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This article is based on a conversation between Brad Bialy and Barry Asin on Take the Stage, a podcast/vodcast presented by Haley Marketing. For this episode and others search for “Secrets of Staffing Success” on your preferred podcast player or watch past episodes on YouTube.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is already everywhere, and its influence in how we work will only grow. Staffing professionals are now asking: Is AI coming for our jobs? Or is it a tool we should be embracing?
I had the opportunity to sit down with Barry Asin, co-author of Breaking Through: Leadership Disciplines from Top Performing Staffing Firms, and a frequent speaker at staffing-industry events. He shared his thoughts on AI’s real impact on the staffing industry—and why firms that embrace AI will come out ahead.
AI in Staffing: Just Another Tech Evolution?
Barry sees AI as part of a long history of technology-driven change in the staffing industry.
“Technology has always changed staffing,” Barry explained. “I remember when staffing firms were panicked about job boards. Then VMS came along, and people thought that would put firms out of business. The same thing happened with online platforms like Upwork. But each time, the industry adapted … and even thrived.”
When job boards or VMS took off, the best firms became power users of the technology, leveraging it to improve efficiency and serve clients better.
AI, Barry says, is no different.
“The best firms figure out where the opportunities are,” Barry said. “AI isn’t something to fear—it’s a tool that can make your business more efficient, more scalable, and more profitable.”
How AI is Already Changing Staffing
Automating Repetitive Tasks: AI is already speeding up candidate screening, email follow-ups, and resume parsing, freeing up recruiters for higher-value activities.
Enhancing Candidate Matching: AI-driven predictive analytics are improving job-to-candidate matching, reducing time-to-fill and increasing placement success rates.
Improving the Candidate Experience: Chatbots and AI-powered communication tools are making it easier to engage with candidates 24/7 without overloading recruiters.
The Real Threat: Doing Nothing
Barry believes the biggest threat to staffing firms isn’t AI itself. It’s ignoring AI and refusing to adapt. “The industry is incredibly adaptable,” Barry said. “But those who sit back and hope staffing won’t change are making a bad bet. The firms that thrive will be the ones that embrace AI, integrate it into their processes, and use it to provide better service to their clients.”
How to Stay Ahead of the AI Curve
Learn the tools: Experiment with AI-powered CRM systems, chatbots, and automation tools to see what works for your business.
Train your team: AI won’t replace recruiters, but recruiters who know how to use AI will replace those who don’t.
Focus on the human element: AI can streamline processes, but relationships still drive staffing success. Use AI to enhance, not replace, the personal touch.
Let’s Talk in Miami!
Want to hear more about how AI is reshaping staffing? Join us at SIA’s Executive Forum, March 10-13 in Miami Beach! I won’t be there, but David Searns and our team will, and we’d love to chat about what’s next for the industry.
Let’s connect! Reach out to schedule a time to meet in person.
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