In addition, in the United States, Canada, Mexico, England, Australia and New Zealand, the number one cause for divorce is job-related financial problems.

Using an employment agency to find the right job for your skills and salary requirements can make your career search much easier and faster.

All employee agencies are not created equal. As in every field of business, some are very good and some have a low success rate. When making your decision about which employment agency is best for you, consider these five points:

1. How long has the employment agency been in business?

Agencies that have been in existence for five or more years have usually established a good reputation for success with both employers who seek qualified applicants, and for clients who register with the agency to aid in their job search.

2. Does the agency's prospective employers coincide your skill level?

If you're seeking a position as an executive administrative assistant in a large company but don't have the necessary skills for this high-level job, the agency should inform you of this problem right away and refer you to another employment agency with a prospectus of employers more suitable for your skills.

3. How did you find the employment agency?

In a matter as important as your career and financial stability, picking up the telephone book and picking an agency at random isn't a good idea. Word of mouth is an excellent way to choose an agency; ask friends, current co-workers or anyone else you know if they have used a particular agency with good results.

Primarily, audition the employment agency! Since your career depends upon the qualifications and procedures of the agency, you have the right to ask questions such as their percentage success rate and an honest appraisal of how an agency can best help you.

4. What's your first impression of the agency personnel?

Jobs seem more scarce these days, and there is more competition for some specialty areas. When you first meet with the personnel manager assigned to you, pay attention to his/her demeanor towards you - are you viewed as just another case file, or does your manager take a serious interest in your job search?

5 Ask specific questions about the employment agency's policies.

Before you register with an agency, ask about how many interviews you can expect per week, and exactly how the agency intends to advocate for you in your job search.

If you don't like what you hear or see about the agency, don't settle for less! Keep looking until the "feel" of the agency is right for you.