In 2013, Canada ranked ninth on a global workplace survey that measured skill shortages across the world. Although Japan, Germany, the US, and other front-running countries reported worse conditions, it seems Canadian employers still struggle to fill high-end positions in many industries, including construction, engineering, and technology. Outlined in the report, one cause of this problem is a lack of relevant skills in the workplace, especially in new graduates.
The November 2013 IT Employer survey, conducted by Hays Canada, revealed a similar talent shortage moving forward. In fact, in 2014, up to 64% of IT companies in Canada may suffer from “moderate to significant” shortages. According to company respondents, this is due to a lack of training and professional development as well as a drop in market interest. Originally, in 2013, 16% of businesses believed they would downsize, but the final number came to 31% — this illustrates the severity of the situation. On the flip side, however, businesses want to see more results this year and 39.5% expect to increase staff size in future months.
An issue explored in previous articles — the loss of a generation to retirement — also came up on the survey. For 2014, 46% of businesses look to implement a succession plan to smoothen the transition ahead. At the same time, businesses will need to think about growing demands for benefits, bonuses, and pensions. As well, the ability to work remotely has become a big push among young professionals, so this is something businesses will have to engage.
FlexStaf-IT 