This week on Beacon Bits, Serge and Yves discuss the latest Canadian job market trends, the implications of potential U.S. tariffs on Canadian businesses, and the priorities for CEOs heading into 2025. They explore the impact of public sector job growth, the challenges posed by tariffs, and the evolving landscape of work influenced by AI and automation. The discussion highlights the need for businesses to adapt and prepare for economic uncertainties while focusing on workforce development and innovation.

takeaways

• The unemployment rate in Canada has slightly decreased to 6.7%.
• 91000 jobs were added in December, surpassing expectations.
• Public sector job growth has been significant over the past four years.
• U.S. tariffs could potentially cost Canada hundreds of thousands of jobs.
• The Canadian economy is heavily reliant on oil and gas exports.
• Businesses need to develop contingency plans for potential economic downturns.
• Attracting and retaining talent is a top priority for CEOs.
• AI and automation are reshaping job roles and productivity.
• There is a disconnect between CEO priorities and HR focus areas.
• Companies are increasingly willing to make tough decisions for profitability.
  
  

Sound Bites

• "Unemployment rate has dropped slightly to 6.7%."
• "91000 jobs added, far exceeding the forecast."
• "Public sector has been growing substantially."
• "Tariffs terrify me as a business owner."