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Employment Firm Workers


Outlook

Employment Prospects

Employers

Private employment firms and government agencies are the major employers of employment consultants, clerks, and interviewers and the other subspecialties of employment firm workers. About 16 percent of the 625,700 human resources specialists in the United States work in the employment services industry.

Starting Out

If you have a bachelor's degree in personnel administration or a related field, you can apply directly to employment firms for jobs. College and university career services offices can be helpful in supplying leads. If you are interested in working for a government agency, you must pass a civil service test. Openings in the government are usually listed with the Office of Personnel Management. High school graduates may apply for entry-level jobs as employment clerks or personnel assistants, but these positions increasingly require a college degree.

Entry-level workers are usually trained on the job or in formal training programs, where you learn how to classify jobs and interview applicants.

Advancement Prospects

After trainees have mastered the basic personnel tasks, they are assigned to specific areas, such as personnel recruitment. In time, skilled workers may become department heads or office managers. A few highly skilled employees may become top executives with employment firms, or open their own firms. Advancement may also be achieved by moving into a higher position in another firm. Keep in mind, though, that some types of advancement may require an advanced degree in human resources or a related field.

Tips for Entry

Land an entry-level job at an employment firm to learn about the field and make valuable industry contacts.

Become certified in order to show employers that you have met the highest standards established by your industry.

Talk to employment firm workers about their careers. Ask them for advice on preparing for and entering the field.