Staffing Employment Trends in Q2 2025
In the second quarter of 2025, the staffing industry in the U.S. has exhibited intriguing trends as reported by the American Staffing Association. While the sector employed an average of just under two million temporary and contract workers per week, marking a slight decline from the previous quarter, the opposite was true for sales figures, which demonstrated a modest increase.
According to the latest data, staffing employment witnessed a decrease of 0.4%. This reduction translates to approximately 8,300 fewer workers compared to the first quarter of 2025. Generally, this time of year reflects a seasonal pattern where staffing numbers typically decline following the first quarter. However, this second quarter's figures are noteworthy for the paradox of declining employment against rising sales. The total sales in the first quarter of 2025 stood at $28.5 billion, showcasing a decrease of 8.0% compared to the same period last year. Remarkably, this decline is the smallest year-over-year drop since early 2023.
Richard Wahlquist, the CEO of the American Staffing Association, commented on the situation: "Ongoing concerns regarding the economy, tariffs, and geopolitical tensions have resulted in employers hesitating to expand their workforce. Staffing firms have been crucial in assisting organizations to navigate through this uncertainty, offering flexible employment solutions and consultancy services."
Wahlquist further emphasized that job seekers are encouraged to adopt diverse strategies to set themselves apart in a competitive job market. The current economic landscape necessitates that candidates engage in multifaceted approaches to enhance their prospects.
In addition, the American Staffing Association is dedicated to supporting the staffing, recruiting, and workforce solutions industry across the United States. Through various initiatives such as advocacy, education, and research, ASA aims to promote high standards within the industry.
To stay informed about ongoing trends and variations in the staffing field, those interested can delve deeper into the quarterly ASA Staffing Employment and Sales Survey and follow ASA's research updates on platforms like Twitter.
For further insights into the staffing industry or to explore this quarterly report, including statistical analysis and expert opinions, visit
American Staffing Association.
In an environment marked by uncertainty, adaptability remains key for both employees and staffing firms. As the market continues to shift, keeping an eye on these employment trends could provide crucial insights for businesses and professionals alike.