How Confident Are You About Success in 2026?

Okay, before we go any further, let me say this: by completing the survey I’m just about the describe, you have the chance to win a $100 gift card. Are you guaranteed to win the gift card? Of course not.

But as Lloyd Christmas said in the iconic movie Dumb and Dumber (and no, that’s not a movie about your clients and candidates in 2025), “So you’re saying there’s a chance.”

Now that I’ve delivered that public service announcement, we now join our regularly scheduled program, already in progress . . .

As we look ahead to 2026, one thing is clear: the recruiting landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Shifting client expectations, changing candidate behavior, technology advancements, and economic uncertainty are all shaping how agency recruiters and search consultants approach their work.

That’s why we’re excited to announce that the 2026 Recruiter Confidence and Strategy Survey is officially live.

Why This Survey Matters

This survey isn’t just another data collection exercise. It’s an opportunity for TE Network members to share real-world insights about what’s working, what’s changing, and where challenges remain. (And yes, we just conducted our annual State of the Recruiting Industry Survey last month. That was “big picture.” This is “smaller picture.”)

Your input helps us:

• Better understand how recruiters are feeling about the year ahead
• Identify the strategic shifts firms are making in response to market conditions
• Learn where recruiters are investing time, energy, and resources
• Pinpoint areas where vulnerability or uncertainty still exist

Most importantly, your responses help ensure that the services we provide and the content we produce remain relevant, practical, and grounded in today’s recruiting realities.

Quick, Focused, and Worth Your Time

We know your time is valuable. That’s why this survey is designed to take approximately five minutes. In other words, it’s short enough to complete between calls or meetings.

As a thank-you for participating, all respondents will be entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card. (Yes . . . we’re saying there’s a chance.)

Every year, the insights gathered from our surveys help guide conversations, research, and resources that support recruiters throughout the year ahead. Whether you’re feeling confident about 2026 or cautiously optimistic, your perspective matters.

Regardless, click the link below to get this show started:

Yes, I’d like to take the survey!

Thank you for your loyalty and commitment as TE Network members (and also for completing our survey)!