Key takeaways:
Technology investment separates winners: Fast-growth agencies invest heavily in strategic technology — 62% plan new software purchases vs. 37% overall, with focus on automation and AI for revenue-generating functions. Referrals are critical: 86% of fast-growth firms have formal referral programs (vs. 60% of no-growth agencies), with 71% rating referrals as “extremely important” to their business success. Strategic AI adoption drives results: Fast-growth agencies are more strategic with AI implementation, prioritizing revenue-generating functions like candidate qualification (70% vs. 51% overall) and focusing on measurable ROI from their technology investments.
While 27% of staffing agencies reported