Statistics Canada November labor force snapshot: Unemployment drops slightly to 8.5%

According to a report from The November Labor Force Survey of Statistics Canada, employment increased by 62,100 (+0, 3%) in November, after rising 0.5% in October, while the unemployment rate was 8.5%.

This month’s report reflects the fact that a large number of provinces have started to impose targeted public health measures in response to the various world changes. In early November, restrictions on indoor dining and fitness centers were eased in Ontario, while in Manitoba, new measures affecting restaurants, recreation, and retail establishments entered in force. Most of Quebec remained on the “red” alert level in November, resulting in the prolonged closure of indoor dining rooms and many recreational and cultural facilities.

After little change in October, employment growth resumed in goods sectors (+44,000; + 1.2%) in November, with most of the gain recorded in construction. Employment fell in two sectors, information, culture and recreation, and accommodation and food services, which continued to be negatively impacted by new and existing public health measures. These declines were offset by increases in sectors less directly affected by the restrictions in place at the time of the LFS reference week, including retail trade, transportation and warehousing, and finance, insurance, real estate, and rental and leasing services.

What employers need to know

Your team has been working hard over the past few months, and chances are good that less some of them feel overworked and lose speed. Research conducted by our company has shown that more than a third of workers are now more exhausted than one year ago. Of those surveyed, 40% said that the main reason for the higher level of fatigue is the increased workload.

What can you do to support your team, especially now when you are probably facing an end-of-year shortage? Hiring seasonal workers is a strategy. Many companies turn to skilled temp professionals to help them during times of the year when workloads increase or when staff members take vacations.

Temporary professionals can help you take the pressure off your core team while moving forward with essential projects. 

What job seekers need to know

The end of the year should not put an end to your job search. You might think that employers are putting their hiring efforts on hold during the vacation period. However, many companies remain in hiring mode until the end of the year, as they use up the remaining budget and shift to core positions for initiatives planned for 2021.

That said, most employers remain selective when adding new employees. So when you meet with hiring managers, you will want to highlight the value you can bring to the organization. Emphasize how you’ve made a difference in other businesses. And be prepared to make it clear why you are interested in this role and being a part of this company.

Consider working with a recruiter as you strive to find a new job at the end of the year. A recruiting specialist who is familiar with your industry can help you cover more ground and even find opportunities that might still be hidden.

Robert Half recruiters can help you find remote and on-site jobs in your local market – or even beyond. Even better: They stand up for you during the job search process, so that an employer can see your potential even more clearly – and you can find a new position that matches your skills, experience, and career goals well.