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Internal analysis shows significant drop in recruiter demand from 2024 to 2025, while ATS systems filter 75% of applications before human review
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, UNITED STATES, January 28, 2026 /-- SignalHire has released internal hiring data revealing a dramatic decline in traditional recruitment positions between 2024 and 2025, signaling a fundamental shift in how companies approach talent acquisition—and how job seekers must adapt their strategies.
The Recruitment Landscape Shift
Analysis of SignalHire’s 850M+ professional database shows substantial decreases across standard recruiting titles:
- Recruitment operations and management roles: significant decline
- Traditional sourcing positions: marked decrease
- General recruiter demand: notable contraction
However, not all categories declined equally. Executive/Leadership Recruiting grew 15.56%, and Campus/Early Careers Recruiting increased 11.11%—indicating companies are maintaining strategic hiring while reducing generalist positions.
The ATS Problem
The shift comes as applicant tracking systems create unprecedented barriers. Major corporations now receive an average of 250 applications per open position, with ATS filtering approximately 75% before any human review occurs.
Meanwhile, candidates who contact recruiters directly via email receive interview invitations at nearly three times the rate of those relying exclusively on job board applications.
What This Means for Job Seekers
SignalHire’s analysis suggests job seekers should:
- Target growth areas: Campus and executive recruiters show higher demand and greater receptivity to direct outreach
- Adjust expectations: Traditional recruiting roles face higher volume relative to open positions—personalization becomes critical
- Consider alternative pathways: Reaching hiring managers directly may prove more effective as companies downsize recruitment teams
About SignalHire
SignalHire provides contact intelligence solutions with 850M+ professional profiles for recruiting, sales, and talent acquisition teams worldwide.
Media Contact
For inquiries regarding this analysis:
Email: press@signalhire.com
Website: https://www.signalhire.com
Mary Ivory
SignalHire Sp. z o. o.
+1 209-437-3846
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Distributed by Pressat
No media attached. Please contact SignalHire Sp. z o. o. for more information.