FAQ`s
How do I register with COS?
To begin with, you can complete and submit the brief on-line form that can be found on our submit CV page and you will be contacted by one of our Consultants as soon as they have any suitable roles that match your requirements. Alternatively you can contact your nearest COS branch and arrange an appointment to register.
What do I have to bring to the registration interview?
We will need to see your Passport or National Identity Card, two utility bills to provide evidence of your address and details of two referees (preferably previous employers). If you don’t have a Passport or National Identity Card please speak to a Consultant at the branch you intend to register with to discuss other suitable documentation to prove your eligibility to work in the U.K.
Do I need to fill in a form when I register?
During your registration interview a Consultant will enter the relevant information directly onto our networked computer system. This saves your time and unnecessary duplication of information.
Is there any charge to me to register with COS?
No. All our services to candidates are entirely free of charge.
When are you open and when can I register?
We’re open from 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday. Please telephone in advance so a convenient appointment can be arranged.
Will I be tested at registration? If so, what are the tests?
We will assess your level of competence on any PC software packages you have used to ensure you are only matched to suitable vacancies appropriate to your skills set.
How long does the registration process take?
Please allow one and a half hours, which includes any assessments needed.
What should I wear for registration?
As our clients usually ask about the presentation of our candidates it is useful if you are able to dress smartly if possible.
Do I need to register with more than one branch to hear about more jobs?
No. You only need to register with the branch most convenient for you. Our branches are networked and this means that your details can be accessed by any COS Consultant whenever we have a vacancy in a location that you’ve told us is suitable for you.
How often do I need to call you after registering to keep abreast of current jobs?
At your registration interview your Consultant will advise the best times and frequency to keep in touch. However it’s a good idea to maintain regular contact to update us with your availability and job search progress as you’ll then be at the forefront of our mind when we’re matching for new jobs. Also check our website regularly as we update it daily with our latest vacancies and please apply to any jobs of interest as your response will go directly to the Consultant managing the position.
Do I have to accept every temp assignment or permanent job offered to me?
No. You can choose when and where you want to work and what you want to do. If you decide you don’t want to accept a temp assignment, or you believe a permanent job we’ve talked to you about isn’t right for you this will not jeopardise your chance of hearing about future work through COS. It’s important to be honest with us as we want you to be happy in your job and committed to any temp assignment you do.
I’ve had contact with more than one branch/Consultant about different jobs, do I need to call each branch/Consultant to update my availability/requirements?
No. As our branches are networked, whenever we update our computer system with any new information you have given us it will be instantly available to all COS Consultants so you’ll never have to repeat yourself.
What type of companies do you work with and what type of jobs do you specialise in?
We recruit across the whole spectrum of office-based roles, from office junior to office manager, in every type of company and industry – large and small, public and private sector, including specialist roles within industries such as pharmaceutical/medical communications, legal, editorial, etc.
How long will it take to find me work?
This can vary, depending on the availability of role you require and your individual skills and experience. However our aim is to find you work as quickly as possible and we work hard to match you to the right job.
Do you offer training?
Yes. We provide free PC training facilities to registered candidates on Microsoft packages. Training can be arranged to suit your schedule from basic to advanced levels or just as a refresher.
Where do I send my Timesheet?
You should send your completed and signed timesheet to our Head Office Administration Department by 11am on the Monday following the week worked. Timesheets are available in our Downloads section (click for the standard COS Timesheet, and for an NHS Timesheet).
How and when do I get paid as a temp?
Provided we have received your Timesheet on time, payment is made by your Limited Company Contractor Umbrella Company by BACS transfer directly to your account by the Friday following the week worked.
How much Holiday Pay do I get and when is it paid?
All temps are entitled to 28 days holiday pay per annum (inclusive of bank holidays), calculated pro rata to the time worked. Your Limited Company Contractor Umbrella Company can explain how this works. Holiday Pay can be added to your hourly pay rate and paid weekly as you work or alternatively accrued and paid when you take time off.
Can you explain my tax to me?
For information about your tax/N.I. or other deductions and expenses please contact your Limited Company Contractor Umbrella Company.
I am a student, will I be taxed?
Please contact your Limited Company Contractor Umbrella Company for information about tax exemptions relating to students.
How do I obtain my P45?
Please contact your Limited Company Contractor Umbrella Company to request your p45.
Do I have to come in to re-register if I want to use COS again?
It’s not usually necessary to call in personally, depending on how long you’ve been away from COS, but it’s always nice to see you again so we can renew our relationship on a face-to-face basis when we update your details. However, your information is always kept on our computer system so re-registration is quick and simple.
How do I obtain a reference?
If your require a reference to confirm dates when you have undertaken temporary assignments please contact our Head Office.
