Survey finds one-third of Canadian managers anticipate longer hiring timelines compared to first half of 2024
A recent survey conducted by Robert Half reveals that a significant portion of Canadian companies are gearing up for new hires in the latter half of 2024.
More than half (52%) of employers plan to create new permanent positions, while 41% intend to fill vacated roles.
Moreover, 58% of companies expect to increase their reliance on contract and project-based professionals as they approach the end of the year.
"Hiring challenges and subsequent lengthy hiring cycles can have a big impact on projects and business priorities", said Koula Vasilopoulos, Senior Managing Director of Robert Half, Canada.
"Employers have crucial roles that need filling, and need to ensure they have strategic hiring strategies in place to attract talent and keep projects on track."
Key drivers and challenges in hiring
The report revealed several factors are influencing these hiring decisions. Notably, 50% of companies cite growth as a primary motivator, followed by employee turnover (41%), project-based work (39%), and a lack of requisite skills among current staff (38%).
Source: Robert Half
Despite these hiring intentions, organizations face significant challenges, with 90% reporting difficulty in finding skilled professionals.
"Flexibility continues to be a major priority for professionals, and offering some autonomy over when and where team members work can give companies an edge in securing top talent," Vasilopoulos said.
As a result, 32% of managers anticipate longer hiring timelines compared to the first half of 2024, while 45% expect the process to take about the same time. Other challenges include:
- finding candidates with the right skill sets (51%)
- aligning new hires with company culture (49%)
- hiring quickly enough to secure top talent (46%)
- meeting salary expectations (46%).
Managers adapting hiring strategies
In response, managers are adapting their hiring strategies, the report revealed.
For example, over half (59%) are willing to overlook specific years of experience if candidates possess the necessary skills. Additionally, 39% offer hybrid work options, and 37% provide flexible schedules to attract the best talent.
The Robert Half survey was carried out by an independent research firm during the first two weeks of June 2024, collecting data from 1,800 hiring managers in human resources, finance and accounting, technology, marketing, creative, legal, administrative and customer support. It focused on Canadian companies with 20 or more employees.
