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Offering a whole world of work flexibility, the chance to explore different healthcare settings and advance your career – there’s never been a better time to consider working as an agency healthcare professional. More than ever, Ireland has a growing need for professionals from nurses to healthcare assistants. But how do you choose a good healthcare recruitment agency that will take care of you and provide the best benefits? Let’s look at some typical questions you should be asking…

Is the healthcare agency registered and well-established?

Remember that nursing and healthcare agencies in Ireland must be registered with and regulated by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) as well as the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI). This means you can be sure that the agency operates with high standards and provides quality services. Experience is also important – so choose a well-established agency. For example, TTM has been dedicated to the healthcare sector for more than 22 years. This means we have a deep understanding of the healthcare industry, and we know what healthcare professionals are looking for in their careers. Our longevity also means we have built long-lasting partnerships with HSE organisations and the private sector – so we can offer you the best opportunities. Most importantly, we have the track record to prove it.

Does it take Compliance seriously?

It’s so important that recruitment agencies have a keen focus on the compliance process so that you can start work as quickly as possible. Our dedicated Specialist Compliance Team handles all the necessary quality checks throughout each stage of pre-employment, including Occupational Health Clearance, Reference Checks, Garda Vetting and Work Permit.

Does the agency offer work flexibility?

Agency work should put the power in your hands as to when and where you want to work. It should give you real flexibility so you can tailor your schedule to suit your family, educational, lifestyle and financial needs – allowing you to select the shifts and jobs that suit you best. Talk to us about how you can benefit from this kind of career freedom.

Do they offer you variety?

A good recruitment agency should bring you a wide range of healthcare opportunities so you can find the best fit for your skills and grow your experience by working across the public, private and voluntary sectors. At TTM we have a strong and vast network of partners, and as an approved supplier to HSE you get access to the best shifts.

Key Tip: An agency with work available nationwide means you can choose shifts with a shorter work commute – for a better work/life balance. We can help.

Does the agency give you good support?

Remember, the agency is there to support YOU. Do you have your own dedicated consultant who takes the time to get to know you and your needs? Are they with you every step of the way to make the process smooth and seamless – from interview to onboarding? We’re proud that TTM ticks all these boxes, along with giving you a single dedicated point of contact once you start work and support that’s available 24/7.

Consider how you’d like to be paid…

Agency work should offer higher rates than permanent post salaries. You should also consider WHEN you will be paid to ensure this works with your budget and financial obligations.

Key Tip: We offer market-leading rates and pay weekly – helping our candidates enjoy consistent income.

How does the agency support your career advancement?

A good agency will keep you informed of training opportunities to that you can meet your Continuous Professional Development requirements and progress your career.

Key Tip: At TTM we have our own training division – TTM Training – dedicated to empowering our candidates with quality knowledge, training and workplace skills. It makes training convenient and easy for you.

Does the agency keep up with technology?

Check out if the agency uses forward-thinking technology to optimise their service to you. For example, our user-friendly ROTA app lets you manage your work schedule from your mobile – putting you in complete control. You can apply for shifts and upload your availability up to six weeks in advance.

What about extra benefits?

Does your agency look after you with added value benefits that make a meaningful difference in your daily life? How does the agency show that it appreciates the work you do as the backbone of healthcare? One of the ways we look out for you and your well-being is giving you access to our Employee Assistance Programme in support of your mental health. This offers 24/7 access to professional counselling, compassionate care and professional advice as well as referral to professionals on specific matters – from financial to legal. You also become a member of our Perks at Work rewards platform which offers exclusive savings, rewards and discounts on everything from travel and clothing to electronics. Also included is access to our Community Online Academy offering more than 100 virtual adult and children’s courses for FREE.

We wish you all the best as you develop agency worker career. You can find more information on TTM here.