Employers finding it hard to fill key jobs: Survey

Well-constructed succession plan essential

Canadian employers are having difficulty filling key roles within their organizations, according to a survey by Right Management.

Despite high unemployment and the sluggish job market, 20 per cent of the 3,000 survey respondents said they often find it difficult to fill key jobs, while an additional 50 per cent said they occasionally find it difficult.

“These findings reflect the challenge organizations face when it comes to bringing in top talent,” said Bram Lowsky, general manager at Right Management. “HR professionals know that recruiting and securing the right talent for key positions is a demanding process regardless of whether the job market is weak or strong.”

To find the right talent, organizations must have a clear picture of the competencies required for the positions they are trying to fill as well as a fast track onboarding plan, he said.

They must also have a well-constructed succession planning system to replace key roles quickly as well as a broader succession management plan to ensure firm-wide talent progression, said Lowsky.

“Those that don’t are highly exposed to risks of underperformance and further loss of talent that could have been successfully developed for competitive advantage.”

Latest stories