Candidates Frequently Asked Questions
Who is EdgeLink?
EdgeLink is a Portland-based, technology staffing firm. Our approach is to build long lasting relationships with companies and candidates and to use our intimate understanding of their needs and wants to deliver exceptional technology talent and unmatched opportunities, respectively.
What type of positions do you have available?
We work with companies looking to fill mid-to-executive level positions. We offer contract, contract-to-hire and direct hire positions based on the needs of our clients. We work closely with individuals such as yourself to understand your personal and professional needs and desires, so that we can find the right position and company for you.
Contracts positions can be as short as a couple of days to multiple years depending on the client's needs. Contract-to-hire positions typically allow you and the employer to get to know one another and determine if a full-time position is a right fit. There is no limitation on converting from an EdgeLink contractor to an employee of the client; however, all conversions are based on the client's request. Direct hire positions can be part-time or full-time but involve you working directly for the client company.
What's the best way to work with EdgeLink to find a new job?
Our most successful candidates begin by creating a profile providing as much information as they can about themselves. The more we know about your skills, experiences, likes and dislikes, the better able we are to narrow in on suitable positions for you. In most cases you will be contacted directly by one of our Recruiters to further evaluate your career situation, however don't be bashful...feel free to either e-mail or call into our office to connect directly with one of our recruiters.
Next we will either schedule a face-to-face or phone interview so that we can obtain more detailed information about your background, expertise and goals. The most successful relationships come from full disclosure from the candidate and the recruiter. Be honest about salary requirements, job requirements, benefits, career progression, etc.; anything that is a factor in your decision making process.
Once we have completed the interview process your recruiter will keep you informed of any activity or updates during the job search. Feel free to check in periodically with your recruiter for status updates. Although positions can be sporadic and one may not be immediately available, you can be sure that your recruiter will contact you as soon as a suitable position becomes available.
What if there isn't a position I'm interested in right now? Will you contact me if a position does become available?
If a qualified position does come available, we work extremely hard to keep you "in the know" and seek your availability and interest regarding the position. We will not submit your resume ANYWHERE without your permission. In addition, we encourage you to keep an ongoing dialogue with us to keep us educated on your current working situation and/or any changes with your career path.
How long does it usually take for you to find me a new job?
It depends on the availability of qualified positions. It can be as quickly as a couple days and up to several months depending upon available positions and your personal objectives.
Is there anything I can do to better my chances of being picked by one of your clients?
Great question, and there are dozens of areas to improve in this area. During your initial interview consultation with your EdgeLink recruiter, part of our process is to evaluate your skills and strategy for seeking a new position. Utilizing our seasoned experience in this area, we will do everything we can to better position you for your desired role.
Can I work with other staffing companies besides EdgeLink?
Yes. If there are other staffing companies you would like to work with we encourage you to discuss this with your EdgeLink Recruiter. We would not like to duplicate our efforts for you; therefore, open communication is very important if you are working with another recruiter.
What kinds of companies hire EdgeLink to find a technology professional like me?
We work with a broad range of technology companies, ranging from small 10-person start-ups to large Fortune 100 corporations.
What kind of skills do I need to have?
Every client's needs are different and so the skills you will need will vary by the company and the position for which you are applying. Although clients will likely be looking for very specific or general technology experience, having business acumen is a factor becoming more and more important to employers.
What industries and geographies do you serve?
We support a variety of emerging and established industries, with particular recruiting emphasis in the areas of Software/Hardware R&D and IT Infrastructure. We focus our recruiting efforts in Portland, Oregon, and also help Portland companies meet their remote-office hiring needs.
Who pays for your services?
Our services are free to candidates. The hiring company pays for our services as follows:
- Fees for our contract placements are billed per hour worked by the contractor. Rates for all services are agreed upon prior to commencement of work.
- Fees for our contract-to-hire positions are pre-arranged with our client's before your work assignment. The fees are based on the number of hours you have worked on the client's assignment and phase out over time. A client can choose to hire an EdgeLink employee at any point during contract period; EdgeLink does not put any restrictions on conversions.
- Fees for our direct hire placement services are charged on a contingent basis; hiring companies are only billed upon a successful hire, and we guarantee the placement for an agreed-upon period of time.
Do you offer benefits, such as medical and dental insurance?
EdgeLink offers employee sponsored dental and vision insurance through AFLAC. In addition, EdgeLink offers disability insurance through AFLAC. Your recruiter can provide you more specific details about the insurance coverage available to you as an EdgeLink contractor.