Recruitment agencies: their importance in the Portuguese employment market
Posted at 18/09/2023
Portugal, like many other countries, has a labor market that is constantly changing. With a high demand for jobs and great competitiveness, recruitment agencies have emerged as intermediaries between professionals looking for opportunities and companies looking for talent to fill their vacancies.
If you're looking for work or if you're a recruiter, it's essential to understand how recruitment agencies work and what their role is in the Portuguese labor market. The main purpose of employment agencies is to connect companies that are hiring people to work with suitable candidates to fill the available positions. Employment agencies have an extensive network of contacts and knowledge about the needs of companies in different sectors. Generally speaking, employment agencies offer a range of services for both companies and candidates.
But why should a company use the services of a recruitment agency? The services available are varied and can include:
- Recruitment processes and consultancy
- Selection processes - CV analysis
- Selection processes - Interviews and tests
- Selection processes - Checking references
For candidates, the services offered by employment agencies include:
- Professional counselling
- Access to job offers
- Preparation for interviews
These companies are here to stay and are transforming the labor market, particularly in Portugal. Why? They help companies find qualified professionals who fit their specific needs, reducing the time and costs involved in recruitment. In addition, employment agencies facilitate access to job opportunities for candidates, especially those who face difficulties in finding work. They offer counselling and support in the job search, broadening perspectives and connecting them to companies that often cannot be reached otherwise.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT EMPLOYMENT AGENCY?
When choosing an employment agency in Portugal, it's important to consider a few key factors. Firstly, check the agency's reputation by analyzing its experience in the market and its success rate in placing candidates. You can do this through referrals from friends, by searching online or by consulting feedback from other candidates and companies.
You can also evaluate the types of services the agency offers. Since employment agencies are not all the same, make sure you choose one that offers the services you need, such as recruitment for your sector or appropriate career counselling. It's also important to check that the agency has links with the companies you're interested in working for. Choose an agency that prioritizes personalized customer service. An effective employment agency should be responsive and professional in its interactions, providing support and guidance throughout the process.
THE NEW TRENDS
The labor market in Portugal is constantly evolving and a good employment agency is one that can adapt to new challenges and trends.
Focus on digitalization: Agencies are increasingly focusing on digital platforms to advertise their vacancies, receive CVs and hold online interviews.
Focus on competences: With the changes in the labor market, agencies are paying more attention to the so-called soft skills of candidates and those who offer a greater ability to adapt to different contexts.
Increased flexibility: Agencies are increasingly offering flexible working options, such as remote working or temporary contracts, in response to the new needs of candidates and companies.
Don't forget, employment agencies in Portugal play a leading role in the labor market by facilitating the connection between companies and qualified candidates. They offer a variety of services, adapting to current needs and trends. Whether you're a candidate looking for a job or a company in need of the best talent for its team, relying on an employment agency can make all the difference in achieving your goals.
