Despite 2025 beginning with an unemployment rate of 6.7 per cent, job seekers should be encouraged by recent Statistics Canada data showing that year-over-year job growth in 2024 was comparable to not only 2023, but the pre-COVID-19 pandemic period between 2017 and 2019.More importantly, unemployment among skilled talent is low. That may be why, according to Robert Half’s research specific to roles within finance, administrative, technology, legal, and marketing functions, 92 per cent of Canadian hiring managers across all professions foreseeing a competitive hiring environment in the year ahead.Need more information on industries hiring now across Canada? Check out this blog.
Where are we seeing growth in the job market?
View the ReportHere are some highlights of Q4 2024 job postings across specific to knowledge and office positions within finance, administrative, technology, legal, and marketing functions. These findings are based on Statistics Canada data* and our analysis of 22,000 positions from over 5,400 company and job boards posted in Canada.Top industries hiring in Q4 2024:Business and professional services: +21,500 jobsManufacturing and distribution: +5,800 jobsFinancial services: +5,500 jobsConsumer Goods: +4,800 jobsTop jobs in Q4 2024:Administrative assistant: +6,100 jobsCustomer service specialist: +6,100 jobsSoftware Engineer/Developer: +4,700 jobsReceptionist: +2,900 jobsMarketing manager: +1,800 jobsBookkeeper: +1,700 jobsAR/AP Clerk: +1,500 jobsExecutive Assistant: +1,400 jobsCustomer Service Manager: +1,300 jobsStay ahead of the competition and make informed decisions about your career path. See Robert Half’s Demand for Skilled Talent report for valuable insights into industries hiring now.
Tips for job search success in the current market
Search JobsEconomic conditions and the labour market are always evolving. But the trends and indicators outlined above suggest many industries are hiring now, and employers will be looking to hire skilled talent in the months ahead, too. To maximize your job search success, consider the following strategies:Expand your industry focus: If opportunities are limited in your current field, explore adjacent industries where your skills and experience may be transferable. Fields like technology, healthcare and financial services are actively hiring across multiple roles.Showcase your impact in job applications: Resumes and cover letters should emphasize specific contributions you made in previous roles—like cost savings, process improvements or revenue growth. These details about how you’ve added value can help you stand out.Leverage your personal and professional networks: Reaching out to former colleagues, mentors and industry connections on LinkedIn or through professional organizations can help you uncover hidden job opportunities.Sharpen your digital presence: Speaking of LinkedIn, make sure your profile is up to date and ready to catch a hiring manager’s eye. Highlight your key achievements and relevant skills, and consider sharing industry insights or engaging in discussions to help increase your visibility.Stay proactive with continuous learning: Many employers seek candidates with up-to-date skills who can hit the ground running once they’re hired. Consider investing in relevant certifications or online courses to help fortify your qualifications and improve your marketability when competing for jobs in industries hiring now.Finally, keep in mind that work flexibility might be on your side, depending on the roles and sectors you are targeting. Despite prominent return-to-office policies, hybrid and remote jobs remain widely available in many industries. That means you can cast a wider net when applying for jobs and compete for opportunities beyond your location.Methodology: Our analysis is based on 22,000 million job postings within Canada, provided by Textkernel, from over 5,400 company websites and job boards in Q4 2024.*Source: Statistics Canada, Labour Force Survey December 2024. Released January 10, 2025.Know which industries to target but unsure where to begin? Check out our list of available jobs today.
