Robert Half saw its revenues drop 8 percent in the first quarter as economic uncertainty caused businesses to delay hiring decisions and new projects.
The specialized talent solutions firm reported net income of $17 million for the quarter ending March 31, down from $64 million during the same period last year, according to financial results released Wednesday.
“Business confidence levels moderated during the quarter in response to heightened economic uncertainty over U.S. trade and other policy developments,” said M. Keith Waddell, president and chief executive officer at Robert Half.
Revenue fell to $1.352 billion from $1.476 billion in the first quarter of 2024. Earnings per share dropped to $0.17 from $0.61 year-over-year.
Longer decision cycles
The slowdown reflects broader caution in the job market affecting both employers and job seekers, with companies taking more time to make personnel decisions.
“Client and job seeker caution continues to elongate decision cycles and subdue hiring activity and new project starts,” said Waddell.
Despite these challenges, the company remains confident in its market position, citing its brand strength and business model that combines professional staffing with business consulting services, he said.
Employee recognition
The company highlighted employee engagement as a bright spot amid the financial downturn. Both Robert Half and its consulting division Protiviti were named to Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For list this year.
“We’d like to thank our employees across the globe for their resilience and unwavering commitment to success,” said Waddell.
The company was also recognized as one of America’s Most Innovative Companies by Fortune and one of America’s Best Large Employers by Forbes in 2025.
The specialized talent solutions firm provides contract talent and permanent placement in fields including finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, administrative and customer support, along with executive search services.
Business outlook
Management did not provide specific forward guidance in the release, though the company acknowledged the uncertain economic outlook. The company will host a conference call to discuss the results in more detail.
Founded in 1948, Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions and business consulting firm, according to company materials.
