What Q1 Taught Us—and Why Q2’s a Different Beast

Featuring: Matt Massucci, Founder & CEO of Hirewell

When Q1 wrapped up, we knew it wasn’t going to be the victory lap we’d hoped for. But Q2? It’s turning out to be a different story.

On the latest episode of The Hirewell Update, we brought in our favorite (and only) guest, Matt Massucci, to break down how the year’s shaping up across hiring markets and within our own teams.

January & February: Soft Start, Strong Recovery

We kicked off 2025 with high hopes and cautious optimism. Then January and February happened—soft months with slower deal volume and some nervous energy in the air. But by March, we bounced back fast: up 25% month-over-month and nearly closing the gap year-over-year.

Yes, global curveballs like Liberation Day tariffs created hiccups. One week of new search launches dropped to a third of normal. But unlike past disruptions, this one didn’t derail us. It passed. We stabilized.

Q1 by the Numbers

• Corporate Functions: Deal volume up 60%, but billings only up 3%. Why? More interim hires, fewer high-level roles. Still, nearly half of our new logos came from this team.
• Go-To-Market: Deal volume up, billings slightly down. Q2 is already looking stronger. A few massive hiring engagements (hello, retail associates) skewed averages, but the team’s adding fresh logos fast.
• Industrial: Lower volume, higher billings. That’s thanks to solution-based projects and higher-level searches.
• Tech: Still soft, but stable. And these days, “not going down” is a win.

Looking Ahead: Momentum Is Real

April outperformed March. May’s already looking solid. Searches launched and offer acceptances, the two forward indicators we watch closely, both spiked in late April and early May.

That’s not just numbers on a spreadsheet. We feel it. More new clients. Less time to catch our breath. Even Emily didn’t have time for lunch. (Yes, that’s a metric now.)

For Job Seekers and Employers Alike: Now Is the Time

If you’re looking for a job: Be active. Opportunities are real again.

If you’re hiring: Move fast. The market’s changing week to week. If you wait, your best candidates will be gone.

And if you’re trying to read the tea leaves on what Q3 will bring? So are we. We’ll bring Matt back soon to hold us accountable for these predictions.

Until then, ride the wave while it’s rising.

Tune in to episode 32 of The Hirewell Update at talentinsights.hirewell.com or visit hirewell.com to learn more about how we can help you hire smarter.

Emily Goor

Ryan Brown