changing agents - is it possible

[darrenb]

I just interviewed for a contract, client was gung-ho, basically said I was the perfect fit.

Now the agent is trying to reduce my rate to lower than what I agreed with them. They have been phoning me all day, basically pleading with me not to lose the contract.

In frustration I phoned the client. It turns out the agent has been lying to both sides shamelessly about the figures. They are really trying to milk this for a margin of up to a hundred pounds more than they claim, taking advantage of the strong need on both sides.

Question: is the client absolutely tied to this agent now? Is there any way we can get free and use a different agent? It's frustrating that the agent can basically keep us apart until we agree to their huge margin.

[Liability]

I just interviewed for a contract, client was gung-ho, basically said I was the perfect fit.

Now the agent is trying to reduce my rate to lower than what I agreed with them. They have been phoning me all day, basically pleading with me not to lose the contract.

In frustration I phoned the client. It turns out the agent has been lying to both sides shamelessly about the figures. They are really trying to milk this for a margin of up to a hundred pounds more than they claim, taking advantage of the strong need on both sides.

Question: is the client absolutely tied to this agent now? Is there any way we can get free and use a different agent? It's frustrating that the agent can basically keep us apart until we agree to their huge margin.

I client generally has the upper hand unless its a big outfit.

Last thing they want is the client to terminate with them, and even remove other contractors off site.

If they hae found out about their antiques - I am sure they are already not impressed. A call from HR from clientco to the Agency telling them what to do is generally the best way to get this resolved.

[Clarky]

Have you signed anything? Have they signed anything?

If no to both, then you could just go direct... not exactly ethical, (but then when have agencies been ethical?) and you never know what they've agreed in terms of small print hidden in email.

I've done it once... and 3 months later the pimp called up noticing it was on my CV and tried to bill the clientco. The clientco just laughed at the pimp down the phone and heard nothing more!

[DS23]

If they hae found out about their antiques....

brilliant. i love it.