Choosing A Teaching Agency: The Do's & Dont's
Whether you register with one, two or ten agencies, choosing the right company (specifically for you) can prove to be both time-consuming and testing. Whatever you decide, it cannot be underestimated how important it is to work with individuals that understand your objectives and can meet them, so if you’re new to an area or are embarking on a new career in the supply industry, we recommend you read the following tips:
The interview process
Most good agencies will take the time to give you a call, and arrange for you to come into the office so they can get to know you a bit better. Not only does this give them a chance to meet you in the flesh but for you to see what they're about too. If there's little communication and just a few exchanges via email, it would suggest that they'll continue to treat you as just a number. Go for a company that impresses you from the very beginning, first impressions are everything after all.
Know your stuff
Regardless of who you go with, each and every one of them should be experts in their field, so if you need CV or career advice and they can’t give it to you, then you know you need to start looking at a different agency. Ask them all about what they do and what they pride themselves on. Research the reviews and read all about them on their website. Some agencies claim they "own" certain locations while others spread themselves out all over the country. If you are interested in living in a particular area, ensure that your agency deals with nearby schools.
Around the clock
Fallen ill or has something unexpected happened that means you can't work? Make sure you're able to contact your employers whatever the hour so that nobody is in a predicament the following day.
Presence
Once a recruitment agency places a candidate, they shouldn’t disappear, they should regularly check in with you and help out with teething problems. Teaching in different schools in different locations can be stressful at the best of times, so you need to be able to call them if you want to give feedback.
It's All About You
After registering, you will most likely be communicating with your agency on a regular basis (especially if you are wanting day-to-day supply teaching) so it is vital that you go with a company that you feel you can communicate well and comfortably with. Check that they know you by your first name and answer all of your questions, whatever they may be. Make sure they are friendly even if you don't want to do the work they are offering and that they have your interests in mind when filling the days.
No Pushing
If the agencies pushes you to do everything and anything, it is very likely that they don't have your best interests at heart. It's okay not to want to travel an hour to a school and it's perfectly fine to say no when you're full of the flu or have an emergency. If you're dreading the call before it's even come through then the agency you're with is not for you. Don't let it put you off though, they aren't all the same... promise.
Remember, this agency will be finding you work and helping you pay the bills. A good agency is one that you can build a relationship with and one that you feel has your interests at heart, so make sure you tick off the boxes before registering. For more information and good bit of advice, contact one of the Staffroom team today!