35 Kelly Services Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Kelly Services interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. Is honesty the best policy?
How to Answer
As a recruiter or staffing professional, you will encounter some grey areas, including pay structures, fee structures, rules governing contract employees, and non-compete or non-disclosure agreements. It's vital to the reputation of Kelly Services that you abide by rules and regulations carefully and always work within the ethical lines of recruitment.
Your response can also include how honest you are with candidates regarding your clients' needs. You could also mention your transparency when closing off with candidates not chosen for the job.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I believe that honesty is always the best policy. I deliver honest news with as much empathy as possible. I also believe transparency is important in the staffing industry. I will never hold back from telling the truth when it means so much to another person to hear it. If a client does not want to move forward with a candidate, I will let them know right away and give them open feedback whenever possible. When it comes to paperwork and the legal ins and outs of supplying employment opportunities, I always abide within legal limits and regulations."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that there are known 'grey' areas in recruitment, primarily from agencies that do not present themselves in the best light. One of the reasons I applied to Kelly Services is your long-standing sterling reputation in the industry. This excellent reputation comes from being honest and forthright with candidates and clients alike, and I plan to do the same in my position at Kelly Services."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Behavioral
2. Would you take a job order from a client who was acting unethically?
How to Answer
Responsible staffing agencies like Kelly Services need to protect their reputation, including prescreening clients in various ways. A smart recruiter will look for a history of unexplained employee turnover, previous sexual harassment accusations, stories of discrimination, poor health and safety records, and consistently lousy employee reviews. When meeting with a client for the first time and brag about burning through multiple staffing agencies, this is a definite warning sign. Show the interviewer that you will never put the reputation of Kelly Services on the line to land a job order.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"First, I understand that Kelly Services is a reputable company that values the impact they make. The Kelly Talent Promise that I read about on your website emphasizes offering job candidates safe and ethical employment opportunities. In the past, I have worked for agencies that will take work from anyone and everyone. I desire to join an agency like Kelly Services with a reputation for legit clients and great job opportunities. From my research and the topics we have discussed today, it seems that our core values align nicely."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I have been trained to be selective on the clients I take on, and I would like to continue with this practice. I have an intake questionnaire that I go through with clients, so everyone goes through the same prescreening process. Then, I conduct an in-person meeting whenever possible to physically see the environment in which my successful candidate would be working. This is how I will ensure I'm working with an ethical client to maintain my personal and Kelly Service's values."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Behavioral
3. How often do you check in with your candidates after placed in a permanent role with your client?
How to Answer
Many staffing agencies will have a schedule of events when checking in with candidates after placing them with a client. These check-ins are vital as they are meant to ensure that your candidate is happy with their new placement and meeting performance expectations.
Most staffing agencies offer a free replacement to their client should a candidate not work out for the best within 90 days of their employment start. For this reason, it's best practice to have regular check-ins for the first 90 days and into the person's first year on the job. Show the interviewer that you understand the importance of this practice and that you are a diligent staffing professional.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"As a senior recruiter, I've learned that it is important to have a schedule for checking in on every single one of my permanent placements. I check in on their first day on the job and at the end of their first week. After their first week, I have a weekly check-in for the first 30 days. From then, every other week until they reach their 90 day probation period. From 90 days to year one, I schedule a monthly email. All of my candidates appreciate my diligence in ensuring they are happy with their placement. This action allows me to react to any potential situations before they become a major issue."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I believe it's best to check in on the morning of their first day and twice more during the candidate's first week. For the first 90 days, I will email or call once per week. Then, I check in monthly. These conversations are usually short. I ask questions related to expectations versus reality, their overall comfort level, and happiness with their new work environment."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Behavioral
4. What type of office set up helps you to be the most productive?
How to Answer
Some recruitment firms offer individual offices, some a work-from-home environment, and others, a bullpen style set up. As a recruiter, you may hear the word "bullpen" often. This word is slang for a workspace area filled with desks and no separating walls. Everyone works together in an open space. Think 'Wolf of Wallstreet."
Talk to the interviewer about the type of work environment you prefer, being sure not to single yourself out by speaking negatively of one particular work style over another. Overall, the interviewer will be looking for your ability to concentrate and work well despite your outside surroundings.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Being newer to my career in staffing, I see a lot of value working in an open environment where there is a lot of collaboration on projects. I am eager to learn from your talented recruiters. Could you share with me the office set up at Kelly Services?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Behavioral
5. If a temporary employee let you down regularly, what would you do?
How to Answer
Temporary employment can be a challenge to navigate, especially in industries such as warehousing and logistics. These challenges come because:
- Candidate volume and placements are high
- Wages are average but competitive
- Hours can be sporadic
- Client communication is often lacking due to shift work
Explain how you would handle a candidate that let you down regularly by being late, no-showing to their assignment, or failing assessments such as forklift driving skills. Show the interviewer that you have patience and empathy but are firm at the same time.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"At the end of the day, it's my client who needs to be happy with the temporary employees that I provide them. If I had a temp continually failing to meet expectations, I would have to let them go. Of course, as a recruiter, I want to offer employment opportunities to job seekers. But anytime we drop the ball, it can negatively impact my client's bottom line, which is never a positive situation. After all, they are paying Kelly Services to find a dependable candidate. When working with any candidate, expectations are always communicated upfront. On any offense, such as being late or not showing up, I will call the temp employee and find out what happened. I ask for open lines of communication, and if we continually miss the mark on expectations, then I need to move on and put my energy elsewhere."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I believe in setting expectations from the start. I let temporary employees know what will occur should they fail to come to work or show up for their assignment on time. For the most part, I have excellent working relationships with our temp employees. When I need to let a temp employee go, I still educate the person on work performance expectations, and I encourage them to try their best in the future."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Discovery
6. Are you comfortable making frequent calls to clients and candidates?
How to Answer
As a recruiter, you'll spend a lot of time on the phone. You'll be calling potential clients, screening candidates, doing follow-ups, responding to no-shows, checking in on employees' first day on the job, and more. The interviewer wants to know your comfort level and more about your personality.
Describe your experience making frequent calls and having thorough conversations.
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
1st Answer Example
"As a recruiter, I spend most of my day talking on the phone or communicating by email, so I'm very comfortable with it. It can be challenging when speaking with new clients, but I always do my research about the company before speaking with them, so I am somewhat knowledgeable and confident that I can assist with their job needs."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I enjoy talking to people, so I won't have a problem talking to clients on the phone. As I build my skills, I plan to build my skill in asking the right questions, so I better understand what the client needs."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Discovery
7. How much money do you want to earn in this role? What does your ideal pay structure look like?
How to Answer
Staffing and recruitment agencies all compensate differently, generally leaning toward what works best for their recruiters based on the type of recruitment they are performing.
Some of these pay structures include 100% commission, draws against commissions, full salary, a salary-commission blend, and monthly guarantees. Be upfront with the interviewer about your compensation expectations. The clearer you are, the higher the chance that you will get what you need.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I currently earn a base salary of $65,000 plus commission for overall earnings in the $105-110K range annually. My current position offers a higher base salary. However, the overall commission structure is not as generous as what you offer at Kelly Services. Overall, I would like to see a compensation package that includes health benefits, a minimum of 4 weeks' vacation time, and earning potential in the $125K+ range for my first year."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that first-year recruiters earn in the $40-50K range, often with a blend of an hourly wage plus commission on placements. I am happy with an offering in this range as this gives me room to learn and grow. Could you share with me more specifics on the overall compensation plan at Kelly Services?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Discovery
8. Why should Kelly Services hire you over our other candidates?
How to Answer
This question can be incredibly tough for job seekers to answer. This query requires you to brag about yourself on the fly while choosing compelling items from your career highlight reel.
Think about the job posting or job description and the core values of Kelly Services. Consider whether your soft and hard skills match what the company is looking for in a team member.
This question should not be used to give a generic answer like you have 'strong attention to detail.' Be confident and focus on factors that are unique to you. Use your past achievements and accolades to highlight your strengths aligned with what Kelly Services is looking for in a recruiter.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I believe you should hire me because of my proven ability to resuscitate dormant clients. I have been rewarded for being keen on business development activities and will find new accounts for Kelly Services within the first couple of weeks of employment. I am well-versed in supporting junior recruiters and will help them to uncover new and lucrative opportunities as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Other candidates may have more staffing experience; however, my background in highly competitive sports, as well as door-to-door alarm sales, makes me an excellent candidate for this sales role with Kelly Services. I know exactly how my efforts impact my team, and I am very goal-focused while being self-led."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Discovery
9. Are you a patient individual? Rate your patience level from 1-10.
How to Answer
Being a recruiter or any professional in the staffing industry requires an immense level of patience. You make many calls every day, wait for candidates to respond, and wait on contracts to be signed. Often, you will be in a significant rush to make a placement before a competing agency beats you to the punch. You will speak to hundreds of candidates every month, all with their personality quirks and potentially low levels of commitment and communication. The interviewer wants to know that you can remain confident, professional, and patient despite all of these challenges. Rate your level of patience from 1-10, and be prepared to give an example that backs your rating.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I rank my patience level an 8 out of 10. There will always be candidates, clients, and situations that test your patience, and there is always room for improvement. Recently I had a candidate back out of their accepted job offer on the morning of their start date. Rather than lose my patience, I quickly found a temp for my client and then searched for a new permanent candidate. Of course, I will not work with that candidate again, but that is simply a professional boundary and the nature of working as a recruiter. I remain professional in all situations and would never disrespect someone, or myself, for a situation like that."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"For the past year, I have worked as a temp recruiter primarily searching for laborers in the warehousing and logistics sector. As you know, the rate of candidates who no-show or do not perform well is very high in these categories. Rather than lose my patience, I keep focused on the needs of my clients and do my best to screen candidates for reliability. For this reason, I rank my patience level as a 9 out of 10."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Discovery
10. Are you willing to work outside of the regular 9-5?
How to Answer
In staffing, you may be asked to work outside of a typical Monday to Friday work week, depending on your clients and candidate needs. If you have a candidate who cannot interview during standard work hours, you may need to conduct a phone interview at 7 PM to accommodate their needs. If you do temp staffing, you may have warehouse clients who call you at 6 AM to report a worker who did not show up for their early-morning shift.
Many recruiters have their cell phones on 24/7 and check their email on weekends. Show Kelly Services that you are willing to accommodate the varying needs of your clients and candidates.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In the world of staffing, I do not expect to work a strict 40 hour per week schedule, but I also know that I'm looking for a work-life balance. As needed, I will be available to my clients and candidates. I have email on my phone and am sure to be on top of my candidates' start dates, promptly checking in with my clients even on weekends and evenings. As a recruiter, I have learned that being flexible and able to adapt are key to performing well while maintaining a good work-life balance."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In staffing, I anticipate working over 40 hours per week, especially around final deadlines, and I know my hours will not be the standard 9 to 5. While I will be flexible, there are some limits as I do value my work-life balance. Could you share with me the expectations for this role?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Discovery
11. Of the areas where Kelly Services recruits, which are you most knowledgeable?
How to Answer
It's impossible to be an expert in every job category. However, if you have worked as a generalist in the recruitment industry, you know that it's possible to have a few favorites where your performance shines!
Review the specialties that Kelly Services recruits for. Then, based on your experience and knowledge, discuss which areas you are most comfortable with. If there are categories similar to specialties you have recruited for, you can mention those as well. Just be sure to mention how candidates with similar skills and backgrounds often seek employment in both categories.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"For many years, I worked as a temp recruiter focusing solely on industrial and warehousing. For this reason, I would say that I am most knowledgeable in these areas. I can readily help your clients in the transportation and logistics industries as well. I have a firm grasp on industry jargon as well as the certifications and regulations that come with such safety-based industries."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I see that Kelly Services recruits in a variety of areas. Of these categories, sales and retail are the topics that I know best. I have worked in retail and sales and have a strong idea of the best candidates in commissioned sales jobs. With that said, I am eager to get to know other industries such as hospitality and administration as I think my skills can be easily used in those areas."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Discovery
12. Have you ever worked with a staffing agency, from a job seeker's perspective?
How to Answer
If you have ever experienced staffing from the position of a job seeker, you can understand the recruitment process from a variety of perspectives. This experience allows you to empathize with job seekers who may be nervous working with a recruiter and their clients.
Talk to the interviewer about your experience working with a staffing agency. If you do not have this experience, that is okay too! What is most important is that you show Kelly Services you have the empathy and patience needed to work with candidates who do not fully understand the process and benefits of working with a staffing agency like Kelly Services.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"A few years ago, I was headhunted into the role that I have now. This situation was my first time being on the other side of the table, and honestly, it was a bit intimidating! Even though I knew the staffing industry in and out, I was still unsure of the next steps and felt a lot of pressure to impress multiple parties. I wanted to interview well with the company and not let down the recruiter who was working so hard to place me. This experience gave me a new perspective, and now I treat candidates with even more care and concern. When I'm working with a candidate, I am clear on next steps, expectations and give them every tool possible to help them succeed."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Although I have not worked with a staffing agency as a job seeker, I completely understand how the situation could be confusing and intimidating. Job seekers are often overwhelmed and eager to find employment which can be stressful. To combat those feelings, I work closely with my candidates, and I'm always open to questions along the way. I also provide additional information such as articles, guides, and information to ensure their success through the entire recruitment process and for career development."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Knowledge
13. What is a staffing agency?
How to Answer
This question may seem as fundamental as they get, but the interviewer needs to know that you understand how staffing works. Staffing is a misunderstood industry. It will be part of your role to add clarification for clients and candidates who may not fully comprehend what you do. Briefly describe to the hiring authority what a staffing agency is, including who they help, and their primary purpose.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I come across many candidates who do not understand what a staffing agency is. I explain that a staffing agency works on behalf of other companies to help them find the best talent for their open jobs. I explain that most of my clients do not have the time to filter through hundreds or even thousands of job applications for each open job or hire in a timely fashion, so they ask for outside help. I also explain that positions can be permanent or temporary, and some agencies even offer career resources to help you reach your career goals. I have also come across businesses that are unaware of the solutions a staffing agency can offer, such as finding specialized talent, temporary positions, and diverse pools of candidates."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"A staffing agency is like an extension of a company's human resources department. When a company is too busy to keep up with their recruitment needs, a staffing agency will come in to help them source candidates, pre-screen for job skills, and conduct first interviews."
Knowledge
14. Name some reasons why a job seeker would want to work as a temp.
How to Answer
Although it may seem strange to some people, there are many reasons why a job seeker would want to work as a temporary employee. From the beginning of their career into retirement age, job seekers can all enjoy the perks of temp work. Some of these benefits include:
Flexibility - As a temp worker, you can agree to take or turn down work at your leisure. For retired people who travel a lot, temp work is excellent for seasonal needs.
Buying time - Temp workers can earn money as contractors until they find the right permanent opportunity.
Compliance with work restrictions - Temp opportunities are often better for people waiting on permanent residency or citizenship who may have federal work restrictions.
Fill gaps in resume - Temp offers job seekers the opportunity to learn new skills in various settings to expand their resume and fill gaps in employment.
Fast-track to employers - Temps are often offered a permanent position after completing their assignment if the hiring authorities are impressed with their performance.
Discuss with the interviewer why you believe some candidates would prefer to take on temporary assignments at Kelly Services.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have met many people who highly prefer working temp for various reasons. The most common reason is to build out their resume to include more skills and avoid resume gaps while they search for the perfect permanent opportunity. I have also met many semi-retired folks who temp as food samplers on weekends to supplement their retirement income. Temp is an excellent solution for many people."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked as a temp in the past. My reasoning was to earn money during the summer between university. I found this solution very beneficial as it rounded out my resume and helped me to network as well. Other people may like to temp if they want the flexibility, or if they have work restrictions due to personal circumstance."
Knowledge
15. What type of clients come to Kelly Services for our staffing services?
How to Answer
Kelly Services helps a plethora of clients, from small businesses to enterprise-level companies. They highlight their specialties, so this can also provide insight into who their key clients are. The most important factor with this question is to show that you have done your research on Kelly Services before attending your interview. Check out the company website to look for client reviews and any other indicator of whom their clients might be.
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
1st Answer Example
"From reading about your specialized brands, I understand that you serve many clients with specialized needs. I see that you partner with clients seeking government solutions and science and clinical talent, which is impressive. I have recruited for clients in similar industries and even direct competitors in the past. This experience will ensure that I catch on very quickly to your clients' varying needs."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that clients of Kelly Services consist of any sized business who need help finding rare skill sets or who need to volume hire for seasonal operations. Although I did not see any specific clients listed on your website, I did see your specialized brands, which included education, government, technology, and a few other areas. I suspect your clients are businesses that offer these types of services. Is this accurate to say?"
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Knowledge
16. How does a staffing agency charge a job seeker for their services?
How to Answer
This one may be a trick question! Legitimate staffing agencies never charge job seekers for placement services. That's right, every placement fee paid to a staffing agency is from the hiring company.
In many countries such as Canada, it is illegal for a recruitment or staffing agency to charge candidates for job placements. These regulations do not include fees for resume writing or career coaching, for example. The bottom line is, a job seeker never pays money to be considered for an open position with a staffing agency or their clients.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"They don't. All placement fees are paid for by the client and not the candidate, and I believe this is true for Kelly Services as well. In my current agency, we charge the client between 18-25% of the candidate's first year's salary. This fee structure means that if the candidate's agreed-upon salary is $100K, then our fee would be $18-25K. Again this is never paid for by the candidate. I also understand that different regions have various fee structures. However, I believe that a client should always pay the agency placement fee. No financial burden should fall on the job seeker."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Placement fees are paid to a staffing agency when they successfully place a job seeker in a new role with their client. Fee percentages vary with each agency, but an agency should always invoice the hiring company. A candidate may pay for assistance such as resume writing or career coaching. However, they do not pay the employment placement fee."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Knowledge
17. Do you understand how Kelly Services makes a profit?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you understand the fee structure at Kelly Services or at least staffing agencies in general. Depending on your region, this response could vary as there are different rules and regulations surrounding staffing and recruitment around the world.
For the most part, a staffing agency makes a profit in three ways:
1. Permanent placement fees
2. Temp fees
3. Retainer based searches
Permanent placement fees are usually a set percentage based on the ideal candidate's salary. Let's say that a staffing agency is asked to headhunt a chemical engineer. The staffing agency finds the perfect candidate, and that chemical engineer comes with an asking salary of $100K per year. The hiring company would pay (in addition to the $100K salary) a fee of 18-25% of that number as a permanent placement fee. So, a one-time $18-25K fee.
Temp fees are a surcharge in addition to a temporary employee or contractors' hourly wage. Assuming the same chemical engineer is working on a 12-month contract for an oil and gas company. The OG company does not want to add this engineer to their permanent payroll or pay the engineer's employment insurance and other government-required fees. The staffing agency will take on the employer's role and charge the additional costs plus a commission to the OG company. Let's say the chemical engineer is asking for $40/hour. The staffing agency will charge the OG company $55/hour, giving $40 to the contractor and taking $15 as an administration fee and commission.
A retainer is a fee that is paid in advance to secure the services of a staffing agency. Primarily retainers are only requested by high-end executive search firms who conduct long, complicated searches for talents such as surgeons, lawyers, professors, and CFOs. In this instance, the hiring company would pay a large sum upfront to the agency and then the remainder of their fee once the ideal candidate accepts a job offer.
Chances are, Kelly Services will be paid by perm or temp placement fees only. Speak to the interviewer briefly about fee structures, showing that you come from a place of full understanding.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I fully understand how recruitment and staffing agencies make a profit. My educated guess is that you earn a profit through permanent placement fees and temp fees. Could you share with me what your fee percentage is? My current agency charges 20-22% depending on the difficulty of the position and the location of our search."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"From my research, I understand that Kelly Services makes a profit from placement fees. I am familiar with three fee styles; the permanent search fee, which is a flat rate. The other is a temp fee, added onto a contractors' hourly wage. Last but not least is a retainer where the client pays a large percentage upfront, similar to hiring an attorney. Which fee structure is used most at Kelly Services?"
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Knowledge
18. What is the difference between temporary, temporary-to-permanent, and permanent placement?
How to Answer
Temp, temp-to-perm, and perm are recruitment and staffing terms that you will hear daily while working for Kelly Services.
Working temp means that a contractor is on a temporary contract with the staffing agency to work for their client for a specific amount of time. Temp employees are paid directly from the staffing agency, and the agency then bills the client.
Temp-to-perm is a temporary contract with an opportunity for the contractor to be hired full-time once their work performance is proven.
Perm or permanent placement is when candidates undergo a traditional screening and hiring process with the agency and their client. In the end, the hiring company makes a permanent job offer to the candidate.
Take a few moments to share your knowledge with the interviewer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I get this question from candidates a lot, and it's best to keep the answer straightforward. Temp work is contract work that can last anywhere from a couple of days to a year or more, depending on the company's hiring needs. The contractor knows the assignment can end at any time, without notice. Temporary-to-permanent occurs when that contractor is asked to stay on as a dedicated employee after the original contract period is up. Permanent placements are traditional offer-to-hire gigs where an agency's client will hire the candidate as a dedicated payrolled employee."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"The most significant difference between temp, temp-to-perm, and perm are the expectations set from the beginning. The staffing agency pays temp employees to fulfill a specific client need for an agreed-upon length of time. Temp-to-perm contractors may have the opportunity to be hired full-time once the contract is complete and their performance is proven. Perm refers to traditional employment where a company offers to hire the job seeker immediately for a permanent position."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Knowledge
19. In which categories does Kelly Services recruit?
How to Answer
The hiring authority at Kelly Services needs to be sure that you have done your homework on their organization before attending your interview. There are a plethora of areas where recruitment work is prevalent.
Find out the categories where Kelly Services recruits begin by looking at their highlighted specialties on their website. This tells you the types of jobs their clients need candidates for, and the areas Kelly Services have connections in. You can also review the job postings they have advertised. When you respond, list 3-5 industries from your research.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"When I looked through the specialties on your website, some of the categories that stood out were Industrial & Professional, Engineering, Government Solutions, and Education. In total, I believe you had over 12 specialties worldwide, so I was thrilled to see the variety of career fields and potential jobs. The range of jobs and locations tells me that your business development professionals and recruiters are hard at work!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"From my research, some of the specialized recruitment areas for Kelly Services appear to be Engineering, Education, Government Solutions, and Science & Clinical. Is this accurate? I saw a significant amount of categories and worldwide locations on your website."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Knowledge
20. How does artificial intelligence impact talent sourcing?
How to Answer
Artificial intelligence (AI) made its splash on the staffing scene many years ago, with the introduction of ATS or applicant tracking systems. Today, AI is becoming smarter and more robust, making it easier to source and screen the best candidates. Talk to the interviewer about the ways you have seen AI change talent sourcing strategy.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"The most dramatic change I have seen in the talent sourcing and staffing industry has been the marriage of AI and affordable SaaS. Many time-consuming tasks such as job postings, sourcing, and screening have been automated by solutions such as Zip Recruiter. As a recruiter, this allows me to find and screen candidates for clients who don't have the time to perform these necessary steps in staffing. The downside of AI in talent sourcing is the ease of use, and its affordability means companies that once relied on a staffing agency are utilizing this technology for themselves. To overcome this, staffing agencies must offer the best and fastest service, proving more than ever before that their fees are worth paying."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Applicant Tracking Systems are getting smarter every year, and once I learned how to utilize an ATS to my benefit, my recruitment process sped up exponentially. Now, I can deliver talented candidates to my clients' inbox in just a day or two, fully screened and ready for their first interview. I also believe that tools such as LinkedIn Recruiter, which rely heavily on AI for search results, have greatly benefitted the staffing industry."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Performance
21. What are some professional goals you have set for yourself this year?
How to Answer
Kelly Services knows that only the most eager recruiters win job orders and make placements since the staffing industry is competitive and challenging. Show the interviewer that you have professional goals and are keen to make a name for yourself in the staffing industry.
Professional goals can include earning a promotion, attending an industry conference to expand your network, or taking additional courses to broaden your recruitment knowledge.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"This year, I plan to attend the Staffing World conference in Las Vegas to infuse some new contacts into my network. I have been in the recruitment industry for eight years, and it's easy to become complacent with a steady business pipeline. This year it's important to me that I gain new contacts while also learning more about the way technology is changing our industry."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I am new to my career, so it's important to me that I carve out my professional path from the start. This year I have decided to seek out a mentor in the recruitment industry who can help me reach my goals while keeping my knowledge current and continually expanding my understanding of the staffing industry."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Performance
22. How do you continue to educate yourself, as an expert in staffing?
How to Answer
Continued education is critical in the staffing industry as regulations and technology change all of the time. Kelly Services seeks to hire people who are committed to growth within their profession. Some staffing agencies may even pay for continued education opportunities, so feel free to ask the interviewer if this is an option at Kelly Services. Talk to the interviewer about how you plan to educate yourself within staffing.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I read a lot and also subscribe to a variety of accounts and LinkedIn groups related to recruitment and staffing. This allows me to stay up to date on the latest developments and trends in the staffing industry. I also like to attend at least one conference every year. Last year, I attended a conference where the topics included legal issues in staffing and unconscious bias. Do you offer continued education opportunities to your team members here at Kelly Services?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Continued education opportunities are important to me as I grow my knowledge in the recruitment industry. To keep myself up to date, I subscribe to many blogs, including that of Kelly Services. I am also taking a couple of certification courses on ethical staffing and conscious recruitment. Could you share with me the education opportunities present at Kelly Services?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Performance
23. What will be your primary focus in your first 30 days with Kelly Services?
How to Answer
There are many tasks and accomplishments that you can focus on when working in the staffing industry. This question is meant to uncover if you have a plan to make an impact on Kelly Services shortly after being hired. Much of the staffing industry involves sales-based tasks, so it's a great idea to go into your interview with a strategic plan for your first 30 days and onward. Your plan should be focused on clients and candidates, so make sure you mention actions you plan to take to connect and win with both. Also, talk to the interviewer about your goals once you join Kelly Services. Some of the things you can mention might include:
-Understanding Kelly Services policies, systems, and procedures
-Start sourcing
-Establish a rapport with clients and understand their needs
-Place x number of candidates
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"From our conversation, I understand that you need a staffing expert with experience in business development within various engineering sectors. Once I have my footing at Kelly Services, I plan to approach the hiring authorities in my network who work within various arms of engineering. In the first 30 days, I aim to bring in 15 new job orders. In the next 60 to 90 days, I will boost that goal to 25 each month. I am confident in my ability to grow into this role quickly while exceeding your business development expectations."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"It's important to me that I learn the staffing industry quickly so that I can begin making an impact when it comes to research, prospecting, and business development activities. Once hired at Kelly Services, I plan to dive into my training, connect with a senior recruiter, and take time in evenings and weekends to master the guidance given to me. I also plan to learn about the specialty areas we service, developing a candidate pool, and more."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Performance
24. Tell me about the targets and goals in your current position. Do you have trouble meeting them?
How to Answer
Every staffing professional knows that there are targets and goals to meet within their agency. In temporary recruitment, these targets often relate to the speed at which you fill open job orders or the volume of work you get from your clients.
In permanent staffing, goals can include the fees you have collected each quarter or how many job orders you brought in through cold calling efforts.
Talk to the interviewer about the goals and targets in your current position. If you are not sure of the goals present in this role with Kelly Services, it is certainly okay to ask.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my current position, I have a heavy focus on new client acquisition and business development activities which includes performing at least 60 cold calls per week. I always meet my performance targets, including job order volume, first interviews conducted, and placement fees collected. This month already, I am 154% to my placement fee goals."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I am measured on how quickly I fill my temporary job orders and the number of new job orders that my existing clients send me every month. My average is 20 job orders per month, with an expectation of just 15. I am a high performer, and I look forward to bringing this winning attitude to Kelly Services."
Situational
25. Tell me about a time you lost a job order or placement to a competitor. How did you react?
How to Answer
Very often, you will work on job orders that are not exclusive. This non-exclusivity means that your client may give the same job order to five different staffing agencies, and may the best recruiter win! This situation is especially challenging when you live in a smaller city or if the position requires a particular skill set.
Kelly Services needs to see that you are up for the challenge and that you act gracefully and professionally on the days that you don't win. Discuss a situation from the past highlighting how you reacted, how you made the best of the situation, and anything you might do differently to improve your chances of winning job orders.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have one particular client who refuses ever to give exclusivity. Most of the time, their open jobs are shopped out to three other staffing agencies. The most recent order was to find a chemical engineer with 15+ years of experience, which came from a direct competitor of my client. This search was incredibly specific, and a competing agency had already approached many of the candidates I called. Unfortunately, I felt behind the ball most of the search and did not make the final placement. I took the situation for what it was; you win some, and you lose some. I will continue to give priority to this client and offer the best service possible. Also, I will never stop asking for exclusivity - hoping that they change their mind one day. To reduce the chances of my losing job orders at Kelly Services, I will offer top-notch service and communication, thoroughly understand my client's needs, and always mention Kelly Services' competitive advantages."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I made an in-person client call to discuss a few sales openings with a prevalent advertising company in our region. I was eager to win their business and had a lot of great questions prepared for our meeting. Although I felt the meeting went well, the client called me the next day to tell me they gave the business to our competitor because their fees were lower. Our agency keeps integrity in our pricing, so I could not negotiate enough to win the business. I took the situation gracefully because I know that our agency offers much more full-service than the competitor they chose. I ended up hearing back from the client a short time later, expressing that they wanted to give our agency a try after all. It never pays to burn a bridge, and I am so happy that I stuck to my process and remained professional throughout our initial interactions."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Situational
26. When have you had to change a search due to new information from your client?
How to Answer
Recruitment projects can change on a dime for a variety of reasons. In the staffing industry, you may find that your client calls off a search entirely after you have poured all of your energy into it for two weeks.
Other situations may change, such as their ideal background or candidate education. Perhaps the client forgot to mention that the role requires extensive travel or eventual relocation.
Talk to the interviewer about a time when you had to pivot your search due to new information. Discuss how you reacted and what you did to keep the momentum going. Most of all, Kelly Services wants to see that you are adaptable.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Just last month, I had a client who needed to find ten territory sales reps in 60 days. The job order was one of the largest that I had ever taken. The territories had been outlined clearly, which was great. I could call candidates and be very clear with them on the travel expectations and percentage of overnight travel. Midway through my search, the client returned and said that they decided to hire just five people and double up on the territories. I had to call my shortlisted candidates again and ask them if they were open to more extensive travel than originally discussed. Luckily, most of them were open to the idea; however, I did lose three top candidates due to the change. I have learned in the recruitment industry to be flexible and roll with the punches because situations like this come up all the time. For the clients that I lose, I keep them in my candidate pool for similar opportunities that may arise, which can reduce pre-screening time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I had a client, after interviewing my top three candidates, decide that they only wanted to see candidates with post-secondary degrees. I moved on to seek out and present only candidates with college degrees. The client was happy in the end and ended up choosing the very first candidate I submitted. I am glad that I complied rather than fight the situation because it all worked out well in the end."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Skills
27. How do you build trust and rapport with your clients?
How to Answer
For Kelly Services, client relationships are everything. Excellent client service and strong relationships are what separate successful agencies from those who struggle. As a staffing professional, you know that anything is possible, from finding unicorn candidates to closing temp contracts in a matter of hours.
Show the interviewer that you know what it takes to build strong client relationships. Your relationship-building activities can include asking your clients questions about themselves, setting clear expectations and guidelines at the start of every search, and learning their industry language. Exceptional follow-up is another way to build trust with your clients quickly.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"As the lead permanent search recruiter, I am always the first person that a potential new client sees. Because of this, I make sure I am professional, kind, and a good representation of Kelly Services because first impressions are everything. To build a strong relationship from the start, I make sure that I look professional and knowledgeable. I ask insightful questions that stand apart from other recruiters with whom they have met. Most importantly, I empower my clients to understand stellar recruitment practices. I become their partner in staffing versus just another recruiter looking for a fee."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"The fastest way to create a trusting relationship with my clients is to deliver candidates to them much faster than they anticipated. I like to present my first candidate within 24 hours of receiving the job order. This speed means that I win over other recruiters while showing my client that I care about their needs. I earn many other job orders from this approach, as well as countless referrals."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Skills
28. When scanning a resume for the first time, what do you look for?
How to Answer
Stats show that a recruiter will give a resume between seven and eleven seconds of their attention before moving on to another resume. Experts in the staffing industry know how to scan and screen a resume for the most critical information, so they can easily shortlist or disqualify.
Working at Kelly Services, chances are most of the resumes you will receive will first be screened by your applicant tracking system. However, many resumes will still come through to your email. Show the interviewer that you know what to look for in a resume when you initially screen it.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"When I am scanning a resume for the first time, I will first look to see if they meet my client's educational requirements. Then, I look at their dates of employment to see if they have changed jobs frequently. Next, I look at their job title and the industries they have worked for to ensure their career progression makes sense. I also want to know if they have worked for my client in the past. If they pass these initial checks, I will call them for a prescreen telephone interview."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Job hopping is the first thing that I look for in a resume. If the candidate has held more than five jobs in three years, I disqualify them. It's nearly impossible to ask a client for a hefty fee when there are no guarantees this candidate would stick by them. Next, I look for a match with industry and education and ensure that job titles and movements make sense. For example, if someone went from sales rep to CEO in 6 months, I would need to know more since that would be an unusual career progression."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Skills
29. What advice would you give to a recent grad with no work experience?
How to Answer
Kelly Services is all about empowering their candidates, which includes giving sound career and job-search advice to the candidates they work with. Using your recruitment and career development knowledge, talk to the hiring authority about the help you would give to a recent graduate with no work experience who needed to round out their resume. Your advice could be to volunteer more, add in some temporary work, take additional coursework, and more.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"As a recruiter, I am a strong believer in the power of volunteer work. Statistics show that 3 out of 4 hiring managers prefer to hire candidates with recent volunteer experience. For that reason, I advise new grads that their volunteer work should be on their resume, and it can be just as valuable as work experience if highlighted to an employer correctly. I would also suggest temporary work to gain experience and exposure to the career field they are interested in."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"The best piece of advice that I could give a recent grad is to continually educate themselves in the form of online coursework, reading the right books, and taking advantage of personal development opportunities. I would also recommend they network and get out in their community. Many jobs come through networking, so it's important to get your name out there."
Skills
30. Recruitment often requires out-of-the-box thinking. Are you creative by nature?
How to Answer
Being creative doesn't necessarily mean that you can paint like Picasso or write songs like Lady Gaga. What creativity means is being able to view and solve common issues in a unique way. Creativity can include being willing to take a risk and change your perspective on a topic.
Being creative is an essential skill as a recruiter since you will often need to look at your client's needs and pain points in a completely new way. You may also need to be creative when considering a candidate's skills. Perhaps they want to change career fields or work in areas where they may not have as much experience. In these instances, you'll need to be creative with aligning their skills to the client's needs. Assure the interviewer that you are creative, giving a work-related example.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I am most certainly a creative individual. One example of my creativity in action would be the prospecting sales script series I created for our new business development associates. The scripts needed a facelift, so I took my copywriting skills, my sales savvy and married them into a very effective sales series. Since this implementation, our close rate has increased by 15%."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Unconventional thinking in business requires a great deal of creativity. When placing candidates with non-exclusive job orders, I need to think differently than other competing agencies with the same client job order. I reverse engineer the path of my ideal candidate and, by doing so, I am the first to reach top candidates before many of my competing recruiters."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Skills
31. How do you determine job order priority?
How to Answer
Prioritizing job orders when you have multiple open requests at one time can be a tricky task. You may want to consider factors like:
- The clients' preferred start date
- The difficulty level of a search
- Whether the search is exclusive
- The candidate market in the role's location/region
Show the interviewer that you will not have a problem sorting your job orders at Kelly Services, ensuring every client is taken care of promptly.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I lean on my CRM and calendar a lot when it comes to prioritizing tasks. I rank jobs in order of importance in an A, B, C fashion and set up goals, dates, and milestones. My system prompts me when a deadline is approaching. Some clients' needs are more urgent than others, such as a new search versus an unexpected replacement. Overall, I never allow a client to go more than 48 hours without some movement from me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Non-exclusive roles often receive priority. Also, temp gigs require a fast turnaround, sometimes less than 24 hours between order to fill. Next, I prioritize by how responsive my client is and their preferred start date."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 6th, 2021
Skills
32. Tell me about your customer service skills.
How to Answer
The recruitment and staffing industry involves a great deal of customer service. When working with clients, your customer service skills are key to building a client's trust, winning job orders, and having repeat clients. When it comes to job candidates, Kelly Services has a 5 point Kelly Talent Promise, which is their dedication to offering candidates the best customer service experience to meet their job needs.
Tell the interviewer what great customer service means to you as a recruiter and how you'll demonstrate it to the people you work with at Kelly Services. This is a good opportunity to mention how you've earned the trust of previous clients. You can also share a time when you went above and beyond to provide good customer service to a client or candidate. Also, show the interviewer that you understand Kelly Services' commitment to offering stellar customer service.
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
1st Answer Example
"As a recruiter, customer service has been the number one skill that has allowed me to be successful. I know that being professional, responsive, and going the extra mile for clients has allowed me to win jobs over the competition, and many of my clients return when they have more jobs to fill. I communicate expectations, respond promptly, build a rapport, and am patient. To me, good customer service is understanding what the client or candidate needs and going above and beyond to meet them. Kelly Services has earned a reputation for offering good customer service, and I plan to contribute to that as well."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I've developed good customer service skills in my previous retail and sales positions. I know that good customer service means the customer is satisfied and has a good experience with the company. As a new recruiter, I plan to take notes on how other seasoned recruiters offer the kind of customer service that makes clients want to come back."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Skills
33. Describe your communication skills.
How to Answer
At Kelly Services, how well you communicate can also mean your ability to place candidates and represent the company. Excellent communication is important for sharing expectations with candidates, collaborating with team members, and forming partnerships with clients.
The interviewer wants to know how well you communicate in any scenario. Share with them your understanding of the importance of good written and verbal communication.
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
1st Answer Example
"When communicating with clients, I make sure that I am professional at all times and provide thorough information. I also respond to clients and candidates quickly to avoid the risk of losing them to a competitor and so they know that I'm working diligently to meet their needs."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Communication is key in any situation. I make sure that the information I provide is clear and accurate to avoid misunderstandings. I'm also very professional whether I'm communicating over the phone, in person, over email, and when writing documents."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Skills
34. When working with a client, how do you beat out competition?
How to Answer
Many clients don't offer exclusivity to job orders, making it challenging to win a client over and get candidates placed. While staffing agencies are often similar, Kelly Services has its own values and specialties to make them stand out from the crowd.
The interviewer wants to know how you will sell Kelly Services. Show them how you will convince a client that Kelly Services is the best agency to find the right candidates.
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
1st Answer Example
"When clients don't offer exclusivity to a job order, it immediately becomes a race to the finish line as I know other recruiters are trying to win the job. Kelly Services has a stellar reputation because of the customer service and specialities that they service. I plan to communicate this to clients and ensure they understand their needs because we work specifically with candidates with the skills they need. I'll also offer great customer service, build trust, and deliver on my promises."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"One of the first things I plan to learn in my role is the marketing and sales materials. By partnering with a mentor, I'll be able to learn how to describe Kelly Services in a way that will leave clients no choice but to choose Kelly Services."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
Teamwork
35. How would your co-workers describe you?
How to Answer
Kelly Services' vision is to be the most creative, insightful, and agile talent company. To foster this kind of work environment, everyone needs to contribute their ideas, help each other, and work together to meet the company's goals. As a recruiter, it can be challenging to remember that although you have your own goals, you are still part of a team.
Share with the interviewer how your co-workers would describe your teamwork ethic. Be sure to describe how your qualities are closely aligned to the culture at Kelly Services.
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
1st Answer Example
"My co-workers would say that I am a team player. In my previous role, I was a mentor for new recruiters that joined the team. I helped them learn about the basics of recruiting and showed them ways to strengthen their recruitment skills."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"My co-workers would describe me as ambitious. Whenever I set goals, I work hard to meet them and learn from my mistakes along the way."
Written by Ronda Barnes on July 31st, 2021