Provisional Blog

Tired of weeding through resumes from dozens of unqualified, inexperienced applicants? Dealing with a bad hiring decision? Need a top performer, but don’t have the time to source, screen, and recruit?

If you’re dealing with problems like these, then it’s probably time to hire a staffing firm. But, since not all firms are created equal, how can you find one that’s right for you? Here are five steps:

Step #1: Research

Tap into your network of business contacts and ask them for recommendations for a reputable Northwest staffing firm. After you’ve compiled a list of possible staffing firms in the Northwest, then do some research online. Check out their company websites. See if there are any online reviews written about them – either by other companies, or by candidates who have worked with the staffing firm. (You can learn a lot about a staffing firm by how they treat their candidates.)

In addition, make sure that the staffing firm is a good fit for you. Even if a particular firm came highly recommended from a friend, if that firm specializes in temporary staffing, and you’re only looking to fill full-time, permanent positions, then they may not be right for you.

Step #2: Start asking questions.

After Step #1, you should have a decent list of Northwest staffing firms. Now it’s time to call them, one by one, and start asking some questions. For example, find out what their process is for qualifying a candidate, learn about their fee structure, and ask if they have experience in your particular industry and if they offer any satisfaction guarantees.

Step #3: Make sure you’re clear about your needs.

Be sure to tell the staffing firm exactly what kind of help you need. For instance, do you need temporary employees to meet a seasonal peak in demand? Do you only need full-time employees? Or a mix of both? Do you have other needs, such as payrolling? Also, be sure to inform the staffing firm about any unique needs you may have for hiring, such as requiring a federal background check.

Step #4: Invite potential staffing firms on site.

Ask someone from each staffing firm to visit your company. They will be able to experience your corporate culture first hand and, as a result, gain a better understanding of your needs and determine whether they can meet them.

Step #5: Ask for references.

You wouldn’t hire an employee without checking references, right? (At least we hope not!) Similarly, don’t commit to a certain staffing firm without getting references first. Speaking with other companies that have worked with the staffing firm in the past is invaluable.

Hiring top performing employees is a challenge. Hiring a staffing firm that can meet your needs can seem impossible. But by following these five steps, you’re sure to find a firm that’s right for you. And, if you’d like to add Provisional to your list of potential Northwest staffing firms, please let us know. We’re happy to meet with you to discuss your needs and determine a staffing solution that’s a fit for you.