Working through a staffing agency — for some it's a tried-and-tested route to a quick start, for others it's a big unknown. How does it all actually work? What will you sign, who pays you, and what should you do if something goes wrong? Here are the answers — without unnecessary jargon.
Who Is Actually Your Employer?
This is the most frequent source of confusion. When you start through an agency, you physically work at the client company — for example, in a manufacturing plant or warehouse. But your formal employer is the agency. This means you sign the contract with the agency, your pay comes from the agency, and all the administration — contributions, sick notes, payslips — is handled by the agency.
The client company manages your day-to-day work: what you do, when you arrive, how you complete tasks. The agency handles everything else.
What the Whole Process Looks Like From the Start
- Contact and First Meeting
Send a CV or call. A consultant from the agency will get back to you, and you'll discuss what you're looking for — sector, location, desired salary. Based on this, they'll offer you specific positions - Interview
For less skilled positions (manufacturing, logistics), the interview with the agency is usually short and informal. For more specialist roles, there may also be an interview directly with the client company. - Signing the Contract
You sign the contract with the agency. Read it carefully: how long it runs, what the wage is, what the termination conditions are. A reputable agency will explain everything in advance. - Starting at the Workplace
The agency will train you — H&S, basic workplace rules. Then you start. The client company will induct you into the specific role. - Pay
Wages come from the agency, typically by the 15th of the following month. You receive the payslip by email or post.
What Conditions Are You Entitled To?
In terms of basic wages and working conditions — breaks, occupational safety, working hours — you are legally entitled to comparable treatment to permanent employees in the same position at the client company. Company benefits such as meal vouchers or bonuses are generally not available to agency employees — these are tied to a direct employment relationship. Your consultant will clarify the specific conditions for each position in advance.
What to Do if Something Goes Wrong
Is the assigned position not right for you? Do you have a problem at the workplace? Contact your consultant at the agency — that's precisely their role. You don't have to deal with it yourself with the client company. A reputable agency will investigate the situation and, where possible, propose a solution — including reassignment to a different position.
How to Recognise a Reputable Agency
- It holds a valid licence for job placement from the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MPSV)
- It explains everything in advance — the contract, the wage, the conditions
- It does not charge you any placement fees
- It has real contact details, an office, and a functioning website
- It is willing to answer your questions without pressure
Europa Union Service funguje od roku 2005 a je držitelem certifikací ISO 9001 a ISO 14001. Pokud hledáte práci v České republice nebo v zahraničí, ozvěte se — rádi vám poradíme.
