A Quiet Summer season Earlier than a Busy Fall?

August 2026 Unemployment Stats: A Quiet Summer season Earlier than a Busy Fall?

August is historically a quieter month for hiring, and this 12 months was no exception. With summer season holidays in full swing, decision-makers away from the workplace, and plenty of companies working at a unique tempo, hiring exercise can naturally decelerate. Nonetheless, whereas direct hires can decelerate over the summer season, About Staffing noticed features with momentary roles as employers required extra protection to fill within the gaps.

In August, Canada’s unemployment charge stayed the identical at 6.4%. Employment decreased by 42,000 Jobs, which was a shock to many economists who predicated a achieve of 15,000 Jobs.

Whereas the numbers give us a fast snapshot of what occurred in August, we’re additionally wanting forward at what usually comes subsequent.

September Is Traditionally a Large Month for Hiring

September has historically been one of many busiest occasions of 12 months, when IT involves motion in hiring.

By the top of August, persons are coming back from summer season holidays, management groups are again on the desk, and companies are refocusing on the commitments they wish to accomplish earlier than year-end. Hiring choices that will have been placed on maintain throughout July and August begin transferring once more.

There’s additionally a pure shift within the workforce. Summer season workers and college students head again to highschool, which may create gaps that must be crammed. Companies start taking a look at their fall workload, upcoming initiatives, and begin filling within the gaps of what must be carried out.

What We’re Seeing at About Staffing

“We’re optimistic about what the autumn will convey. Even in these first few days of September, we’re already feeling a shift in power throughout the job market. September isn’t only a busy time for employers. IT’s additionally a well-liked time for professionals to make a profession transfer, discover new alternatives, and take that subsequent step.”

We’ve got seen development in momentary roles this summer season, with employers trying to rent for brief time period initiatives. For job seekers, these roles could be a good way to get your foot within the door, construct connections, and achieve beneficial expertise. In lots of circumstances, momentary positions may also result in everlasting alternatives, so we encourage job seekers to maintain an open thoughts when contemplating momentary work.”

— Cristina Schultz, Recruitment Supervisor, About Staffing

We are likely to see a mixture of candidates coming into the market, together with folks returning to the workforce after time away, professionals who used the summer season to consider their subsequent transfer, current graduates starting their careers, and workers who’re merely prepared for change.

What We Anticipate Heading Into September

After a slower interval over the summer season, we’re anticipating hiring exercise to construct by the autumn.  That doesn’t essentially imply each trade or employer will all of a sudden begin hiring directly.

For employers, now is an effective time to take a look at the place there could also be gaps in your crew and whether or not you’ll want extra help this fall. Begin deciding what must occur, what you want to occur, and how much position is required to help your present crew.

For job seekers, IT’s a very good time to get ready. Replace your resume, reconnect together with your community, take into consideration the forms of alternatives you’re thinking about, and ensure you’re prepared when the correct position comes alongside.

August might have been quieter, however September is right here and usually, meaning hiring is about to get busy.