Getting so frustrated with finding a reputable agency

[raindrop]

Even though I am not very happy with my current agency, I may give them another try because finding a new agency is very frustrating. For every good review I read, there are 10 negative reviews. I am working with another traveler who also works for the same agency as I. She cannot believe the stories that I tell her becsuse she's never had a single issue in the 5 years that dhe's been with them. Her recruiter sounds top-notch. I would like to switch recruiters for my next assignment, but I am unsure of how to do it, I believe all their recruiters work under the same roof and likely have the commraderie going on. And I do not want to get my current recruiter in trouble or anything, but I know the question will br asked about why I want to switch recruiters.

[NedRN]

I'm sure I've told you this before, or you must of read one of the many times I've said this, but just because one (or many) travelers have done well with a recruiter doesn't mean you will do well. Would you date a man simply because someone else did it, and would that indicate a successful outcome for you? It is possible, but I bet you would like to have a few conversations before committing to marrying him!

Good communication is the key in any relationship. If you don't communicate well, why would you ever think you would have a successful relationship? The traveler/recruiter relationship is no different. Just like dating, you need to talk to a lot of them to find a few with whom it is worth a try. So? You need to call lots of agencies and weed them down to a few you think might go well because you communicate well with the recruiter.

What specifically is the trouble with your current recruiter? No matter really. I would call the agency and ask for a manager. Keep it professional, don't gripe about your current recruiter (even if they are a total screwup - the manager will know that already). Just tell them it is not a good fit and leave it at that. You don't even have to say you don't have a compatible style of communication, they will get that. The less said the better. Simply say that you like the agency, but would prefer a switch to another recruiter. You could share some personal preferences about a recruiter, now that you know what you don't like, to help the manager pick a good fit for you. Or you can take a chance and mention a personal referral to your acquaintance's recruiter.

Any way to decide to go, you really need a Plan B - don't put all your eggs in one basket. Talk to a few other agencies and see if you get lucky! (to continue the dating analogy too far)