Hi Joel,

I've seen several of Maxim Group's postings on many job sites, but have not worked with them personally. Although, I am coming to a point where I too may have to consider working with such groups (there are many of them out there). I left my employeer almost a year ago, but luckily I was able to secure clients directly when I started out.


>Does anyone have experience with Maxim Group? The person I spoke with seemed >to be very straightforward and honest, letting me know upfront what is >guaranteed and what is not. I didn't sense any deception, but then again I'm >not a Jedi master. <g>


Although I haven't worked with Maxim in particular, I've talked to a lot of shops like them. Many of them have people who can talk-the-talk really well. I'm not saying that they are looking to pull one over on anyone, but like a few people on here have discussed, they make their money by getting a good chunk of the hourly rate the client is paying, and you are doing the work.


>What is a fair rate for working with a recruiter like Maxim? The job is W-2 and guaranteed for 12 months. I explained that I've heard rates online from $45/hr to $90/hr and up. She agreed that those were acceptable rates for an Independent Contractor, but that this was different since I was W-2, they find the job opportunity for me, and assume some of the risk. That seems to make sense, but I want to make sure I'm not getting swindled.
>


There are all kinds of rates getting thrown around, and they will get you as cheap as they can... or go to the next person if they think you're too high. You need to decide on a number that you are comfortable with, both to cover your expenses and what you feel your experience is worth.

I would imagine that since it is a W-2 contract, you are essentially becoming a Maxim Group employee, so you might want to consider what benefits they are offering you. One of your biggest expenses may be medical insurance if they are not offering it to you.

You may want to look at a few things Jerry mentioned to me in the Chatter Forum under Going Independent Thread #516327 Message #517911

Like he said, they will make you sign a contract. I would definitely ask them to send you a copy to review before you make any decisions. Chances are that if the client doesn't like you, for whatever reason, there will be an out for them to have Maxim get them someone else.


>For the most part, I'm a low risk person, so I'm not sure what I want to do. We did work out a rate that seemed to cover the extra risk and lower benefits I would receive, while still providing a decent income increase. Also, my current company's financial situation is still shaky. What do you think?