Agencies are driven by open searches and by recurring needs from their clients, as it is the client, and not the applicant, paying the fee. To work successfully with an agency, send in a resume, along with a cover letter indicating availability, type of job sought, timing, etc. The agency, if they see current or future applicability to their needs, will call or email you with additional questions about your current status, financial requirements and details about your work history and interests in a new position. An interview with the agency is then scheduled, if there is a current opening that is a match. In some cases, if convenient for both sides, an exploratory meeting may be held so that if something comes up quickly, the meeting has already been done.

Once you are set up in the recruiting firm's stable, so to speak, it is imperative to have a reach number and/or email that you check on a regular basis. If the agency calls, you should return the call ASAP, as they are probably trying to determine your interest in a particular position and set up an interview for you with a company. Assuming you interview, it is imperative to let your agency represent you throughout the process as they best know their client. You need to get back to them immediately after an interview with your feedback, so they know what your position is about the opening when the client calls. If an offer is forthcoming, it will come from the agency, and they will handle negotiations. Let them do their job!

If nothing happens from the initial contact and/or screening, stay in touch periodically. Be sure to let them know if your contact information changes so they can update your file. Jobs that may be perfect for you can come up months, and sometimes years later. It's always worth listening, so stay in contact, with an occasional updated resume, and you will remain in their loop. If they have a web site with their jobs posted, check regularly and let them know if you feel you see a match to your background. You may be aware of something in your background that didn't come across in your resume that makes you a fit. Conversely, they may know something about their client and/or search that makes you not a match. You don't know if you don't check.

For those not contacted, be aware that an agency is staffing jobs for customers who generally want at least two or more years experience in the job being staffed, or a great internship, before hiring with a fee. If you are an accountant, with a desire to design apparel, an agency can't help. You need to network and find that first job yourself. Try schools, internships, sending resumes to companies that are advertising, etc. You'll find it- and send the agency an update after you do!

Located in the heart of the garment district, Karlyn Fashion Recruiters has been a leading search firm in the apparel and home market for almost twenty-five years. We pride ourselves on making excellent matches for both our customers and our applicants. Always adhering to the highest standards in the staffing industry, Karlyn is the first, and in many cases, the only, choice for numerous companies and candidates. Call us today and begin your Karlyn experience!