The responses in this whole sub-thread are a bit strange regarding the UK. The typical model is for end clients or employers to hire a recruitment agent to fin

The responses in this whole sub-thread are a bit strange regarding the UK. The typical model is for end clients or employers to hire a recruitment agent to find them either contract or permanent staff. For contract staff, the agency will invoice the customer, keep approximately 10% and pass the difference to the contractor. A contractor can choose to work as a LTD company or through an umbrella organisation depending on how much admin they want to take on and requirements of the client such as IR35. Consultancies are a slightly different model where they own the outcome and more of the risk, and are perceived to be bringing IP and value as well as just the resource. This is where there is a the big delta between what the contractor is paid and what the consultancy charge. In some cases, the agent can of course be disintermediated and the end client can recruit people directly. In 20 years working in the London contract market, I have never heard of a situation where a contractor hires an agent to go out and sell their services. You can however build a relationship with agents to remain front of mine when their customers (end clients) have a relevant opportunity. In a way, contract agents are operating as a match maker and making a living by taking a percentage of the day rate, so it is partly perception who is their customer. However, I think it's fair to say that they are hired by and represent the interests of the end client rather than the contractor. I know you didn't ask all of these questions, but it seemed like the best place to respond :-).