In May of 2011 I graduated with stellar grades, determination and absolutely no experience. Unfortunately for me, experience is what you need to get a job. After 2 months of applying, I realized my lack of experience was holding me back. I needed someone to vouch for me and let companies know that I was capable. This is what Manning Personnel provided. My sister was the person who directed me to Colleen at Manning Personnel. I was truly at my wits end when I walked into the office. I had only a month left before my summer in Boston would be up and I would be financially forced to move home. My meeting with Colleen was completely rejuvenating. She was energetic and fast paced and she instantly picked up on the fact that I was starting to lose hope and patience with the entire process. She asked me all the right questions about the kind of job I wanted. She gave me advice on ways I could improve my resume. But she knew, as well as I did, that I was going to have to get an interview to land a job, because my resume wasn't going to cut it. I e-mailed her daily, and she responded daily. Colleen sent me on a few interviews and made sure I was thoroughly prepared. And I mean THOROUGHLY prepared. She would send me information about the company, and the position in particular. The following day she would give me a mock interview to prepare me for it. Several times she called me on her own time for the prep session. I knew she was as determined as I was to get me a job. Her patience and dedication were extraordinary. In every way she exceeded my expectation of a recruiter. The job I ended up getting was a perfect fit for me and the company. I now work in a wonderful environment with a salary that exceeded what I was willing to take. I have full benefits and great vacation time. I couldn't help but send Colleen the most beautiful edible arrangement I could find. I was jumping up and down when she called me to let me know I had been offered the job. More than anything my point in writing this review is to explain that right now the job market is really rough. Especially for newly graduated students. Without extensive experience and a 10-page resume, its hard to get companies to take you seriously. Manning Personnel acted as a bridge into the working world. They met with me, and realized I was capable, determined and ambitious. They took that and found me a job were I could prove myself. I have accomplished so many things at my company and have received the respect of my co-workers. I can only thank Manning Personnel, and particularly Colleen Manning, for providing me with that opportunity. I can assure anyone reading this review, if you are an intelligent and hard-working person, Manning Personnel will put their full effort into finding you an amazing job. read more

I first got into contact with Manning Personnel Group last year. I was already working as a data-entry temp on a long term assignment, so my interest was only in direct hire or temp-to-hire opportunities. During my first meeting with Colleen Manning, she completely restructured my resume (it had been cluttered, disorganized, and full of empty cliches) and gave me a ton of great advice for interviewing, what to look for in a position, etc. I had been out of the US job market for a number of years while teaching abroad, so I needed the help. Within a day or two, I was zipping across Boston and Cambridge on one interview after another, all of them at companies with progressive HR policies (great benefits, work-life balance, etc.) In the space of a week or so I must have had three or four interviews, and this is after trying on my own for months with only a telephone screening here and there. I got some great feedback from those interviews, but I had to turn down one or two for various reasons, and the others went to more qualified candidates. Colleen was always there for me, with plenty of advice and more places to try. She even agreed to talk after office hours when I couldn't fit in a meeting before 5:00. Before every interview, there was a pep talk. And we always discussed the interview afterwards. She had, and continues to have, my utmost confidence. Though I haven't worked as closely with other members of the Manning team, I feel the same way about them. I ended up finding a temp-to-perm position through another agency I had been using. However, I wouldn't have gotten that job without Colleen's help: she prepped me for the interview just a few hours before, and gave me some advice that I feel helped me land the position. I will never forget that. As it turns out, the job I landed didn't work out the way I had hoped, becoming instead a long-term temp position that I parted on amiable terms. I took some time to pursue an entrepreneurial opportunity, and before long I was looking to enter the market again. I remembered Colleen's constant support, so I called her. I told her I was looking for long-term assignments more so than direct hires. I landed a two-day assignment just a day after talking to Colleen again, and during that assignment she had me on a phone interview with another company. Before I knew it, I was at a long-term temp position with excellent pay, at an incredibly welcoming company that made me feel like I had been a part of the team for years. I have worked with a number of agencies. Manning tops the list. What sets them apart is the personal attention they gave me, and the high quality of positions they put in front of me. read more

Ok...Anyone ready for a relatively unbiased opinion here? I am frankly shocked at some of these reviews, I cannot believe that someone BASHING a company on the internet with such vehemence would be so bold as to comment on their "professionalism" (i.e. it is unprofessional to bad mouth a possible employer/colleague/networking contact...etc.). I realize that this site exists to inform John Q Public about specific services and venues, but come on... I have been working through Manning for over two years, and I have worked with 4 other temp/staffing agencies in Boston since moving here 3 years ago. The first agencies I worked with gave me a good insight into the talent and temporary staffing environment, and I believe that many of the reviews on this page are indicative of a lack of familiarity with that environment. It's cutthroat, fast-paced, and you need to jump on opportunities when they appear. You CANNOT expect an agenct to MAKE a job happen for you. I've worked almost exclusively with Kelly Manning for the better part of the last 2 years, with some assistance from her sisters and Donna Kurz. Throughout that time I have not had anything but positive experiences with them. Initially when I began my job search I was looking into the nonprofit sector, and Kelly introduced me to a position that was a perfect fit. When I was concerned about my finances and thinking of leaving the position, Kelly agreed to help compensate me by reducing the fee percentage the group received from me. In addition she began to put out feelers into other markets which eventually landed me my second temp position, with a nearly 200% increase in my salary. I have been working in my current position for OVER a year, and it has been an amazing experience. Due to resourcing issues and a lack of head count my current position was not going to be made full time, and I again reached out to Kelly to see what she could drum up...not 2 weeks (and a phone call and in person interview later) I had a competetive offer on the table, which I accepted. It is my firm belief that MPG is a fantastic firm, I have recommended them highly to my friends, and I will continue to do so. If you are looking for a professional, experienced, personable, and dedicated search firm, look no further. MPG is built on their relationships, and I proudly stand by my relationship with them. read more

Back in May, I found myself suddenly in the job market. I had gone through a recruiting agency once before- with a positive experience- so I immediately took to that route again. I initially met with the usuals...Beacon Hill Staffing, PSG, etc... (Because of their MASS postings on Craigslist) - But these companies are more or less like factories! Their process is very routine, they treat each candidate as a number, and all they care about is placing you, so they can get paid. Manning is the POLAR OPPOSITE. I got a call from Colleen Manning about my resume I had submitted to a Craigslist ad. She offered to meet with me the next morning. When I got to the Manning offices- I was really impressed! It wasn't the "factory" feel of a large Agency. The office was small and neat, and Colleen greeted and sat me herself. She really took the time to listen to the type of job I wanted, understand my goals, and type of work setting I had in mind. We sat and discussed different options, and she even offered to help me "spruce" up my resume. She took under consideration the fact that I wanted a permanent position, and didn't bother sending me to interviews for temp jobs.(Which other agencies ALWAYS do) She made sure to keep in touch, whether it was calling from her home phone, cell phone, sisters house or office. Wherever she was -Colleen made the extra effort to let me know as soon as a new opportunity arose or she had information about an interview. She made me feel like my job search was her #1 priority. A dedication that I hadn't gotten from any other agency! She made me feel confident in an unsettled job market. (which was HUGE) I did go on 3 interviews through Manning within a 2 week period. I ultimately found a job elsewhere, but would recommend and use Manning again in a heartbeat if I found myself needing a new job. Colleen was absolutely amazing from start to finish. She made sure I was comfortable going into interviews and followed up with me the minute they ended. I speak from experience- no other company in Boston matches Manning Personnel. I wish I could give 10 stars... but 5 is the max! read more

Manning Personnel Group is hands down the best staffing agency I have ever worked with!! I was let go from my job back in June, took the summer to spend with my son, and decided to get back into the game in September when he went back to school. I interviewed with 3 other agency before Manning; all promising to help me with my resume and to get me back to work. Months would go by before I would hear from one of them but by that time I was already working with Manning and what a difference!! My first meeting was with Colleen and we hit it off right away. Not only is she funny and sweet but honest. She took my resume from meh to amazing but never made me feel like I was being told what to do with it. She explained every change she thought I should make and why. She was spot on! She knows exactly what she's doing and my resume is now a well-read history of my employment and skills and less of a jumbled past to do list! After my resume was updated Colleen and I discussed exactly where it was that I was looking to go in my future. She wasn't just concerned with putting me some where so they could get paid. She cared about what I wanted and whether it made me happy or not. So much so that at one point I knew I had a job in the bag but knew in my heart I would not be happy there and really wanted a job I was still in the midst of initial interviews with. Colleen not only agreed with my decision of not accepting the position if they offered it but supported me whole heartedly and pushed for me in the position that I wanted. I am now currently temping at that company and am hoping that after the temp period is over that I will be on full time. Colleen is not a lone warrior though. Throughout my time working with Manning I have been close with most of the girls in the office and no matter when I called or what I needed someone was always willing to help me out! I am disappointed in the bad reviews I've seen here and don't believe they accuratly represent MPG at all. I will never use another staffing agency and will confidently recommend Manning to anyone who asks! read more

My words alone cannot express my gratitude for what Manning has done for me and my optimism towards finally having a career. After going through rounds of different temporary and staffing agencies, I found Manning on Yelp.com to be one of the few agencies that actually looked promising. And my instincts were spot on correct! Dana Bento called me the same week I applied for a position, set up an interview, and within a week I was meeting with her and Colleen in their cozy and dynamic office. I left there feeling hopeful (which is rare in this still "flickering" economy!) and knowing I made the right choice. Dana pulled through on her word 110%, always calling me when she had a fitting position, and checking in before and after an interview...talk about caring and good customer service! Kelly Manning also would coach me before an interview as well and pass on her "pearls of wisdom" about the prospective company and the position. It is more than fair to say I always felt prepared no matter what job or industry I was interviewing for thanks to Dana and Kelly. I was placed in an interview that both Dana and Kelly knew would be the "last interview" (out of the ten I had been on before) that I would go on, and they were right, I got the job! Even though it is a contract position, I am so very happy there and am certain I wouldn't have found a better company to work for had it not have been for Dana's faith in me and Kelly's persistence! I will always look back to Manning Personnel Group with sheer gratitude. Dana, Kelly and the Manning Group are not only extremely good at their craft, they also make you feel a part of their family that they are rooting for to find the perfect job. I would recommend Dana as a recruiter to anyone, she is amazing! And Manning's sound experience, vast knowledge and contact with Greater Boston's fine companies and firms is like no other. I am so grateful I looked on Yelp.com to find them, a true gem! read more

Bottom Line: Manning Personnel Group is THE ideal place to contact when looking for a job especially in the accounting/finance industry. Why: They are a small family owned business. Mr. Manning used to work in the industry and broke off to form this business. His daughters work for him at this company, so their is no sleazy completion that you get at other agencies you go through. They work their hardest to find you a job that fits what you are looking for. They will prep you through the entire process and give you feedback as well. Every single person who works in this company is dedicated to not only their job, also the company they work for and us the clients. You will definitely notice this! What separates them from others: I have dealt (and still get random cold calls!) from many many many obnoxious recruiters. I used to think that real estate agents were the sleazy embellishers until I met the recruiting market in Boston. I am sure most of you know what I am talking about, if not then.. just wait. My experience: Manning was entirely the opposite. I talked with Mary Manning. She was respectful of my time and my limitations (for talking at work for an example) and really took to the time to know my skill set, what I would be capable of and what company matched all of that. I had a wonderful first interview. Her father, the owner of the company actually took the time as well to call me and prep me for that interview because since he used to be in the industry he had personal relations with many of these people. (I was applying for accounting jobs btw). I cannot say enough. You will feel like you are talking to your very very professional best bud when dealing with this company. It was the most positive experience I have had in this city dealing with recruiters It would be in everyone's best interest to take the time to call them. read more

If you're looking for a staffing firm that truly cares about your career path long-term and your quality of life in general, this is the place for you. Being from out of state, from a small town/university at that, attempting to find employment in Boston/Cambridge can be a semi-intimidating endeavor. Manning Personnel Group gave me piece of mind and calmed any fears I may have began with. In my professional, as well as personal life, relationship building has always been at the forefront of my priorities, and I can honestly say that that is exactly what I encountered from the first call that I received from this wonderful group of people. From the very first interview you can feel that they are ALL on your side and want what's best for you personally. Not only did they offer me a great amount of temp. work to hold me over, but every interview that I was sent on was completely in line with my career goals. And one of the best parts is that you never have to feel afraid to say no if for some rare reason you aren't on board with one of their opportunities. This firm also offers very beneficial feedback on every step of the process so that you're able to learn from your experiences to assist you in finding more success moving forward. That goes without saying that if you work hard for them they will do nothing short of work hard for you. Always keep in mind that they are attempting to place you in a competitive market, but if you want your best chance for success Manning really is a bunch of magic makers. Although everyone at Manning is just wonderful, I will thoroughly miss working closely with Ms. Ellie Kahle on a daily basis, as well as Ms. Kate Ciullo. I am nothing short of thankful for these ladies and I was very fortunate to have them assisting me with such an important life task. read more

MANNING IS PHENOMENAL! They are personable, caring, efficient, and honest. I received a call back from them within 20 minutes of emailing them. Do yourself a favor and STICK WITH MANNING!!!! I'VE WORKED WITH THREE OTHER FIRMS AND I SHOULD HAVE COME DIRECTLY TO MANNING. They do not work on commission like the other firms, so they are free to simply help you find the right fit. They immediately welcomed me into their (warm, friendly) office for an interview where they were able to get a clear picture of my needs (even though I didnt really have a clear picture myself) by asking great questions and capitalizing on their years of experience and expertise. I worked with Caitlin and WOW she is amazing! I feel like I have a big sister showing me the ropes through the job search process. The whole office has that vibe. Its only been a few days and I've already had two interviews. Manning.... - Helped me critique my resume for the position - Gave me Dos and Donts and the basic low-down for the interview (GREAT pointers that I will keep with me forever) the night before hand to get me prepared - Makes themselves available to me following my interviews to debrief and discuss the interview. - Is patient and encourages you to follow your gut until you find that perfect job I'M CONVINCED THAT THESE NEGATIVE REVIEWS ARE FABRICATED FROM OTHER FIRMS, ETC. ONES OF THESE REVIEWS IS TOTAL NONSENSE...THE GIRL AT MANNING THAT IT REFERS TO HAD A BABY A FEW WEEKS BACK SO THERE IS NO WAY THAT THE CLAIM TO HAVE MET HER DURING THE MENTIONED TIME FRAME IS TRUE. I only have good things to say about manning read more

If you're looking to find a recruiting agency that genuinely cares about the needs of the candidates they work with, then please consider connecting with somebody at Manning Personnel. I had the pleasure of working with Helane and Kelly during two searches. During my first search, I took a position from a different recruiting agency, but Helane was there for me when I needed some unbiased advice. This was very unique. After two months into that position and realizing that this was definitely not a good fit for me, I called Helane and she was so understanding, supportive, and IMMEDIATELY jumped on getting my resume out there. She and Kelly were SO supportive of endorsing my candidacy to their clients, and I was employed within a month with my dream job. Throughout my searches, Helane and I were in constant communication. Even when she hadn't heard from companies after I had interviewed, she would call me to update me. I feel so grateful to have met Helane, and she will be a lifetime friend of mine. One very unique thing about Manning is that they develop strong relationships with their clients, and hold their clients to a certain standard of integrity. I would not have been able to find this position without Manning, and for that, I am eternally grateful. I had been exhausted, burnt out, and mentally and physically drained by working for executives that did not respect my basic boundaries. Helane and Kelly found me a position that allows me to be home at dinnertime and to spend time with my loved ones on the weekends. That alone is worth it's weight in gold (amongst other amazing things about the company that they placed me with). read more

Manning Personnel Group is an excellent temp agency. I spent a great deal of time researching temp agencies and went on a number of temp agency interviews, and Manning was without a doubt, the best. I say that Manning is the best because not only are they fantastic at what they do, but they truly give you the time of day every step of the way in finding a job. First of all, they got back to me promptly - within 5 days of me getting in touch with them, I had an in person interview. When I went for my interview with them, I immediately got the sense that they were a warm, personable, family operated business, which I truly appreciated. I sat down with Caitlin, who took the time to go through my resume with me and shape it into something both professional and marketable. Aside from helping me with my resume, Caitlin also took a great deal of time just getting to know me. Unlike interviews with other agencies, where I left feeling like "just another random person in need of a job" I left from my interview with Manning feeling that they were really going to work for me; a very positive feeling. Within another 5 days I was set up with a fantastic company and I have been working there ever since. Up until the day I signed my contract at the current job Manning placed me in, the entire Manning team was there every step of the way with support and guidance; and even now that I am employed I know that they would be there for me if I was ever in need of support again. They really are the best of the best! I would recommend anyone (and I have!) looking into a temp agency to go to Manning Personnel Group in a heartbeat. read more

Where do I even begin to express my gratitude Ellie? Ellie's impact on my career journey was nothing short of phenomenal, and I am forever grateful for her unwavering support and expertise. From the very first interaction, Ellie exuded warmth, genuine care, and a deep understanding of my aspirations. She took the time to listen attentively to my career goals, patiently guiding me through every step of the process. Her unwavering belief in my potential gave me the confidence to aim higher and dream bigger. Throughout the entire recruitment process, Ellie's dedication was truly remarkable. They meticulously crafted a personalized strategy to showcase my strengths and unique qualities to potential employers. Their attention to detail and thoroughness ensured that my profile stood out among the competition. But what truly sets this Ellie apart is her heartfelt investment in my success. She went beyond her professional duties, providing invaluable guidance, mentorship, and genuine encouragement. Her unwavering support during challenging moments reminded me that I was not alone in this journey. If you are searching for a recruiter who genuinely cares about your dreams and aspirations, look no further. Working with Ellie will not only change your career trajectory but also make you believe in the power of genuine mentorship and support. To Ellie, thank you from the bottom of my heart for being the guiding light during my professional journey. You are truly an exceptional recruiter, and I am forever grateful for the positive impact you have made in my life. read more

I worked with Mary during my most recent job search, and she and the Manning Personnel Group helped me find an excellent position. Mary was extremely flexible when scheduling times to meet and talk (before and after work hours), and always promptly answered my calls, emails and texts. She gave me advice on improving my resume in order to catch the eye of potential employers; and it wasn't generic advice, it was tailored to the job sector and clients she obviously has a lot of exposure to and knows well. She answered all my questions before the interview with the employer and called the night before to walk me through everything. I had hesitations about leaving my current job for the new position, and Mary talked me through those worries, was very understanding but also extremely practical. It was clear that several members of the firm were involved with the placement and the feedback I received from my new employer, of the process with Manning was also positive. After I decided to accept the position, Mary prepared me for all possible scenarios of the offer and package which made the process seem easier (less back and forth, because she already knew the answers to the 'what if's). I really feel as though I was listened to and appreciated with Manning. Mary seems to be a good and accurate judge of character, picked up on my strengths and preferences and matched me with a company and direct superior with whom I will work well. I have spoken well of them and highly recommended to all my friends looking for work (or to keep in mind for the future)! read more

I. Love. Manning. More specifically, I love Kerri. If you are looking for temp or temp-to-perm work they are definitely the best in the city. Ask for Kerri. She's super personable and always kept me up to date. I never felt ignored or had to track her down. Even if I wasn't on an assignment that week she would call anyway just to check in and see how I was doing. She got me a bunch of temp jobs which included: a design firm in the south end, an advertising firm in chinatown, a pr firm in cambridge, and a finance company in downtown crossing. Pretty money locations, right? She got a me temp job in the HR department of a software development company in the financial district at the beginning of May. I am now a full-time employee! The CEO of the company liked me enough to make me his executive assistant (a position that usually requires at least 5 years experience...and I'm a 2008 college grad...with an art history degree). There is definitely no way I would have landed this amazing job if it weren't for Kerri and the Manning sisters. Colleen Manning would even call me before I went on interviews to prepare me if Kerri wasn't available or because she had relationship with the company I was interviewing with. I would recommend them over any other staffing firm in boston (esp. after hearing the horror stories about psg). I owe them so much for getting me my first big-girl job out of college. Kerri is the best and I'm naming my first-born after her for all she's done for me! read more

Let me start by saying I have tried lots of agencies but have really had no luck. I have gone to some agencies to interview with them and then they never call me for any jobs. I have had such wonderful experiences with Manning! I have been working with Mary since I moved out here in 2008. Mary got me a couple interviews and then a temp position. Then she got me a quick 3 week position that turned into a 3 year job! When that was over, I tried getting something on my own for about a year and nothing happened. I finally decided to go to Manning again. I got married so my name changed and I emailed my resume to Manning and Mary saw it and remembered me, just from my resume! Even though my last name was changed. That's almost 4 years later and she remembered me. I am working with Mary again and she has sent me on a whole bunch of interviews that were for great companies. She has also gotten me a couple temp jobs just so I could get some money in my pocket! And now again, she has found something great for me and I start this week. Mary also calls me before interviews just to give me pointers and always lets me know what's going on at the company so I'm prepared. Mary rocks!! If I ever need to get a new job, I am calling Manning immediately! Thank you Manning for all you have done for me. BTW, I have no problem with communication from Manning. They always get back to me and Mary even calls me on the weekend if something comes up! read more

When I was laid off several months ago, I signed up with many agencies in and around Boston. But, when I first went to Manning's offices to meet with them, I knew something was different about them. Not only are they a family-owned business, where several of the siblings work with their father which, in of itself, speaks volumes about them - but they just stand out from all of the rest of the agencies. They may be smaller in size, but they are definitely bigger in heart! I worked specifically with Colleen Manning, who, I must say, is the BEST. I hit it off with her immediately - like a friend I had known for years. She is someone you want on your side, because she fights for you. She would not send me on jobs, just to send me. She cared about finding the right fit for me and for her client companies. This is not true of the other agencies. They just want to place you somewhere, anywhere. Colleen and Kelly both spent time with me during their off-time -- weekends and nights - when they could have, and should have, been with their families. But they wanted to prep me and make me feel comfortable before going to an interview. Those big agencies don't do that either. I am now at a great company that I would have never known had I not met Colleen Manning. I wholeheartedly, sincerely, and with full confidence HIGHLY recommend Manning -- they truly are BEST OF BOSTON!! read more

I was connected to Colleen and Manning Personnel Group after I applied to a random job posting on Craigslist. Colleen contacted me and was very up front and honest about the fact that I would most likely get the job, but also that I was over qualified and probably wouldn't be happy in that particular position. She invited me to meet with her anyway, and immediately hit the ground running to find me a position that I would be happy in. Colleen helped me re-work my resume, and made it clear that she was working to find me a career, not just a job. I can't thank Colleen enough for her help throughout my job search process, even though (and ESPECIALLY because) it wasn't a very long process! I first met with Colleen on a Wednesday morning, and had an offer for a temp-to-perm position on Friday! I am now in my fourth week at this company, and I couldn't be happier. When we started working together, I was becoming discouraged and desperate, and getting frighteningly close to the end of my resources. So Colleen could not have come in at a better time. I knew that if I just kept plugging away at my job search, something would work out, and that something was Manning! Colleen and her brother Tim have been wonderful, and I thank them so much for everything. I would absolutely recommend Manning Personnel Group (and Colleen specifically!!) to anyone who is looking for a great career. read more