The 'Test' conundrum

[Agent]

I have no problem giving references directly to clients and I actually have done many times.

When you're working through an agency, who exactly do you think is your client? Your outlook is all wrong. The agency is contracting you for THEIR client, it's a simple thing that many IT Contractors struggle with. You have NO contract with OUR client.

[jmo21]

When you're working through an agency, who exactly do you think is your client? Your outlook is all wrong. The agency is contracting you for THEIR client, it's a simple thing that many IT Contractors struggle with. You have NO contract with OUR client.

OK I'll bite....

Most of you lot say the references are because the client wants them.

[gables]

When you're working through an agency, who exactly do you think is your client? Your outlook is all wrong. The agency is contracting you for THEIR client, it's a simple thing that many IT Contractors struggle with. You have NO contract with OUR client.

OK I'll bite....

Most of you lot say the references are because the client wants them.

And, you'd (Agent) will presumably be happy with glowing references from my previous clients for e.g. HAYS, Parity because obviously their end client is not my client

[Agent]

And, you'd (Agent) will presumably be happy with glowing references from my previous clients for e.g. HAYS, Parity because obviously their end client is not my client

Sure, references confirming dates of assignment, job title etc are fine form the last agency. If my client wants references from the end client of your last project then that's what they'll ask for.

[Agent]

OK I'll bite....

Most of you lot say the references are because the client wants them.

Maybe it is!

[LondonManc]

Sure, references confirming dates of assignment, job title etc are fine form the last agency. If my client wants references from the end client of your last project then that's what they'll ask for.

Which is none of their business, any more than you're at liberty to disclose your margin.

[Agent]

Which is none of their business, any more than you're at liberty to disclose your margin.

Ha, true, I can disclose my margins if I needed/wanted to (and I do have open margins with some clients) but only if I want the project work. Same goes for references I guess, if you want the work you meet the demands, if you don't then you don't.

[northernladuk]

Same goes for references I guess, if you want the work you meet the demands, if you don't then you don't.

It depends on whether it's a demand from the client or a sly trick for sales contacts from snake oil agents. I'll be betting it's the latter in a high percentage rate of times. So I'll generally opt for not meeting the demands which won't make an ounce of difference to getting the gig.

[Agent]

It depends on whether it's a demand from the client or a sly trick for sales contacts from snake oil agents. I'll be betting it's the latter in a high percentage rate of times. So I'll generally opt for not meeting the demands which won't make an ounce of difference to getting the gig.

You're probably right, alas the circle of recruitment continues. Like I mentioned in another post - a lead you give up today is a contract you secure tomorrow. You gotta give a little to get some back.

[gables]

You're probably right, alas the circle of recruitment continues. Like I mentioned in another post - a lead you give up today is a contract you secure tomorrow. You gotta give a little to get some back.

Best if that works both ways I find