Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve never used a staffing service before. What are the benefits?

At The CPI Group, we partner with hundreds of companies. We recruit for positions unadvertised and unavailable through other mediums. In addition, our highly experienced recruiters will be able to help you find the company that’s the best match for your skills and interests.

Why can’t you reveal the name of the companies with openings?

Our clients ask us to keep their identity in confidence until they are ready to interview an applicant. We have found this to work well for them, as they do not want to deal directly with an applicant until the interview process begins.

Will I be charged a fee to use your service?

No, you will never be charged for utilizing our services.

How do I apply for a job through The CPI Group?

Simply click here. There, you will be able to complete the online application and paste a copy of your resume.

What do I need to have available when I complete the online application?

  • Detailed job description of your duties performed at the companies you have been employed by.
  • Your supervisors’ names, telephone numbers and email addresses, if available.
  • A resume, if you are going to attach one. (You must complete the application by filling in each job you have worked; your resume will not automatically populate the correct fields.)
  • Explain any gaps in your employment history.
  • Be accurate with your information, it will be verified and needs to reflect the same when we speak with your previous employers.

What do I need to bring with me when I am called in to process or I stop by the office to complete paperwork?

It is very important to bring the following information with you when coming into the office for processing:

  • Résumé
  • You will need to bring reference letters from your previous employers if unable to provide names and telephone numbers of your previous employers or your direct supervisor. These letters will need to be typed, dated and signed. They also can be emailed directly to The CPI Group as well at recruiter@cpi-group.com.
  • If you have served in the military, a copy of your DD214 will be required.
  • Bring two forms of ID: Picture ID, i.e., a valid driver’s license, valid student ID, valid passport, or valid state ID, and for your second ID: Your original social security card and/or your original birth certificate.
  • Be prepared to take a drug screen urinalysis test administered by our staff and have a criminal background check performed.
  • Bring copies of any certifications or licenses.

How can I update my application?

  • You may log back into the account you made when applying and update any information.
  • If you have misplaced your login information you may call our line 662-328-1042, ext. 100 and we will provide it for you.

How often do I need to update my application?

  • Any time you have a change of address or contact number.
  • If you have worked additional jobs that are currently not listed on your application.
  • If it has been six months or more since you have spoken to us last.

What kind of jobs do you offer?

We offer full-time, part-time & temporary positions in a variety of fields including, but not limited, to industrial, technical, office, medical and professional. Click here for a list of frequently filled positions.

What does Contract-to-Hire mean?

Contract-to-Hire means you have been assigned to a possible permanent position. During the Contract-to-Hire period, you will be on CPI’s payroll for 500 hours. At the end of the Contract-to-Hire period, the client may elect to hire you onto their payroll for a permanent position. It is possible during the Contract-to-Hire period that the client may elect to bring you on permanently before the 500 hours is completed. The possibility of becoming a permanent employee of the client is dependent solely upon you and your ability to fulfill the job obligations and meet the client’s expectations.

What does Trial Hire mean?

Our client has recruited you and will send you to us to be fully processed (see Our Hiring Process) and give them recommendations on your eligibility to fulfill the job obligations for possible permanent employment. If the client chooses you for the position, you will then be on CPI’s payroll for 3-6 weeks (probationary period), depending on the type of position. At the end of the Trial Hire period, the client may elect to hire you onto their payroll for a permanent position. It is possible during the Trial Hire period that the client may elect to bring you on permanently before the probationary is completed. The possibility of becoming a permanent employee of the client is dependent solely upon you and your ability to fulfill the job obligations and meet the client’s expectations.

What does Direct Hire mean?

Direct hire means a CPI client is looking to possibly hire someone directly onto their payroll without the probationary period of the Contact-to-Hire or the Trial Hire programs. If you are fully processed with CPI and we determine your skills and experience are a good fit with the client’s job expectations, we will check with you to see if you would be interested in the position. If you are interested, we will then forward your information to our client for consideration. The CPI Group will then work with you and our client to schedule interviews and facilitate the hiring process. If our client decides to make you an offer, and you accept, you will work directly for our client.

How soon can I start, will you have a job for me today?

Job availability changes on a daily basis. Once our application process is complete, you will be considered based on your qualifications, skills and preferences. Our goal is to provide our applicants with the most exposure to the best opportunities in the local marketplace. Some assignments begin immediately, however, the selection process must be completed thoroughly before any new employee can begin working for our clients.

What is involved in the application process?

Before we compare your skill set with potential opportunities, you will need to complete an online application. You will be asked to provide a complete work history as well as answer all questions on the application thoroughly. We will need telephone numbers where your previous employers or supervisors can be contacted. If unable to provide adequate contact information, letters of reference from your previous employers will be required. Additional paperwork will need to be completed, so allow yourself at least an hour for processing. Candidates must also pass a criminal background check as well as a drug screen urinalysis check. If you are interested in a clerical position, you will need to call the office and make an appointment for skills testing which can include a typing test, Word and Excel knowledge, data entry and other related clerical responsibilities.

After the application process is complete, you may be scheduled to interview with a recruiter. During the interview, you will have the opportunity to discuss your interests and skills. At that time, our recruiter will discuss not only what specific skills you have, but also find out more about your experiences in job-related settings.

Once you have completed the interview process, your references and criminal background will be checked. When an employment opportunity becomes available that you are qualified for, you will be called to see if you are interested, and then your resume or work bio will be forwarded onto the client for review. If you are selected for a position, you will be given an orientation prior to starting the new assignment.

What if I am not interested in a certain position when it is offered, can I turn it down?

Yes, not every job will meet your expectations. If you are not interested in a position, feel free to decline. We will continue to offer positions to you based on your skill set and preferences.

What if I have accepted an assignment and decide it is not for me?

We realize that not every position is a good fit for you; sometimes you do not know until you have tried the position. If you are on a job and decide it is not going to work for you, you must contact us immediately. You may be asked to stay long enough for us to find a replacement, but we will attempt to remedy the situation as quickly as possible. As with any interaction, communication is the key. We expect open communication from you and you can expect the same from The CPI Group.

How long are assignments?

Assignments vary from a few hours to days, weeks, months, and in many cases, lead to full-time placement. When we have a job order, we will provide you with the approximate length of time it will last. If you decide to accept the job, please ensure that you are available for the full length of the assignment.

Who determines the rate I am paid?

The pay rates we offer are decided by our clients. Pay levels vary at each company and are based on location, job description, candidate experience and market conditions.

Do I need a resume?

It is highly recommended that you bring a resume or written job history along with you when completing paperwork in our office. If possible, attach your resume to the online application. Our recruiters can easily, effectively and quickly place you in an open position if you have a resume available to send out to prospective employers. All clerical and professional positions require a resume.

How can I increase my chances of obtaining a position with you?

Fill out your application carefully and completely. Explain truthfully any gaps in your employment history, and make sure to have your employment work history references for the recruiter with whom you speak. Project a positive attitude when interviewing, and keep your contact information accurate so we are able to easily reach you.

Who do I call when I am going to be absent or late for an assignment?

You must first contact the client you are working for and then contact The CPI Group. You can call our office during business hours, Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm, we have a voicemail for after hours and during lunch, and we have a cell phone for true emergency after hours calls as well.

How much notice is required to leave an assignment?

We require at least a full week’s notice prior to leaving an assignment before its scheduled end date, and you are responsible to complete the entire week. Failure to do so will result in payroll reduction to minimum wage.

Have Another Question?

If you have a question that was not answered above, please contact us at recruiter@cpi-group.com.