Recruitment agencies remain the preferred method of finding a new job for candidates, according to new research from commercial recruiter Tate.

Tate’s survey of 400 people found that 70% of jobseekers would always rely on agencies to find a job, while 30% would use agencies alongside other platforms including social networking.

This echoes a report in BBC Breakfast News this morning, which showed that despite employment minister Jim Knight saying Jobcentre Plus services would be further improved, some of those interviewed feel job centres do not cater for professionals.

Minister Knight stated on air that Jobcentre Plus is not out to compete with “private recruitment agencies” but in certain circumstances jobseekers would be referred on to an agency.