I’m Amy Linn, Owner and Strategic Partner of PrideStaff Dallas. We’ve been operating in the Dallas staffing market for over 25 years, and this is still one of the most common questions we get.
The short answer: yes, staffing agencies are free for job seekers. At PrideStaff Dallas, there is zero cost to candidates. That has always been the case, and it isn’t changing.
I understand why people are skeptical, so let me explain exactly how it works.
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How staffing agencies make money?
Staffing agencies are paid by the employers, not the candidates. When a company needs to hire, they come to us with a specific need, a Staff Accountant, a customer service team, an administrative assistant. We source, screen, and present qualified candidates. The employer pays the agency for that service.
For temporary and contract positions, the staffing agency pays the worker’s wages and handles payroll, benefits, and employment taxes. The employer pays the agency a markup on the hourly rate that covers all of that plus the agency’s fee. The worker gets their full agreed-upon pay rate. Nothing is deducted for the agency’s services.
For direct hire placements, the employer pays a one-time fee when they hire the candidate permanently. Again, nothing comes out of the candidate’s pocket or paycheck.
What to watch out for?
If any agency asks you to pay money for job placement, resume services, or “priority listing” fees, that’s a red flag. Legitimate staffing agencies do not charge job seekers.
The only investment from you as a job seeker is your time. An initial conversation with your recruiter, possibly skills assessments, and interview prep. That time pays off because you’re getting access to positions that aren’t posted publicly, personalized coaching, and someone advocating for you directly to hiring managers.
What do you get at no cost?
At PrideStaff Dallas, every job seeker gets a personal recruiter who learns your career goals. Resume feedback and interview coaching. Honest insight into the Dallas job market and realistic salary expectations. Access to opportunities with companies across Irving, Richardson, Plano, Addison, and throughout the DFW metroplex that you won’t find on a job board. And ongoing support even after you’re placed.
We’ve been doing this in Dallas for over 25 years. See what candidates and clients say about working with us in our success stories. Our services are free for job seekers. If you have questions, visit StaffingInDallas.com or reach out directly.
Did you know staffing agencies were free for job seekers? What other questions do you have about how it works?