Everything You Need to Know About Partnering with a Staffing Agency: Top FAQs for Candidates and Clients

Partnering with a staffing company can be a powerful resource, whether you’re seeking top talent to enhance your team or looking for the next step in your career. As an employee-owned staffing leader, Sterling specializes in connecting skilled candidates with clients across highly technical industries like engineering, life sciences, and technology. In this FAQ, we address common questions from candidates and clients about the benefits, processes, and unique advantages of working with a trusted staffing partner. Discover how our commitment to building lasting relationships ensures a rewarding experience for everyone we serve.

General FAQs about Staffing Agencies

• What is a staffing company, and how can it benefit my career? Staffing companies connect candidates with job opportunities suited to their skills, offering flexible, temporary (aka contract), or long-term (aka direct-hire) employment options.
• How do staffing agencies like Sterling select job candidates? Sterling follows a detailed qualification process, matching candidates to roles based on skills, experience, and cultural fit to ensure a great match for both client and candidate.
• How can partnering with a staffing company help my business? Partnering with a staffing company saves time and resources by providing access to a curated talent pool and reducing the complexity of the hiring process.
• How does Sterling differ from other staffing companies? Sterling’s employee-owned model, industry expertise (we’ve been in business since 1969), and commitment to personalized service make it unique among staffing companies.
• Why should I choose a staffing agency specializing in technical roles? Specialized staffing agencies have a deep understanding of the industry and access to highly skilled professionals suited for technical positions, enhancing placement accuracy.
• What industries does Sterling specialize in for staffing solutions? Sterling specializes in industries like Life Sciences, Utilities, Food and Beverage, Manufacturing, Technology, Automation, and Renewable Energy, focusing on highly technical roles.
• How does Sterling ensure candidate quality? Sterling uses a rigorous qualification process and an extensive proprietary database to connect clients with vetted, high-quality candidates. Sterling recruiters interview all of our candidates before submission to our clients.
• Are staffing services suitable for permanent hires? Yes, staffing companies like Sterling offer solutions for permanent roles, helping clients find qualified candidates for long-term placements

Candidate-Focused FAQs

• What are the benefits of working with a staffing company for my job search? Staffing companies provide career growth opportunities, access to exclusive roles, and personalized job search support.
• How does Sterling support my career growth? Sterling focuses on long-term relationships, matching candidates with roles that align with their career goals and skills for rewarding job experiences.
• Do I pay for Sterling’s services as a candidate? No, Sterling’s recruitment services are free for candidates; clients fund the staffing process.
• How can I apply for jobs through Sterling? Candidates can apply online through Sterling’s job portal https://jobs.sterling-engineering.com/ or contact a recruiter to discuss suitable job opportunities.
• What can I expect during the recruitment process with Sterling? Sterling’s process involves job qualification, interview preparation, and continuous engagement to ensure a smooth placement experience.
• What types of employment are available through staffing agencies? Staffing companies like Sterling offer contract, contract-to-hire, and direct-hire across technical and engineering roles across several industries, including Life Sciences, Utilities, Food and Beverage, Manufacturing, Technology, Automation, and Renewable Energy.
• Will Sterling offer support after I am placed in a job? Yes, Sterling conducts regular follow-ups and employee engagement activities, supporting candidates even after placement.
• How quickly can I find a job through a staffing agency? Placement timelines vary based on demand and role specifics, but Sterling’s efficient process often reduces the time to find a job.
• Do contract employees receive benefits? Sterling has provided industry-leading benefits for all employees since our founding in 1969. It’s what set us apart when we started, and it sets us apart today. You can learn more about our comprehensive benefits here .
• If I don’t meet all the qualifications required by a job description, should I still apply for that job? Yes. Many hiring managers are flexible on requirements as long as your skills are transferrable to the job and you’re willing to learn.\
• The pay range listed in the job description is less than what I’m targeting. Is it still worthwhile for me to apply? Yes. As long as your desired higher pay rate is reasonable, your relevant skills and experience may justify negotiating a higher pay rate than what’s listed.
• How do I address employment gaps in my resume? Be honest about gaps and focus on what you did during that time. Maybe you were volunteering, freelancing, or taking classes to acquire new skills. Explain how these experiences make you a better candidate.
• I realize that many people apply for the same job. How can I make my candidacy stand out? First, ensure that you meet the qualifications for the role. Then, tailor your resume to include all relevant experience related to the job you’re applying to. Follow up with a phone call or email letting the recruiter know that you’ve applied and expressed your interest.

Candidate-Focused FAQs

• What can I expect from Sterling’s staffing process? Sterling offers a comprehensive, multi-step process, from recruitment strategy to candidate qualification and post-placement engagement.
• Can a staffing company help me fill multiple positions quickly? Yes, with our extensive industry relationships and dedicated recruitment team, Sterling can fulfill high-volume hiring needs effectively.
• What should I consider when choosing a staffing agency for my business? Look for specialized expertise, proven client satisfaction, and a robust candidate qualification process, all of which Sterling exemplifies.
• How does Sterling measure client satisfaction in its staffing services? Sterling uses Net Promoter Scores (NPS) and satisfaction scores, consistently receiving high ratings from clients, indicating trust and successful partnerships. You can review our ratings and testimonials here .