A staffing agency interview works differently from a typical job interview. Instead of interviewing for one opening, you are meeting a recruiter who will match you with the positions that fit your skills, schedule and goals, sometimes on the same day. The better prepared you are, the faster that match can happen.
Use this checklist to walk in ready.
1. Identification and work authorization
Every employer in the United States has to verify each new hire’s identity and eligibility to work. Bringing the right original documents to your interview means your paperwork can be completed on the spot instead of holding up your start date. Common examples include:
- A valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID card
- Your Social Security card
- A U.S. passport
- A Permanent Resident Card, or an Employment Authorization Document with a photograph
Tip: Bring originals, not photocopies or pictures on your phone. The full list of accepted documents is published by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on its Form I-9 Acceptable Documents page. If you are unsure what to bring, call us before your interview.
2. Your work history
Your recruiter will ask about the jobs you have held, so have the details ready rather than trying to remember them in the moment:
- Company names, cities and approximate start and end dates
- Your job titles and main duties
- Equipment you can operate, such as forklifts, pallet jacks or scanners, and any certifications
- A resume if you have one. It isn’t required, but it speeds things up
3. References
Have the names and phone numbers of two or three people who can speak to your work, such as former supervisors or coworkers. Let them know in advance that they may get a call.
4. Your availability and preferences
Staffing agencies can often place you faster when they know exactly what you are looking for. Think about these before you arrive:
- Which days and shifts you can work, including nights or weekends
- How far you can travel, and whether you have reliable transportation
- Your pay expectations
- Whether you want temporary work, temp-to-hire, or a long-term position
5. How you want to get paid
At Cody Staffing, all employees have access to weekly pay by Direct Deposit or a Rapid Pay card, at no cost to you. If you would like direct deposit, bring your bank’s routing number and your account number so it can be set up right away.
Interview-day tips
- Arrive a few minutes early and allow time to fill out paperwork.
- Dress for the work you want. Clean, neat clothes are fine for most warehouse and production roles; if you are going straight to a job site, bring closed-toe shoes.
- Be honest about your experience and availability. It helps your recruiter find a job you’ll actually want to keep.
- Ask questions about pay, schedules, and what the first day will look like.
- Keep your phone on. Placements can move fast, and you may get a call about a position the same day.
Want to know what happens after you apply? Read about the Cody Staffing hiring process.