As we enter 2025, the talent landscape continues to evolve in fascinating ways. Based on our expertise and insights, here are five trends we’re observing for the year ahead.
We believe that the persistent economic and political uncertainty since 2024 ensures that sales and finance roles remain a top priority. Companies are focusing on revenue growth strategies while strengthening financial stability. A recent BDC study highlighted that Canadian SMEs are prioritizing investments in business development and financial resilience to navigate these turbulent times. As a result, leaders in sales and finance will continue to be highly sought after—if you work in these fields, expect to have plenty of options.
Toronto’s reign as Canada’s economic capital remains unchallenged, but we’ve noticed a surprising trend: more and more professionals are curious about a potential move to Montreal. Why the exodus? We’ve never seen such openness to mobility between these two cities. Montreal’s relatively affordable housing, lower daycare costs, and higher quality of life (yes, even with the potholes) are attracting talent. Salaries in Montreal have also nearly caught up with Toronto’s in recent years, and despite higher taxes, the overall cost of living remains more appealing in Quebec. Add to this Toronto’s notorious traffic and a tighter job market due to record immigration, and “La Belle Province” is starting to look like a very attractive option.
In 2025, the job market in Quebec and Canada is rapidly evolving, marking a reversal in the balance of power between employers and employees. For years, candidates dominated the market, often choosing between multiple offers and negotiating interviews and conditions to their advantage. However, the rise of automation, economic slowdown, and demographic changes are reshaping the landscape. Employers are becoming more selective, demanding specialized skills and greater adaptability. This shift compels companies to stand out not only with their employer brand but also with flexible, innovative approaches to attracting top talent. The war for talent is being redefined: candidates will need to adjust their strategies to stay competitive, while employers must rethink their attractiveness to remain in the game.
Mass retirements of baby boomers (with a 9.7% increase in retirements, according to Statistics Canada) and immigration targets normalizing after record highs are exacerbating talent shortages. Meanwhile, political uncertainty—fueled by upcoming elections in Canada and international developments—may impact the economy through protectionist policies or tariffs, affecting talent flows and certain industries. Employers, prepare to navigate an environment marked by heightened competition for skilled workers and the need for agility in the face of economic disruptions.
Artificial intelligence continues to redefine recruitment norms, with significant impacts on candidates, recruiters, and employers. What was once a competitive advantage is now becoming an essential for all organizations.
In 2025, AI tools go beyond simplifying repetitive administrative tasks: they also help identify unconscious biases, analyze massive volumes of data for informed decisions, and enhance the candidate experience through personalized processes.
However, real risks are emerging, such as algorithmic biases that may exclude atypical profiles or falsification enabled by AI tools during remote interviews. To minimize these risks, it is essential to regularly audit algorithms to detect and correct potential biases and to integrate practical exercises or in-person scenarios into the recruitment process to avoid cheating. These measures ensure that AI remains a tool for fair selection and helps strengthen—rather than weaken—the human relationships at the heart of recruitment practices.
At Fauve, we closely monitor these trends while helping our clients adapt to this evolving landscape. Whether you’re looking to seize opportunities or tackle challenges, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Here’s to a dynamic and (hopefully) prosperous 2025!