Starting Work Through a Recruitment Agency: What You Need to Know – Sunny Coast Jobs

Starting Work Through a Recruitment Agency: What You Need to Know

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Starting Work Through a Recruitment Agency: What You Need to Know

If you’re new to working with a recruitment agency, welcome! At Sunny Coast Jobs, we work with a wide range of industries and employers—and that means more opportunities for you. But it also means there are a few things you should know about how recruitment agency work operates, what’s expected of you, and how to give yourself the best chance at success.

Here’s what to expect when entering recruitment agency work.

Two Ways In: Apply for a Role or Register for the Talent Pool

Your journey with a recruitment agency usually begins in one of two ways:

  1. Applying for a specific job we’ve advertised
  2. Registering to join our talent pool for upcoming roles that suit your experience

Either way, we’ll review your skills and availability and—with your permission—we may recommend you for other roles that match your profile. One application could open the door to multiple opportunities.

Think of the First Meeting as an Interview—But Broader

When applying for a specific role, our process is similar to a first-round interview with a direct employer. The key difference? We’re experienced at identifying long-term fit, not just for one role, but across many employers and industries.

This means:

  • We understand nerves—we see beyond them
  • We’re assessing your fit across multiple opportunities
  • We’ll be open and transparent if we think you’d be better suited to something else

Registrations Focus on Who You Are, Not Just What You Do

If you’re registering for casual, temp, or future work, our interview with you will be broad. We’ll talk about:

  • Your career goals
  • Availability (days, times, location, type of work)
  • Your history, strengths, and experience

We also need to know: can you accept a shift at short notice—like 5PM Friday for a 7AM Saturday start? If that won’t work for you, that’s absolutely fine—but tell us upfront so we can match you to the right roles.

  • Honesty = better outcomes for everyone.
  • A big red flag is saying “yes to anything” in interview but turning down every offer. Be real about your boundaries—we respect that.

Ask Questions—It’s Expected and Appreciated

During the registration or interview process, ask questions like:

  • What do I need to wear?
  • What do I need to bring (e.g. tools, PPE, RSA card, waiter’s friend)?
  • What are the shift hours, breaks, and workplace expectations?
  • What else do I need to know about the site or role?

Being curious and prepared shows professionalism—and sets you up to succeed.

Timing Matters (Especially Early On)

Here’s the golden rule:
Late is late. On time is late. Early is on time.

When you’re starting a new assignment—especially in the first week—there may be:

  • Site inductions
  • Supervisor introductions
  • Building/ward/office navigation

Arriving at the start time might actually make you late by the time you’re settled in. Aim to be at the right place at least 15 minutes early.

Learn the Job, Even If You’ve Done Similar Work Before

Every workplace is different—even if you’ve done the same role elsewhere. Early on, take time to:

  • Ask your supervisor or co-workers if you’re doing the task correctly
  • Be open to learning site-specific processes
  • Seek feedback rather than assume

Getting feedback is your chance to improve and shows initiative. The worst outcome is hearing you were replaced because “they didn’t teach me that.”

Admin Matters Too

Yes, recruitment agencies handle the paperwork—but we still need you to:

  • Report your hours
  • Update your details
  • Confirm your shifts

Most of this can be done electronically. Finishing a shift at midnight isn’t an excuse to miss payroll deadlines—we want to pay you on time, and accurate admin is how we do it.

Respect Builds Reputations

At Sunny Coast Jobs, we treat our team members, host employers, and co-workers with respect and professionalism—and we expect the same. This means:

  • Communicating clearly
  • Being reliable
  • Treating others the way you’d like to be treated

These are simple, but powerful habits that lead to more job offers, better placements, and stronger references.

Ready to Start?

Working with a recruitment agency opens doors to flexibility, variety, and real opportunities. And at Sunny Coast Jobs, we’re here to guide you through it—with clear expectations, honest feedback, and plenty of support.

Have questions? Ready to register?
Reach out to us today—we’d love to help you take the next step in your work journey.

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