Why Some Small Businesses Succeed Where Others Fail

Depending on which studies and statistics you look at, the average person will change careers anywhere from five to seven times throughout the years before retiring. Sometimes this will be a career change in the same industry. Sometimes it will be moving into a completely different field.

The reasons for job changing are just as varied. Sometimes the change is an upward move for more money, more responsibility, and better benefits. Sometimes a change is a lateral move chosen for a better working environment or more family-friendly hours. And sometimes, an employee in one industry realizes he simply doesn't feel passionate about what he is doing, she fell into a field by accident, or they have finally completed their schooling and are ready to enter their chosen field of study.

Whatever the reason, changing careers can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. There are a lot of unknowns to contend with, ranging from worries over age to making a wage that you're accustomed to. Consulting an employment agency could be the answer to help you gain your footing in a new industry. Here are two things they can do for you when you are looking to break into a new field.

Insider Industry Information

Who better than an employment agency to get the lowdown on a specific company in your area or a new-to-you industry in general.  An employment agency has the inside information on what a company is looking for in a prospective employee. Many corporations and businesses contract with employment agencies, even if they have their own in-house human resources staff. It's often less expensive for a business to have an employment agency do the initial applicant screening, background checks, and employment testing. Additionally, some companies prefer to hire a temp first. This allows the company to "try before they buy," so to speak. If you are an employee of the employment agency, they don't have to enroll you into their benefits programs or pay you a company-specific rate. This is an advantage to the company, but it can also be an advantage to you if you have relatively little documentable experience in a particular field and are looking to get your foot in the door.

Job Advice

An employment agency wants you to get hired; that's how they get paid. Consequently, many good agencies are willing to go above and beyond to help you. They may hold mock interviews with you, give you resume advice, advise you on the proper wardrobe, and recommend classes they may help you meet your goals. They can also help you build your professional network by developing industry contacts at tradeshows, conferences, and other avenues.