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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.
The staffing industry has faced some serious challenges over the past few years. From the pandemic’s impact on hiring to shifting economic conditions, firms have had to adapt quickly to stay competitive.
So, what’s next?
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 insights on the biggest challenges and biggest opportunities staffing firms should prepare for in 2025.
The Biggest Short-Term Challenges for Staffing Firms
Barry believes staffing firms are facing unique pressures right now.
“Typically, when the economy grows, staffing grows with it,” Barry said. “But in 2023 and 2024, GDP was up, unemployment was low, and yet staffing was declining. That’s unusual.”
Here’s why:
Post-Pandemic Corrections: Industries that boomed during the pandemic (like healthcare and logistics) have since corrected, leading to temporary slowdowns in hiring.
Election-Year Uncertainty: Many companies paused hiring decisions leading up to the election, waiting to see how things would shake out.
AI & Automation Pressures: More companies are exploring tech-driven hiring solutions, forcing staffing firms to evolve or risk being left behind.
How to Overcome These Challenges
Despite these pressures, Barry believes staffing firms that adapt strategically will come out ahead. “The firms that succeed in 2025 will be the ones that stay flexible, leverage new technology, and focus on delivering real value to their clients,” he said.
The Biggest Long-Term Opportunities for Staffing Firms
While there are challenges, Barry also sees major growth opportunities for firms that position themselves well.
Tech-Enhanced Staffing: “AI isn’t replacing staffing firms. It’s a tool that can make firms more efficient and effective. The ones that integrate AI into their workflow will thrive.”
Specialization & Niche Markets: “The firms that dominate in 2025 won’t be trying to do everything. They’ll be the best at something.”
Client-Centric Growth: “The staffing firms that become trusted advisors, not just order fillers, will win more business.”
What’s Next? Get Ahead of the Curve in 2025
Barry’s advice to staffing firms: Be proactive.
Analyze your clients’ hiring needs and anticipate changes before they happen.
Invest in training and development to keep your team ahead of the competition.
Leverage AI and automation wherever it makes sense. But don’t lose the human touch.
Let’s Talk in Miami!
Want to hear more about how to stay competitive in 2025? 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.
The post The Biggest Threats & Opportunities for Staffing in 2025 appeared first on Haley Marketing Group.
