Canadian Employers Talk Talent Strategy in 2026

Our annual Hays Salary & Hiring Trends Guide Events just took place throughout Canada, bringing together Canadian business leaders and professionals to discuss the challenges shaping today’s workplace and what lies ahead. This blog offers a recap of the insights shared during the 2026 Hays Canada Salary & Hiring Trends Guide Event in Vancouver, exploring how AI, economic shifts, and evolving workforce expectations are set to reshape hiring strategies in 2026.

The setting may have been stunning, but the real value came from the conversations. Speakers and panelists delivered actionable insights and bold strategies to shape the future of hiring. Here’s a look at the key themes and takeaways from the event:

• Economic uncertainty is influencing hiring decisions – With unemployment at 7.1% and trade policies adding pressure, 24% of organizations have delayed or reduced hiring, redirecting efforts toward more cautious workforce planning.
• AI is not replacing roles – Only 2% of organizations report that AI is fully replacing roles.
• Upskilling is critical to close skills gaps – 42.6% of employers are actively investing in skills development.
• Pay transparency matters – 92% of employees want transparency, but only 32% of organizations share salary bands.

Building on insights from the Hays Canada 2026 Salary & Hiring Trends Guide and market data, our event allowed leaders and professionals to discuss real challenges and explore practical solutions organizations are implementing to navigate AI adoption and workforce planning ahead of 2026.

Economic pressures are reshaping hiring

The economy is shifting due to disruptors like tariffs, further compounding the challenges posed by a 7.1% unemployment rate. As a result, 24% of organizations have delayed or reduced hiring, focusing on more cautious workforce planning.

AI is not replacing roles

Our 2026 Salary & Hiring Trends Guide survey data revealed that 53% of organizations are using AI to support their teams, while only 2% reported that AI was entirely replacing jobs. Businesses are adopting AI as a strategy to boost productivity while keeping a human touch at the core.

Upskilling to close skills gaps

While 58% of employees feel confident in their skills, 42.6% of organizations are investing in upskilling to close gaps. As Deloitte warns, when left unresolved, skills gaps don’t just disrupt operations; they erode competitiveness and limit long‑term organizational growth.

Pay transparency drives retention

We asked in our survey if professionals are more likely to apply for a job when the salary is listed in the job posting, and our data revealed that 92% said yes. Yet only 32% of organizations share salary bands. This is a gap worth addressing as organizations aim to attract and retain talent.

Economic shifts, employee attraction /retention needs, and AI adoption are reshaping the workplace, and organizations must rethink their hiring strategies to adapt to the rapidly changing landscape.

If you couldn’t attend our event, click here to download our 2026 Salary & Hiring Trends Guide to gain a deeper understanding of the trends and takeaways shared during the event.

Partner with Hays - backed by market intelligence and expertise in talent acquisition and workforce strategy - to craft tailored solutions that fit your business needs and help you thrive in today’s evolving world of work.