What does it mean if you go into an agency for one job, and leave talking about another?

A while ago I received an email from one of my readers.

She went into an agency about one job and ended up discussing three jobs with three different consultants.

She did not end up discussing the role that she applied for and wanted to know if the job actually existed.

This scenario happens all the time. I can think of at least five reasons as to why:

1)  The job did exist. But other agencies were also working it. So the time you visited the agency it was almost filled. The consultant skipped over it and wanted to help you out with other opportunities.

2)  The job “sort of” existed. There was a job, but the job was nowhere near the agency’s exclusive property.

They may, for example, have called the company as part of a marketing drive. The client has talked about a job and then said “if you can find someone send them in.” The agency then puts a quick advertisement up. Enter you.

3)  The consultant interviewed you and decided that you were not a good match for the job, but you were a good candidate. They had other jobs on their books that you may want.

4)  The consultants love you, want to place you, and are falling all over themselves to get you into their clients.

5)  Scenario 4) but the consultants neglected to talk to each other, so you end up confused. You would be surprised at how common this is.

The thing to remember here that in any scenario you have the right to pursue the role you want.

If you think you’re being sold to, or even if you’re not, you need to do your own due diligence on a role.

Ask as many questions as you need to ask to make the right decision for yourself.  It is in the agency’s best interest that you are a long term match for that company. Their reputation is at stake if you leave the job too early.

Tagged as: Recruitment consultants, secrets from recruitment consultants