Nearly six in 10 Canadian employers expect to increase permanent hiring before the end of 2026 as organizations pursue business priorities while continuing to grapple with shortages of specialized talent, according to new research released by Robert Half Canada.
The talent solutions and business consulting firm said 58 per cent of more than 1,360 hiring managers surveyed across Canada plan to increase permanent hiring during the second half of the year, up from 55 per cent at the beginning of 2026. The survey also found that 45 per cent expect to hire contract professionals to bring in specialized expertise and support key initiatives.
The findings point to continued demand for workers with specialized skills even as employers report increasing difficulty filling critical roles. More than half of respondents said recruiting qualified professionals has become more difficult than it was previously, while many organizations reported project delays and cancellations linked to talent shortages.
"Many organizations are ready to advance important business priorities, but successful execution relies on having the right skills in place," said Koula Vasilopoulos, senior managing director, Robert Half, Canada. "Employers are broadening their talent strategies, leveraging both permanent and contract professionals to access critical skills and keep strategic projects moving forward."
Legal professionals were identified as being in the highest demand, with 74 per cent of hiring managers planning to recruit in that field. Marketing and creative roles followed at 66 per cent, ahead of human resources at 64 per cent, finance and accounting at 58 per cent, technology at 48 per cent, and administrative and customer support positions at 41 per cent.
Despite those hiring plans, employers said they continue to encounter significant challenges in securing the skills they need.
According to the survey, 53 per cent of hiring managers said finding qualified talent is more difficult than before.
The shortage of skilled professionals is also affecting business operations. Fifty-six per cent of respondents said they had experienced significant project delays over the past year, while 48 per cent reported cancelling projects because they lacked the necessary skills to complete the work.
Hiring managers identified technical or specialized skills as the hardest capability to find, cited by 48 per cent of respondents. Industry-specific knowledge or experience followed at 47 per cent, while 41 per cent pointed to leadership abilities as the most difficult attribute to secure.
The survey also found that 53 per cent of hiring managers consider specialized skills to be the most important quality when evaluating candidates.
To address ongoing shortages, employers said they are adjusting their hiring strategies. Thirty-seven per cent reported prioritizing candidates with high potential and investing in their development when fully qualified applicants are unavailable. Meanwhile, 56 per cent said they turn to staffing firms to gain access to specialized skills.
"Finding professionals with specialized, in-demand skills remains a challenge for many organizations, and employers are increasingly seeking flexible ways to address talent gaps", Vasilopoulos added. "A staffing partner can provide access to skilled professionals who can contribute quickly, maintain business momentum and support long-term future growth."
Robert Half said the research was conducted by an independent research firm in April 2026 and is based on responses from more than 1,360 hiring managers across Canada.