As a Canadian employer, you are faced with many challenges when it comes to attracting top talent. But it’s not all doom and gloom. Every challenge is also an opportunity to shape a better workplace for the future. Let’s take a look at some of the top hiring trends you should keep an eye on this year.
Increase in Temporary and Contract Employees
A study by CareerBuilder found that 61 per cent of companies plan to hire contract or temporary workers over the next 12 months. Of these employers, 45 per cent plan to transition some temporary employees into full-time, permanent members of their staff. Proving that temporary recruitment is becoming a popular way to “try before you buy” when it comes to new hires.
Flexible Work in Demand
One of the defining features of the modern workforce is the growing demand for flexible work options. According to a study by Harris / Decima, 89 per cent of employees feel that a flexible work program makes a company more attractive, and flexible work was considered the second most important factor, after money, when Canadians are looking for a new job.
Skills Gap Widens
It’s no secret that Canada, and most of the developed world, is struggling with a skills gap. A CIBC World Markets report found a disparity between what university students are choosing to study and the actual fields of employment that are in demand. This gap is only expected to widen with government tightening the rules surrounding temporary foreign workers.
Investment in Training
With our ageing population comes more and more Baby Boomers entering retirement age. This year will see a continued investment in training, mentorship and succession planning as Boomers groom Generation X and Generation Y employees to take their place. The pressure to pass on the knowledge is even more pressing considering the already-prominent skills gap.
Employer Brand Matters
It’s not just about the dollar bills. Your reputation as a good employer and the benefits you offer is just as important to employees. Attitudes towards wellness, autonomy and overall corporate culture play a big part in a job seeker’s requirements. Lululemon and Hootsuite are great examples of Canadian companies that have very distinct employer brands which they use to lure top talent.
Mobile Job Search
There are more mobile devices in the world than people. So it’s not surprising that 70 percent of job seekers are now using their mobile devices to find jobs. If your website, and in particular your career page, isn’t mobile friendly it might be time for an upgrade.
What hiring trends are you seeing in your business? Arrange to speak with one of our Recruitment Consultants about your 2014 hiring plans. We’ll devise a strategy that will help you win top talent and move your business forward. Email connect@theheadhunters.ca or call your local Headhunters branch.
