Creating a Business Partnership with a Consulting Services Agency
When making your selection of a contract service firm, look for an one that:

• Takes complete responsibility for all recruiting and administration.
• Has account managers who understand technical requirements.
• Already has prestigious, satisfied clients.
• Supplies experienced, professional, and technically skilled contractors.
• Is an expert in all facets of contract labor from recruiting to labor law compliance.
• Is aware of new employment regulations and changing legal definitions.
• Ensures that they and their contractors adhere to the highest level of business ethics.
• Is a member of the appropriate professional associations.

Defining the Contract Position
A key to ensuring that you find the best contractor possible is by clearly specifying the position. You should invest the time with the contract service agency to create a thorough understanding of the details within a contract agreement. When hiring a contractor, as in hiring a permanent employee, the more specific you are, the greater your chance of successfully filling the position. Critical information includes:

• Job title and reporting structure.
• Description of overall project and specific tasks to be performed.
• Specific skills and technical expertise required.
• Previous work experience and education required.
• Start date and expected duration of the contract.
• Work hours and special equipment required

Candidate Selection and Placement
Another very important aspect of the selection process is reserving specific blocks of your time to review resumes and interview candidates. A well-organized process can minimize the overall time you need to spend, maximizing your likelihood of finding the right contractor.

It is the responsibility of the contract service firm to assist you by conducting the recruiting necessary to attract the best available candidates. They should phone-screen and interview the contractors, check references and present only well-qualified candidates to you. After you have inter-viewed the candidates and have made your selection, it is the responsibility of the contract service company to negotiate and finalize all arrangements with the contractor.