Recfest 2025: What Talent Leaders Are Really Thinking About

Last week, the Teamtailor crew arrived at Knebworth Park for Recfest 2025 and what a day it was!

Between the live music, scorching 32°C sunshine, and 4,000+ TA folks all in one place, it was the perfect place to talk about the future of hiring and how we’re all navigating it together.

You couldn’t miss our vibrant pink booth, with branded fans that disappeared by lunch, a cyclone game, and one lucky winner walking away with a 3-night stay at an Unplugged cabin!

Here are a few takeaways that stuck with us;

Great tools make hiring easier until they do not

A lot of people we spoke to told us they are not completely satisfied with the tools they’re using… but they’re also not in a position to change them.

Even when something is slowing the team down, it often feels easier to stick with what you’ve got than face the headache of switching. . It’s a reminder that simplicity really matters when it comes to recruitment tech. The best tools go beyond checking boxes, they simplify and enhance everyday life.

Upskilling is top of mind

With new tools, features and AI popping up constantly, there’s a shared feeling of “Are we even using what we’ve got to its full potential?”

TA leaders told us they’re keen to do more with what they already have  but many don’t feel equipped to upskill or train their teams on fast-changing platforms. It’s not about more tech, it's about making it easier to use what’s already there.

People are looking for more meaning in their work

Whether it was TA leaders hiring or candidates on the move, one thing was clear: people are looking for meaning.

There’s a growing hesitation to take a new role that doesn’t feel aligned especially if it seems like a short-term fix. Culture, mission, and values are playing a huge part in decision-making on both sides of the table.

Our session: “AI Is Here. Is Your Hiring Strategy?”

We were thrilled to be joined by Ray Baptise, Head of TA at elder.org, for a fireside chat about the real impact of AI on hiring.

Ray shared how his team is using automation (including Teamtailor’s Co-pilot) to improve candidate experience, streamline processes, and create more space for human connection.

We also explored where AI is genuinely adding value, the rise of “super recruiters,” and a future where candidate-side AI agents may reshape how people showcase their potential, no CVs needed.

In summary

Recfest 2025 reminded us that recruitment isn’t just about tech, trends, or targets, it’s about people.

Whether you stopped by for a demo, joined our session, or just came for the sunshine, thank you!

The big takeaway?
AI can help us hire smarter but the human touch still matters more than ever.

Until next time, happy recruiting!