming is a heady mix for some anxiety.