A new report from Bullhorn reveals that staffing firms embracing artificial intelligence are experiencing significant advantages in today’s competitive market. According to the GRID 2025 Industry Trends Report, firms using AI to improve placement time and job matches are twice as likely to have increased revenue last year compared to those that haven’t adopted the technology.
Other key findings from the latest report include:
- Top-performing firms are 57% more likely to be in advanced stages of digital transformation.
- Nearly 70% of firms have either purchased an AI solution, built their own, or are experimenting with generative AI.
- AI and automation tools can save recruiters up to 17 hours weekly.
Productivity breakthrough
Recruiters currently spend an average of 14.6 hours each week looking for candidates to fill roles. But AI-powered search and match capabilities could save recruiters 4.5 hours weekly on candidate searches, plus an additional 3.6 hours on screening and administrative tasks.
“2025 is the year that AI becomes mainstream for the staffing industry,” said Jason Heilman, SVP of Product – Automation & AI at Bullhorn.
Strategic implementation
Despite the clear benefits, 36% of firms still say data limitations prevent them from maximizing AI’s benefits. This underscores the importance of data hygiene and system integration as prerequisites for successful AI adoption.
Competitive edge
Firms leveraging AI technologies are seeing dramatic improvements in placement timelines, becoming 90% more likely to place candidates within 20 days — a critical advantage when 80% of candidates expect placement in less than 20 days.
For staffing firm leaders looking to drive growth in 2025, the message is clear: strategic investment in AI and automation across the recruitment lifecycle is no longer optional but essential for maintaining competitiveness and driving revenue growth.
