What are the benefits of getting a job through a recruiting agency vs inquiring the employer directly?

Question

I recently saw a job posted on both the employer's website and recruiting agencies'. While the agencies were trying to be employer anonymous, the job description there matches the employers', so I have no doubt that they were refering the same position. Should I apply to the employer directly or talk to the recruiting agency (s)?

Answer 1

Most direct positions will pay you salary...no paid overtime

Most Contract angencies will pay you hourly ...paid overtime

Then when company wants to hire you direct from contract, you can negotiate loss of overtime hours in your new salary pay.

Answer 2

If it is a smaller company, i would suggest go to them directly. If it is a big company, go through the agency because they can get your resume to the right person/hiring manager.

Answer 3

The company is paying the recruiter.  If you get the job through the recruiter you *may* have to sign an agreement that says if you stay less than a year, you have to pay the company back for the cost of using the recruiter.

That said, a job I held for more than 10 years was gotten solely due to the recruiter.  He suggested the job, talked me into interviewing, coached me and convinced both the company and me that I would be a good fit even though I didn't quite meet the position description.  I was assigned to the guy who fought hardest to *not* hire me....

Had I applied for this job directly with the company I would *never* have gotten it.