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Mario Comtois
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The Job Market in 2025: Labour Shortage or Skills Mismatch?
Mario Comtois
Hits: 22
The job market at the beginning of 2025 is generating much debate. PME Guru recently gathered several experts to discuss this reality, and the challenges related to skilled labour.
Right from the start of the podcast, a key question is raised: Is there a real shortage of workers or simply a mismatch between supply and demand? Philippe Bussières, Director of Information at PME Guru, offers a more nuanced view of the alarmist narrative by explaining that workers do exist—but they don’t always meet employers’ expectations. Employers are often looking for candidates with either overly broad or highly specialized skill sets, making recruitment more complex.
Geneviève Éthier, Director of Communications at Innoviste, highlights the shortage of skilled labour, particularly in sectors where vocational training is undervalued. Louis Martin Jannard, cofounder of his namesake company, emphasizes the importance of recognizing and integrating young graduates from DEP programs, who are often overlooked due to a lack of experience.
Another major issue is inter-industry competition. Skilled professionals, especially in fields like electrical work or mechanics, are drawn to industries such as construction or mining, which offer more attractive working conditions. In response to this reality, the experts agree on the need to improve salaries and working conditions to retain talent.
Finally, innovative solutions are emerging, such as the use of artificial intelligence to optimize recruitment or the implementation of a counteroffer system that allows candidates to negotiate their terms.
In short, while the workforce does indeed exist, the real challenge lies in aligning employers’ expectations with the available skills.
To listen to the full podcast:
Mario Comtois
