Hi Cookie: Great questions! I think temp agencies are a great way to get work quickly; with that in mind, it might not be the best route to go if you want higher pay, since you really don't have wiggle room to negotiate a salary. I say check out your local temp agency to see what's available near you. Decide if it's better to get a job faster and then work your way up, or apply for jobs through company sites and negotiate your salary. Hope this advice helps - let me know if you have any questions!