The last time you looked for a job on your own, did it feel like a full-time job in and of itself? Countless hours were spent browsing job search websites. After looking over dozens of openings, there were only a handful to which you wanted to apply. You then had to create multiple versions of your resume and print several copies of each. With resumes sent in, you waited around for days or weeks only to hear back from fewer companies than you applied to, and they weren’t even the ones you wanted to join.

Now, for one reason or another, you’re again looking for a job. Before you repeat your last job hunting nightmare, consider the benefits of using a temp agency. Below are three of the top benefits of using a temp agency; but of course, there are many more.

1. Temp agencies are time and cost-effective

Temp agencies are free. You read that right, if you’re a job seeker, using a temp agency won’t cost you a dollar. Instead, the costs of the work they do are shoved off on your potential future employers. When using a temp agency, you submit a resume, answer a few questions, and let them know your work interests. From there, the agency’s employees look for job opportunities that match your skills, experience, and interests. All you do is wait for the job offers to come in and accept or decline them at your discretion.

2. Temp agencies are highly flexible

With access to hundreds of job openings with dozens of employers, a temp agency will help you find the job that meets your criteria. Whether you’re looking for a job in IT or retail, whether you want to work a 9-5 or graveyard shifts, whether you need work for three weeks or three years, temp agencies are the solution.

3. Temp agencies open doors to greater opportunities

If you excel in your temp job and enjoy it, you have the option of applying for a full-time, long term position. Not to mention, you may very well be offered a full-time position without applying for it yourself. However, if temp-to-hire isn’t your career strategy; temp agencies still provide incredible opportunities. Temp jobs, serve to build resumes, prevent gaps between employment, and allow you to try out specific career fields without serious commitment. All of which make you a more competitive job seeker.