Net fees across the whole UK recruitment operation fell by 6% during the last quarter.
But the firm said: “We continued, however, to post strong performances in our Construction and Property business.”
The stronger performance in construction recruitment was dragged down by tougher market conditions in the banking and finance division while public sector fees continued to plummet down 57% from their peak.
Hays took on more recruitment consultants during the quarter but staff levels are still 5% lower than this time last year.
Chief executive Alistair Cox said: “In the UK, momentum in the private sector recovery has slowed and therefore we have further reduced the cost base to improve the profitability of this business going forward.”