The UK’s workforce is highly diverse, offering a variety of contract options to suit workers’ preferences and business needs. Permanent or indefinite-term contracts provide employees with stability and job security, while limited company or personal service company (PSC) contracts offer greater flexibility for professionals seeking short-term projects. For employers, collaborating with recruitment agencies can bring significant cost savings and time efficiency to the hiring process.
For jobseekers, recruitment agencies are a valuable source of information about the labour market, helping them improve their CVs and interview skills. They also have a network of connections that can be useful when finding a job, and they may speculatively send your CV to employers on your behalf if a suitable position comes up. If you’re unsuccessful in a job interview, a good recruitment agency will give constructive feedback.
If you register with a job agency, they’ll usually ask you to attend an informal interview – either virtually or in person. Then, they’ll add you to their candidate database and contact you when a suitable role becomes available. If you’re registered with multiple agencies, be sure to let them know when you’ve found a job or no longer want them to put forward your CV. Agencies that find staff for other businesses but pay them directly are known as employment businesses, and must follow working time regulations and minimum wage rules. Those that supply workers for agriculture, food processing, horticultural or shellfish-gathering roles are called gangmasters and must be licensed by the Gangmasters Licensing Authority. Employer Recruitment Services UK
