Working with STAIRS - People Advisors: A Candidate Guide for 2026
STAIRS - People Advisors is a Portugal-based human resources consultancy specializing in recruitment, selection, and talent management. They serve professionals in consulting, business services, healthcare, and education. The most important thing to know is that they prioritize long-term talent alignment, meaning they look for candidates who fit the specific cultural and strategic needs of their clients.
Who pays STAIRS - People Advisors
Paid by the employer, not by you.
STAIRS - People Advisors earns a fee from the company that hires you, usually a share of your first-year salary or a margin on your contract rate. Their client is that company.
What that means for you
Expect roles that fit their open vacancies before roles that fit your plan. Ask which company a role is for before your CV goes anywhere, and apply direct where you can.
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Sectors we track
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Markets we track
Source: JobMentis Agency Directory, 29,247 agencies across 102 markets, 2026.
Their side
Operates in
What sectors and roles does STAIRS - People Advisors focus on?
STAIRS focuses on high-impact roles within consulting, business services, healthcare, and education sectors across Portugal. They handle a range of seniority levels, from specialized individual contributors to management positions. Their expertise lies in matching professional skill sets with the specific operational demands of these four core industries.
Where you meet
How does the staffing process work for a candidate?
The process begins with a review of your profile against current or upcoming client mandates. If your background aligns, you will undergo an initial screening to discuss your experience and career goals. Successful candidates then move through a structured assessment phase, which may include competency-based interviews or professional evaluations before being presented to the hiring organization.
What should I expect once I engage with the agency?
Once you are in their system, communication is typically triggered by specific role openings that match your profile. You should not expect daily check-ins, as their consultants work on a mandate-driven basis. The hiring company pays the agency fee, so there is never a cost to you as a candidate for their placement services.
Your side
How can I get on the radar of the STAIRS team?
To stand out, ensure your CV highlights specific achievements relevant to consulting, healthcare, or business services rather than just listing duties. Use industry-standard terminology for your sector to ensure your profile is captured during keyword searches. Proactively connecting with their consultants on professional platforms and keeping your profile updated with your most recent certifications is the best way to remain visible.
Is STAIRS - People Advisors the right fit for my job search?
STAIRS is an excellent partner if you are seeking a career move within their four core sectors and value a consultative approach to talent management. If you are looking for rapid, high-volume placement in unrelated industries like retail or manufacturing, you may find their specialized focus too narrow. They are best suited for candidates who want a partner that understands the nuances of professional services and healthcare environments.
How to work with STAIRS - People Advisors: candidate playbook
- Tailor your CV to emphasize results within consulting or healthcare sectors.
- Use industry-specific keywords to ensure your profile ranks in their database.
- Update your profile whenever you earn a new professional certification.
- Ask the consultant specifically about the company culture of the hiring client.
- Maintain a professional, responsive tone in all email correspondence.
Frequently asked questions
Does registering with STAIRS prevent me from applying to other roles independently?
No, you are free to apply to other positions independently. However, if you apply to a role that STAIRS is actively managing for a client, you should inform them to avoid duplicate submissions which can complicate your candidacy.
What happens to my personal data once I submit my CV?
Your data is stored in their talent database to be considered for current and future opportunities. They operate under strict data protection regulations in Portugal, ensuring your information is only shared with potential employers with your explicit consent.
How should I follow up if I have not heard back after an interview?
Wait at least one week after your expected feedback date before sending a concise, professional follow-up email. This shows interest without appearing overly persistent, allowing the consultant time to gather updates from the client.
What is the difference between a staffing agency and a headhunter?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, agencies like STAIRS often manage a broader range of roles and provide ongoing talent management services. Headhunters typically focus exclusively on executive-level or highly niche passive candidate searches.
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General guidance for candidates. JobMentis is not affiliated with the agencies listed.