Employment Agencies vs. Employment Services, Know the Difference!
The modern job market can be difficult to break into, with many job seekers competing for the same job in addition to the recruiting apps and online profiles one must contend with. Thankfully, there are many resources available for those who are looking to break into the workforce, though not all employment resources are created equally.
Two resources you are likely to encounter during the job-hunting process are employment agencies and employment services. Therefore, it is crucial that you familiarize yourself with the differences between these resources and what you will personally gain from seeking their assistance.
Employment agencies are for profit companies whose primary objective is to serve businesses.
Employment agencies act as an extension of their client’s recruiting department. Their primary objective is to find employees for their clients and address the recruiting challenges the employer may have. Some employment agencies focus on a specific industry. Manufacturing and logistics companies often have a need for a flexible worker force with temporary workers who are willing to pick up shifts when needed. Some agencies specialize in the science sector, information technology and some are more focused on administrative or management jobs. If you have some flexibility, short-term placements with clients of the employment agencies can be a great way to explore different jobs and different industries and corporate cultures. These short-term assignments can also be a way to leave a good impression for future permanent opportunities.
Employment services are not-for-profit organizations funded by the government whose primary objective is to serve job seekers.
Employment services' primary customer is a job seeker, someone who is looking for assistance in navigating the job market or developing their career. They provide individuals with customized support to enter the work force, change a career, access skills building programs, build and optimize the resume, create an online profile, conduct an effective job search, prepare for a job interview and so on. Working one to one with an employment services specialist will give you insight into what to look for when conducting a job search and how to negotiate employment contracts and work towards establishing a stable career. Employment services also work with local employers on their staffing needs, giving you exposure to local businesses. If you have special needs, employment services specialists will be working with local businesses to find the job that is most suitable for you.
While the differences between agency and service are obvious, it is important to know that there is a slight overlap in what each offer. For example, employment services also assist local businesses with their staffing needs and employment agencies will assist a job seeker in preparing for the interview. But even in this overlap the nature of the service offered is influenced by the organization's core objective, serving the business or serving the person.
It should be noted that you can engage with both an employment agency and employment services at the same time, as they are not mutually exclusive. In fact, you might want to work with an employment service specialist as your personal career coach to set your career goals, prepare for an effective job search and engage with an employment agency to give you exposure to their clients in an industry you are interested in.
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