British recruiter Robert Walters has affirmed its annual profit expectations following a 17% decline in quarterly net fees. The challenging market is characterized by candidate hesitancy to change roles and extended hiring processes by companies amid economic uncertainties. Contract and interim recruitment outperformed permanent recruitment as organizations opt for shorter-term solutions to meet hiring needs, according to CEO Toby Fowlston. The shift towards temporary and contract hiring is a strategic response to the current macroeconomic climate. Robert Walters, specializing in legal, accountancy, and technology sectors, reported net fees of £93.4 million ($114.3 million) for the quarter ending Sept. 30, down from £112 million last year.