7 Tips You Should Know Before a Staffing Agency Interview

Embarking on a temp agency interview can spark a range of emotions, from excitement to nervous anticipation. For some, the prospect of an interview may stir uncertainty about current dress codes or appropriate questions to ask. Others may feel anxious about how well they’ll perform or worried about how to ace a staffing agency interview—rather than a direct interview with an employer. 

Whether it's your first professional interview with an agency like Spherion or you're re-entering the interview scene after a significant hiatus, understanding what to expect can give you the boost you need to enter the interview room with confidence. Consider this your comprehensive staffing agency interview guide, giving you the knowledge to navigate the process seamlessly, showcase your best self and, hopefully, secure the job you want.

Tip #1: Dress for success

While you don’t have to dress especially formal, you should take care to present yourself well when it comes to selecting an outfit. After all, your appearance sets the tone for the interview and forms the first impression that the interviewer has of you. When thinking of how to dress for a temp agency interview, remember that this may vary by industry and the type of role that you’re interested in, so be sure to adjust accordingly. But regardless of the type of role you’re interviewing for, make sure that your clothes are clean, pressed, and appropriate—no rips, stains, tears, slogans, or other aspects that could appear unprofessional. 

Tip #2: Prepare for some common questions ahead of time

It’s a common misconception that preparing for a staffing agency interview is significantly different from preparing for direct interviews with employers. (Another common misconception? That working with a recruiter to land a job costs money. It’s free! There's no cost for candidates to work with an expert Spherion recruiter.) Fortunately for you, this means that temp agency interview questions should be pretty similar to the kinds of questions you’d expect. To begin preparing, start by reflecting on your experiences and stories that highlight your achievements, challenges you've overcome, and your problem-solving skills. Then take a look at some common interview questions and practice answering them ahead of time. If there are any questions specific to your industry or skill set, make sure you’re prepared to answer those as well. 

Tip #3: Bring hard copies of your resume

It may sound old-school, but bringing a hard copy of your resume to an interview with a temp agency is a professional and strategic move. While the agency may have a digital copy, having a physical resume demonstrates your preparedness and attention to detail. It allows you to easily reference and highlight specific experiences during the discussion, showcasing your qualifications more effectively. Plus, the interviewer now has immediate access to your professional history without relying on digital devices, resulting in a more focused and engaging conversation about your skills and potential fit for temporary assignments.

Tip #4: Get familiar with the interview location

We think it’s smart to eliminate any potential sources of stress before your interview, which is why it can be a good idea to do a dry run of getting to the interview location the day or the week before your interview. You’ll want to figure out how to get there, if there’s usually traffic at that time that needs to be accounted for, where to park, and how much time you’ll need to allot to park and get in the door on time. If you’re interviewing in an office within a larger building, you’ll also need to determine where the office is located and how much time you’ll need to get there. This work should give you the information you need to leave at a time that ensures you arrive early to the interview location—crucial for making a good impression!

And of course, if the interview is over phone or video, you can prepare by downloading the virtual meeting program, making sure it’s up to date, and practicing logging in or setting up your audio and camera. 

Tip #5: Make sure you’re in the right frame of mind

The last thing you want is to feel stressed or anxious right before an interview, so set yourself up for success when it comes to your body and mind. Make sure you get a good night’s sleep so you’re sharp and ready to answer any questions thrown your way the next day. Before heading to your interview, have a balanced breakfast or lunch to fuel your body and keep you from feeling hungry or distracted during the interview. 

Tip #6: Make the right impression in your interview

Time for the interview! When you meet your interviewer, make eye contact, offer a firm handshake, maintain friendly eye contact, and exude positivity. Throughout the interview, try to showcase a genuine enthusiasm for the position. Practice active listening and ask insightful questions to demonstrate your engagement and interest. Make sure to showcase your certifications and, importantly, convey your willingness to learn new skills if required. After the interview, express your gratitude, thanking the recruiter or interviewer for their time.

Tip #7: Don’t forget to follow up! 

Following up after an interview is crucial as it demonstrates continued interest, gratitude, and professionalism, keeping you at the forefront of the interviewer's mind and reinforcing your enthusiasm. Send a thank-you note or email promptly, expressing appreciation for the opportunity and reiterating your interest in a placement. If you don't hear anything within a few days, don't hesitate to follow up (politely)! This shows the interviewer that you care about the position and follow through on things that matter to you.

Acing a temp agency interview is possible with the right preparation

A successful interview is not a stroke of luck; it's a result of careful preparation. By looking the part, acting with confidence, preparing for likely questions, and handling the pre- and post-interview phases effectively, you can increase your chances of leaving a lasting positive impression. With the right amount of preparation, you can confidently navigate any interview and move closer to securing the job of your dreams. Good luck!