Story perspectives

Job Seekers Pay for 'Reverse Recruiting' Amid Tight Market

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Job seekers are turning to 'reverse recruiting' and paying agencies to secure interviews amid a tight market.
In December 2025, the unemployment rate was 4.4%, and the average job search lasted 24.4 weeks.
Agencies charge fees ranging from hundreds to over $15,000 for services like resume optimization and networking.
Critics warn the practice could worsen inequality by favoring those who can pay and obscure qualified candidates through mass submissions.

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Story summary

Job seekers are turning to 'reverse recruiting' and paying agencies to secure interviews amid a tight market.
In December 2025, the unemployment rate was 4.4%, and the average job search lasted 24.4 weeks.
Agencies charge fees ranging from hundreds to over $15,000 for services like resume optimization and networking.
Critics warn the practice could worsen inequality by favoring those who can pay and obscure qualified candidates through mass submissions.