Job market survey reveals plans for new permanent positions, skills shortage challenges, and strategies to attract and retain top talent
The Canadian job market is expected to maintain its resilience as we head into 2024, according to new research from talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half.
The company’s State of Hiring Survey revealed that 54 per cent of hiring managers have plans to create new permanent positions in the first six months of the year, with an additional 40 per cent aiming to fill vacated roles.
David King
Senior Managing Director at Robert Half, Canada and South America
 Photo by Clem Onojeghuo |
Among managers looking to expand their hiring efforts, over six in 10 (61 per cent) identified company growth as the primary factor influencing their hiring decisions for the first half of 2024. A significant number (50 per cent) cited a shortage of required skills among current employees as a driving factor. Moreover, capitalizing on top talent from other companies and addressing employee turnover were tied, with 48 per cent of hiring managers considering these factors in their hiring plans. Additionally, 77 per cent of those who had to postpone projects in 2023 indicated their intent to proceed with previously delayed initiatives.
While an increase in hiring is anticipated, finding the right talent may prove challenging, according to the research. The survey found that 89 per cent of organizations reported difficulty locating skilled professionals, and 64 per cent of managers noted that hiring for open positions now takes longer than a year ago.
Other challenges expected in 2024 include:
- Insufficient applicants with the required skills (53 per cent)
- Ensuring a quick hiring process to secure top talent (49 per cent)
- Meeting candidates’ salary expectations (48 per cent)
“The first quarter of the year typically brings newly approved projects and budgets,” said David King, Senior Managing Director at Robert Half, Canada and South America. “Combined with company growth plans and persistent skills gaps in the labour market, employers must adopt strategic approaches to attract and retain top talent, addressing staffing requirements and fulfilling business needs.”
With hiring challenges continuing in the Canadian job market, organizations are also concerned about retaining skilled professionals and maintaining their productivity. Survey results revealed that 90 per cent of managers expressed concerns about retaining top talent, while 87 per cent were worried about keeping their teams motivated and engaged.
King emphasized the importance of this concern: “While expanding teams will be a significant focus for companies in the coming year, managers must also prioritize the needs and well-being of their existing staff to enhance retention and productivity. Regular compensation and benefit audits are crucial to remaining competitive, and offering perks such as flexibility can help reduce turnover.”
| Staff
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