11 Questions to Ask Before Signing an IT Staffing Agreement

1. How do you vet candidates—specifically for technical depth and culture fit?

Look for structured screening, not just resume filters. Ask for the actual process.

2. When should we expect submissions?

“Fast” and “quality” aren’t the same. Clarify expectations for volume and timing. Understand the parnter’s vetting process and what the means for receiving quality talent.

3. Who will manage our account and stay in contact post-placement?

You’re not just hiring recruiters—you’re hiring their process. Know who’s accountable.

4. What happens if a hire doesn’t work out in the first 30–90 days?

A quality partner shares the risk. Look for replacement guarantees, not shoulder shrugs.

5. Do you provide post-placement support or check-ins?

Ongoing engagement is a proxy for quality. If they disappear after day one, that’s a red flag.

6. How do you gather and communicate job context to candidates?

“We understand your needs” is meaningless without a real intake process. Ask how they learn about your environment.

7. Do you present resumes or qualified shortlists?

The difference is huge. Shortlists come with insight, fit logic, and prep—not just names.

8. What are your typical time-to-fill metrics for roles like ours?

Don’t ask if they can fill it—ask how long it usually takes. Bonus: request real-world examples.

9. How do you handle intellectual property, confidentiality, and security concerns?

Especially important in software, cloud, and cybersecurity contracts. Don’t assume it's covered—verify it is.

10. Can you flex with us—up or down—based on changing project needs?

If your project expands or contracts, will their model adjust? Scalability is critical in dynamic environments.

11. Can you provide references from similar clients or roles?

Any credible firm should have leaders who will vouch for them. Ask for relevance—not just logos.

Final Tip: Make It a Two-Way Evaluation

Staffing success isn’t just about hiring quickly. It’s about reducing risk, improving retention, and delivering results. These questions help you do that—before the ink is dry.