What It’s Really Like Working With a Hospitality Staffing Agency
Whether you're a seasoned hospitality pro or just starting out, working with a staffing agency can be a game-changer. But if you’ve never gone that route before, you might be wondering: What’s it actually like?
At Selective Personnel, we believe in setting clear expectations and building strong relationships. So let’s pull back the curtain and show you exactly what it’s like to work with a hospitality staffing agency - the good, the real, and how it can move your career forward.
Step 1: The Application Process
Working with a reputable agency starts with a proper sign-up. Here’s what you can expect:
Apply online through our form found on the “Work With Us” page.
Attend an onboarding briefing—these are in-person sessions to gauge what experience you may already have.
Complete online training modules to ensure you are ready to work shifts ASAP!
Show documentation (proof of right to work, ID, certifications).
Background check with professional or personal references.
At Selective Personnel, we also take the time to learn about your goals—are you looking for flexible shifts? A full-time placement? A foot in the door with luxury venues? This helps us match you better from day one.
Step 2: Getting Matched with Shifts or Roles
Once you’re on our books, we’ll start offering you opportunities that match your experience, availability, and preferences.
Typical roles include:
Waitstaff or bar staff for events
Hotel housekeeping
Front-of-house or back-of-house restaurant work
Event setup/teardown teams
Supervisory roles for experienced talent
Some jobs are last-minute calls, others are long-term assignments, and you always have the choice to accept or decline (in enough time). That flexibility is one of our biggest perks!
Step 3: Clock In, Work Hard, Repeat
When you accept a shift, we’ll provide everything you need:
Location and time
Dress code and equipment required
Name of the on-site manager
What to expect on arrival
Your job? Show up on time, give excellent service, and represent the agency well. Consistent performance is the key to getting better shifts and longer-term opportunities.
Agencies like Selective Personnel are trusted by top-tier clients - so when you work a shift, you’re stepping into high-quality venues and learning on the go.
Step 4: Communication and Support
One of the biggest benefits of agency work is constant support. With Selective Personnel, you’re never alone.
Need to confirm a shift? We’re one text away.
Something off at the venue? We’ll handle it.
Got injured or need to cancel? We’ve got backup plans.
We understand hospitality can be intense - our job is to make the process smoother for you.
Step 5: Career Growth (If You Want It)
Think temp work is just a stopgap? Think again.
Many of our team members:
Move into supervisor or team leader roles
Gain specialised experience (e.g., luxury hotels, fine dining)
Build connections they can take anywhere
Working with an agency is one of the fastest ways to grow your skills, confidence, and network in the hospitality industry.
Real Talk: The Pros and Cons
Here’s the honest truth:
Pros:
Flexibility to choose your shifts
Work in exciting, often prestigious venues
Get paid regularly and reliably
Opportunities to grow into leadership or full-time roles
Challenges:
You need to be adaptable - every shift can be different
Last-minute jobs can pop up (great if you’re available!)
Reliability and attitude matter a lot - you’re always representing the agency
Is It Right for You?
If you’re reliable, hard-working, and want flexibility with room for growth, working with a hospitality staffing agency could be your best move yet.
At Selective Personnel, we’re not just filling shifts - we’re building careers. Whether you want to earn some extra income or land a long-term role in the industry, we’re here to support your journey.