5 Red Flags

5 Red Flags (& Solutions!) that a Potential or Current Staffing Agency Isn't Benefiting You

1. Awkward Sales Process: Did your salesperson seem unprepared to speak with you? Did they struggle to answer your questions? Most importantly, did they let you speak? An unprepared salesperson does not understand the fundamentals of their staffing agency. A good salesperson should distinguish themselves from the many staffing salespeople you see weekly. If they falter in answering your inquiries, it indicates a fundamental misalignment with their offerings. A salesperson who monotonously reads from a script likely isn't genuinely interested in your specific needs, and the agency they represent may feel the same way.

(Solution) Ask plenty of questions. Inquire about matters you are already familiar with, as well as those you are not. Ask questions relevant to your industry. This will reveal whether they have researched adequately. A good salesperson will reciprocate by asking you questions, as they need to learn from you to serve your needs effectively.

2. Pricing Transparency: Pricing is a significant part of the staffing equation. Though it shouldn't be your only consideration, it's undeniably important. When you receive your final pricing structure, is it significantly higher or lower than competitors? What value are you receiving for your investment? Sometimes, a very low price indicates cuts elsewhere, and conversely, a premium price may require scrutiny regarding what benefits you're receiving.

(Solution) Don’t hesitate to inquire about what informs their pricing model. What additional services do they offer beyond labor? Are they providing extra support to both you and their workforce? It's essential to consider not just costs to your company, but also how employees are treated compared to other agencies you've consulted. This helps ensure a satisfied workforce with lower turnover rates. Additionally, question any higher pricing structures and clarify what you are getting for your investment!

3. Unrealistic Promises: Every staffing agency aims to meet all customer needs, but some requests are inherently more challenging to fulfill. Be cautious of any agency that guarantees everything with minimal turnaround. If you're looking for a highly specialized role and the agency promises immediate access to a qualified candidate, be wary! They might be over-promising and under-delivering.

(Solution) Be skeptical of any agency that assures guaranteed results within an unreasonable timeframe. Rather than relying on promises, inquire about their process, timeline, and criteria for sourcing candidates. A reputable staffing agency prioritizes quality over speed and maintains realistic expectations about achievable outcomes.

4. Poor Communication: If the agency is hard to reach, slow to respond, or appears uninterested in understanding your staffing needs, it may signal inadequate customer service and a lack of commitment. If they are slow to address existing workforce issues, it's a significant red flag that they may not take your business seriously. Regardless of your company's size, they should treat you with professionalism and respect.

(Solution) A lack of communication can be a deal breaker. If you notice communication issues, it's crucial to clarify your expectations promptly. Define your response time requirements and the best way to reach the agency when necessary. In emergencies—whether staffing or medical—it's essential to know you can make contact and receive a swift response. If this problem persists, it may be time to consider other options.

5. Little or No Vetting Process: Most staffing agencies in your area typically draw from the same labor pool. If you find the quality of candidates lacking or experiencing high turnover rates, this may indicate that the agency isn't adequately vetting their candidates.

(Solution) There is a suitable candidate for every job, but not every person is suitable for every role. While many local agencies pull from the same labor pool, their responsibility is to select the most qualified individuals. Sending poorly qualified candidates reflects an agency's failure to support your partnership's success. Ask the agency to clarify their vetting process and how it relates to your specific business needs. If you require background checks, drug tests, or E-Verify, ask your agency for evidence that these requirements are being met. A robust vetting process leads to better matches and fewer hiring mistakes.