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Job Seekers Now Pay Recruiters in Shifting Landscape

2/23/2026

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Story summary
  • The United States (U.S.) recruiting landscape is shifting toward reverse recruiting, where job seekers pay recruiters to apply.
  • This contrasts with traditional recruiting, where companies pay recruiters to find talent.
  • Experts Steven Lowell and Lacey Kaelani say seekers face challenges with hiring systems, exacerbated by AI screening tools.
  • Legal experts warn candidates to review contracts and understand services, while the model is likened to Hollywood agents who help stand out.