Because you deserve more than a copy-pasted job alert
Whether you’re actively job hunting or just quietly exploring your options, working with a job placement agency can be a total game changer. A great recruiter won’t just help you find a job—they’ll help you find the right one.
But not all agencies are created equal. Some will treat you like a partner. Others… more like a number in their CRM.
At Matte Placements, we believe in honest partnerships and meaningful matches. So if you’re considering working with a recruiter or placement agency, here are the top 10 questions you should ask—to make sure you’re getting the support and transparency you deserve.
1. “What industries and roles do you specialize in?”
Not every agency is a one-size-fits-all. Some focus on tech. Others on creative. Some are great at entry-level placements, while others thrive in executive search.
Why it matters:
You want to work with an agency that knows your industry inside and out—and has real connections within it.
2. “Do you work with job seekers directly, or mostly with companies?”
Some agencies are entirely client-driven (focused on filling roles for companies), while others are more candidate-focused and hands-on with career support.
Why it matters:
It helps set expectations. Are they proactively marketing you to companies? Or matching you with jobs they’ve already been hired to fill?
3. “What’s your process for getting to know candidates?”
Do they take the time to understand your values, work style, and long-term goals—or do they just skim your resume and send you off?
Why it matters:
The best placements come from real conversations—not quick keyword matching.
4. “Will you help me improve my resume or interview skills?”
A great agency won’t just forward your resume. They’ll help polish it, prep you for interviews, and give you honest feedback.
Why it matters:
Support like this can be the difference between being overlooked… and getting hired.
5. “What companies do you typically work with?”
You don’t need names (although transparency is a plus), but you do want a sense of the industries, sizes, and types of companies in their network.
Why it matters:
It tells you if their employer partners align with your values, growth goals, and preferred work environment.
6. “How do you handle candidate confidentiality?”
If you’re currently employed and job hunting discreetly, this one is huge.
Why it matters:
You want to make sure they won’t share your name or resume without your permission.
7. “What’s your placement success rate—or how do you measure success?”
This question gives you insight into how well the agency actually matches people with the right jobs—and how seriously they take your goals.
Why it matters:
It shows you whether they’re focused on filling roles fast, or filling roles well.
8. “Will I be working with one recruiter or a whole team?”
Some agencies assign a single point of contact. Others might rotate recruiters based on openings.
Why it matters:
You’ll want to know how consistent your communication and experience will be.
9. “How do you stay in touch after a placement?”
Do they check in after you’ve started a new role? Or do they ghost you the minute you sign the offer?
Why it matters:
The best agencies see placements as the beginning of a relationship—not the end.
10. “Do you charge job seekers for your services?”
Spoiler alert: legit placement agencies never charge candidates. If they do, it’s a red flag.
Why it matters:
You should be the one getting paid—not the one paying.
Bonus Tip: Ask Yourself, “Do I Feel Seen?”
Sometimes, it’s less about what’s said and more about how it’s said. Did the recruiter listen? Were they honest? Did they get excited about your potential?
At Matte Placements, we believe job searching shouldn’t feel like you’re doing it alone. We take the time to get to know you—your goals, your quirks, your non-negotiables—and we never push roles that don’t align with what you actually want.
Because at the end of the day, you’re not just looking for a job. You’re building a life.
Need a recruiter who actually listens?
Let’s talk. At Matte Placements, we don’t just place resumes—we place people.
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