From my job-searching experience, Manpower is one of the best recruitment agencies. What I like about this agency is that they are very professional and efficient, not to mention large, working internationally and serving many good companies.

When you first come to Manpower you will be asked to fill out their application form and, if you are applying for an office job, go through computer tests that will evaluate your knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The tests may take several hours, but if you have a working knowledge of these computer programs, it should not be that long. I found most of the assignments easy to understand and perform.

With your test results, resume, and personal preferences on file, Manpower will begin their search on your behalf. When they have something that fits your profile, they will contact you, and if you are interested in the position an interview with the potential employer will be arranged. Manpower always remains a part of the process, working as a link between you and the company. They will ask you how the interview went and what your impression was; they will ask the same things the employer as well.

If the employer chooses not to hire you, you will always know the reason, which may help to adjust something in your presentation of yourself and improve your chances in the future. You will never be left in the dark, wondering whether the company will call you back or whether they have already hired someone else.

Unlike some other recruitment agencies I have dealt with, Manpower does not need to be “bugged” all the time. You don’t have to keep calling and reminding them that you are still looking for a job: they are doing their work, and if there is something that matches you, you will get a call. They are also good at respecting your preferences. If you tell them that you are not interested in temporary or part time work, they will not bother you with such offers hoping to change your mind.

If you get a job with Manpower’s help, the agency will have their commission paid to them by the employer (a percentage of your salary) for a certain amount of time. In my case, it was for one year. After that you can be re-hired by the company directly, without the agency in between, and thus increase your pay.