IT Staffing Industry

Hello,

I have worked in the HR Industry for about 12+ years, on the career fair side of it. I am fairly new to the Recruiting/Staffing side of it and am considering on taking a position as a Business Development Manager for an IT Staffing Agency. I wanted to hear some feedback from those that use staffing agencies: Are they helpful with your recruiting needs? Have your needs/usage of agencies increased/decreased due to the downturn in employment? For those in the industry, how has business been? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

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Permalink Reply by Nate Fischer on April 6, 2009 at 3:33pm

Business is what you make of it, and until employers learn how to write job descriptions, and candidates learn how to write resumes, there will always be a place for staffing agencies/independent recruiters. . .

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Permalink Reply by Jerry Albright on April 6, 2009 at 4:05pm

I would be extra careful of jumping in to a "business development" role for any staffing agency right now Jason. The reason is simple: there is not much business to "develop".

Most agencies are open to giving any "reasonable" person a shot at bringing in business right now. I wouldn't suggest it. Of course I could put on my rose colored glasses and tell you to give it a shot! I'm sure you'll hear plenty of that...........but not from me.

It is a very screwy time in staffing. Not a great time to learn the ropes.

Good luck!

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Permalink Reply by Jason Nierras on April 6, 2009 at 11:05pm

Thanks Jerry and Nate. I do appreciate the feedback.

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Permalink Reply by Dan Nuroo on April 7, 2009 at 6:55am

Gotta go with Jerry on this one. Of course it depends on the company, however, most agencies are going to be dollar driven, esp if you are a BD. From what I see there isn't a lot of business to develop as Jerry said, and a lot of companies like mine, would prefer to do it in house if they possibly can.

That said these things go in cycles, and if the company you are talking to are going to invest in you, and give you time and guidance, so that when the upturn happens you are well placed.... I say go for it. However, remember Recruiting is Sales, bottomline. You will be accountable on delivery and revenue generation, so I think my first last statement of investing etc.. is highly unlikely.

Goodluck

Jerry Albright said:

I would be extra careful of jumping in to a "business development" role for any staffing agency right now Jason. The reason is simple: there is not much business to "develop".

Most agencies are open to giving any "reasonable" person a shot at bringing in business right now. I wouldn't suggest it. Of course I could put on my rose colored glasses and tell you to give it a shot! I'm sure you'll hear plenty of that...........but not from me.

It is a very screwy time in staffing. Not a great time to learn the ropes.

Good luck!