Finding a job in Alberta these days is tougher than it's been in a while.

Many people are turning to staffing agencies looking for help in their job search, but that's lead to a number of scam operations looking to prey on those in need of work.

Sharlene Massie is the owner of "about staffing" and says the first thing job seekers need to do is make sure the company they want to deal with is accredited and licensed.

"The Alberta Government is pretty strict about that and as an owner of an agency, you have to go through some rigorous, different criteria in order to make sure they're secure. Because we are taking people's personal information."

Massie also says any head hunter, or staffing company that asks you for money, is a huge red flag, that you should run away from.

She says agencies aren't allowed to charge employees for finding work of any kind, it's illegal to charge money to any candidate to find them work.

The Better Business Bureau and Massie have some tips for those looking for work:

Here's how to choose a trustworthy staffing agency:

  • Identify your objective as a job seeker. Whether you're in need of temporary work in between jobs or looking for a full-time, permanent position, knowing exactly what your professional needs are will assist you in choosing the best recruitment agency.
  • Check licensing. In Alberta, employment/staffing/recruitment agencies must carry an Employment Agency License. If the organization is not properly licensed, it could be a red flag.
  • Don't hand over your money. Employment agencies are prohibited from charging or collecting fees from job-seekers. Just like a legitimate employer will not ask you to pay for a job, neither will a legitimate employment agency.
  • Does the staffing agency specialize in your field? Some agencies only focus on recruiting for office managers, receptionists and other administrative skills.
  • Look for agencies with industry specific training.. Some agencies place highly skilled professionals in short or long-term contracts in industries like engineering and marketing. Executive search firms specialize in the recruitment and placement of corporate executives.
  • Ask for specifics. An agency that has a specific position matching your qualifications is worth pursuing immediately. Recruitment agencies that interview large numbers of candidates in the event of a future possibility are less likely to find you a job right away. Also ask about their job-placement track record to measure their overall success rate.

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