Most Canadian companies believe they can protect jobs during a potential recession, but their employees are far less convinced, according to a new survey that reveals a significant confidence gap in the workplace.
The Express Employment Professionals–Harris Poll survey found that while 80 per cent of Canadian companies are confident in their ability to provide long-term job security, only 66 per cent of job seekers share that confidence, according to the staffing company.
Half of both Canadian companies and job seekers expect a recession within the next 12 months, the survey found. However, 51 per cent of employed job seekers say they are more concerned about keeping their job than last year, compared to 42 per cent of companies that believe their employees have increased job security concerns.
Communication gaps create uncertainty
The disconnect extends to workplace communication, with companies split on how much information to share with employees about organizational stability, according to the survey.
While 85 per cent of job seekers say they would feel more secure working for a company that clearly communicates its future, only 20 per cent report their company uses transparent communication, the survey found. Instead, 56 per cent say their company uses “selective sharing” where leadership shares information intermittently, and 23 per cent report an “at arm’s length” approach with rare communication.
Companies report different practices, with 44 per cent using selective sharing and 43 per cent operating with an “all hands on deck approach” where leadership consistently shares information with employees, according to the survey.
Companies implement job protection measures
Most hiring managers report their companies are taking action to support job security, with 79 per cent saying they use specific policies or practices, according to the survey.
The most common measures include reducing expenses in other areas to avoid layoffs (35 per cent), providing upskilling opportunities (30 per cent), utilizing flexible staffing models (22 per cent), covering employee education costs (21 per cent), and creating emergency funds (19 per cent), the survey found.
These practices align with what job seekers want most for long-term job security: training for additional roles (40 per cent), clearer communication from senior leadership (36 per cent), and access to cross-training programs (33 per cent), according to the survey.
External factors drive job security concerns
Both hiring managers and job seekers point to government policy changes as major factors affecting job security, with 68 per cent of hiring managers and 75 per cent of job seekers saying changes to tariffs, taxes and regulations have a bigger long-term impact than internal company decisions, the survey found.
Three-quarters of job seekers are concerned about finding a job during a potential recession, according to the survey.
“In a labour market shaped by uncertainty, job security is no longer just about stability. It’s about adaptability,” said Bob Funk Jr., CEO of Express Employment International. “Organizations that invest in transparent communication and continuous skill development aren’t just retaining talent, they’re building a workforce equipped to navigate change and drive long-term growth.”
The survey included 500 Canadian hiring decision-makers and 503 adults, conducted online in June by The Harris Poll, according to Express Employment Professionals.
