The Canadian economy added a record 108,700 jobs in April bringing our unemployment rate down to 8.1%. The gains were four times the number economists were expecting. Most of the gains were in the private sector and construction and building services sectors. The biggest gains were seen in Ontario, Quebec and Manitoba. Alberta continues to lag the rest of the country as it is the only province to see no job gains since July 2009. This just confirms what we at SalesForce Search have been witnessing over the past 6 weeks. Companies seem to be picking up the pace on hiring after a relatively slow first quarter.  

This has implications for employers with respect to turnover and hiring cycles. Here are a few observations based on discussions we’ve had with candidates and clients over the past 2 months:

• The market is heating up and hiring cycles need to shorten or you may miss out on good candidates.
• Top sales people are receiving multiple offers. If you find a great candidate, be prepared for the fact they have other offers and move quickly.
• Retain your top sales people. Good sales people have weathered the economic storm and are now being approached by competitors and entertaining offers. Give them a reason to stay through rewards and recognition programs or risk losing them.

The market for great sales people has changed in the past month. Be prepared to take advantage of top talent and help retain the good people you have.