Motivating Mondays

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re going to talk about the new 'Doomjobbing' trend, a variation of 'doomscrolling' on social media, a habit which can become a way of engaging with a problem that feels outside our control. Getting hired, by its very nature, feels outside of our control and so there is a natural tendency to try to apply for as many jobs as possible.
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable emp...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re going to share details about a national initiative to support the employment of 10,000 individuals with disabilities between now and October. And while this might be an initiative around ‘disability employment’ when you really look at it, these efforts support the employment of everyone who’s under-represented in our labour market. 
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable employment outcomes for their clients and students.

If you would...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we discussed the changing world of job development. There are 17 fundamentals in effective job development. This provides a structure whereby job developers are able to develop strong employer connections, best practices in career development and lasting employment outcomes.
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable employment outcomes for their clients and students.

If you would like to join us LIVE, we meet every Monday morning online with j...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re going to talk about the four objectives any job developer should pursue when cold-calling an employer. When you don’t have an existing relationship with an employer, you should be seeking an opportunity to have a more meaningful conversation, gathering information, presenting your services or working to build awareness. We’ll breakdown the most effective ways of accomplishing these goals.
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable employm...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re looking at the changing nature of entry-level employment. More than 4 in 5 Canadian hiring decision-makers (81%) agree entry-level jobs require candidates to possess more skills than they have in the past. More than 4 in 5 Canadian job seekers (82%) agree that entry-level jobs require candidates to possess more skills (i.e., hard and/or soft skills) than they have in the past. 
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable employment outcomes for...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re looking at the skills utilization of recent immigrants in sectors such as hospitality, construction and healthcare. The challenges vary based on the sector. While many immigrants seek out survival jobs in hospitality and construction, barriers remain that leave immigrants over-qualified or over-educated in a variety of healthcare occupations.
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable employment outcomes for their clients and students.

If you would lik...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re looking at the preference of job seekers to apply for as many jobs as possible online, rather than taking the time and effort to curate a comprehensive job search involving networking, information interviews and in-person applications. Clients and students claim they've applied for 100 jobs without hearing back. Is the problem the employers who don’t follow-up or a job search strategy focused on quantity of applications and not the quality of job applications?
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals devel...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re looking at a huge transfer of business leadership coming soon. The average age of Canadian small business owners is approximately 53 to 54 years old, with a significant portion of entrepreneurs approaching retirement age. Data indicates that around 60 per cent of small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) owners in Canada are aged 50 or older. Marketing a client to a 35 year-old business owner and a 60 year-old business owner is a different arrangement and we should be tailoring our approach as such.
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and oth...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re looking at the technique of 'Discovery' where we resist the urge to pitch clients and instead ask probative questions to better understand what an employer is looking for. A recent study shows that customers speak during 57% of the conversation in successful discovery sales calls. Their research also has found top-performing reps ask 39% more questions during the discovery call.
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable employment outcomes for...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re going to talk about how hard-skills are the best path to employment. Here's a breakdown for skills that would have the most positive impact in the workplace:
1. Technical, practical or job specific, 30.7% 
2. Customer service, 10.2%
3. Critical thinking, 9.6%
4. Problem solving, 9.6%
5. Team working, 6.0%
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable employment outcomes for their clients and students.

If you would like to join us L...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re going to talk about steps Employment and Social Development Canada is taking to make it more challenging for employers to hire temporary foreign workers. As of April 1, 2026, employers applying for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) under the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program must advertise positions for a minimum of eight consecutive weeks — double the previous four-week requirement. Forcing employers to look closer at domestic candidates, specifically youth, will create opportunities for job developers.
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re going to talk about how labour market information can be valuable to job developers and other employer engagement professionals. LMI is very much an untapped resource of business and economic activity that leads to ‘emerging job opportunities’. We’ll talk about the importance of LMI and how critical it is to apply for jobs before the employer has even thought to place the advertisement.
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we  explore how networking is becoming more transactional. It seems as though both employers and job seekers have a low opinion of how networking is evolving. According to a recent survey by Harris Poll, 70 per cent of Canadian hiring managers and 76 per cent of job seekers say networking today feels more like a business transaction than a genuine personal connection. We discuss this and how job seekers can convert networking opportunities from being transactional and make them more relational.
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and ot...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re  exploring marketing strategies that could make a difference in pitching clients with criminal records to employers. Employees with criminal records have a 13 per cent lower turnover rate than those without one, according to a study from Northwestern University. They’re also no more likely to be fired for misconduct than any other employee. According to the Society for Human Resource Management, 67 per cent of HR professionals and 82 per cent of managers feel that the “quality of fair chance talent is about the same or higher than that of workers without records.”
 
#Motiv...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re taking a deep dive into how local employers are being impacted by global trade. Trade uncertainty is causing inflation, higher input costs, and reduced profits. In the release of last week's Labour Force Survey, while economists were expecting the country to create 10,000 new jobs, instead we lost 84,000 jobs. This was one of the worst single month job losses in decades if we don't count the pandemic.
 
#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network nee...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re taking a different look at International Women’s Day. While most people take the time to celebrate women in our society, is this not overlooking there serious inequity women face in Canada’s labour market. When in Canada earned 88 cents for every dollar earned by men in 2025, leaving a 12 per cent wage gap — a slight improvement from 82 cents nearly three decades ago.
 
When average annual earnings are considered — capturing bonuses, commissions and differences in hours worked — the gap widens sharply: Canadian women earned 72 cents on the dollar in 2023, a 28-per-cent gap, accordin...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re taking deep dive into mentorship; specifically its success rate, challenges, opportunities, and employer attitudes. In 2023, a survey by Harris Poll found 76% of hiring managers believe internal mentorship programs are essential in reducing brain drain. In fact, even those who do not have mentorship programs acknowledge such practices allow employers to upskill and reskill staff (54%), as well as attract prospective employees (31%).

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable em...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re examining the challenge of getting past low wage employment. Women, single parents, those with disabilities and those with limited education are much more challenged by low-income. People in female lone-parent families (23%), people without a high school diploma (21%), and people who reported they always had limitations in their daily activities (18%) were more at risk of low-income persistence, compared to the overall population.

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving su...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re taking a closer look at perceptions of 'ghost jobs', how common are they and what can people do about them. A recent survey found that 70% of job seekers say being ghosted by an employer – receiving no response after applying or interviewing – impacts their mental health and motivation to continue searching, with 33% describing the impact as significant or severe.

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable employment outcomes for th...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re taking a closer look at the growing number of 'contract roles' employers are offering to job seekers rather than traditional employment. The gig economy is not all it's cracked up to be. If someone has been claiming to be an independent contractor and the Canada Revenue Agency determines they are an employee rather than an independent contractor, they risk losing business expense deductions, being denied employment insurance (EI) benefits if the contract ends, and face potential retroactive tax penalties. We'll look at how to navigate these challenges for both employers and job se...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re taking a closer look at the challenges of the current job market and what job seekers can do to overcome them. Finding full-time work remains the primary objective for job seekers, with 78% willing to accept full-time positions, while 38% are willing to accept part-time work. Almost one-third (28%) are willing to accept contract or freelance positions, 22% temporary or seasonal positions and 19% entry-level positions. And while job seekers will modify their expectations during difficult times, they should never let fear and doubt diminish what they are capable of accomplishing.

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly Yo...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re taking a closer look at disclosing disability. New research from the Conference Board of Canada provides valuable employer and employee insights that can assist us in not only better preparing our clients or students but also support employers in creating a more inclusive workplace. Employees with disabilities typically disclose only when necessary—such as to request accommodation (53.6 per cent), to explain performance issues (50.3 per cent), or to account for absences (42.7 per cent).

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re talking about the massive changes that have come and are coming to employment standards across the country. Each province and territory is angling to be the most attractive place to live whether for young people, immigrants or those from other parts of Canada and they are introducing worker-friendly standards to encourage this. According to the Canadian Occupational Projection System, less than 50% of our future workforce growth is going to come from young people entering the workforce for the first time. Barely 25-35 per cent of our workforce needs will come from immigrants an...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re talking about generative AI and job development. Is this a threat to your job and if it is, what can you do about it? Humanity is critical to job development but the most successful professionals will be those who embrace both humanity and the new tools AI is providing.

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable employment outcomes for their clients and students.

If you wo...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re talking about the importance of finding time to take a breath, refocus and re-energize going into a time of uncertainty. According to a recent Ipsos poll, 71% of respondents across 30 countries, think things will look up next year but people are split on whether the worldwide economy will be stronger (49%) or not (51%). 

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable employment outcomes for their clients and students.

If...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re talking about a strategy for engaging employers that reinforces your expertise and builds your credibility. We're encouraging you to organize an employer-focused event this winter called a 'Recruitment and Retention Strategy Day', providing it sometime between now and mid-March. As people get back to work in January, we're entering a period of a few months, where work is going to take place in low-gear. It's before spring-break, summer holidays and seasonal hiring. Winter is the perfect time to garner an employers' interest and showcase what you can do.

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In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re looking at new evidence which suggests job seekers will complete bypass any jobs which fail to post a salary. Employers are losing many candidates simply for failing to disclose wages. And yet, the employers who value this sort of open and honest communication; they can be our best partners in job development.

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable employment outcomes for their clients and students.

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re talking about the self-defeating challenges of directing your clients to job postings and a new strategy that doesn’t focus on job postings at all. Ideally, candidates should be applying for jobs that haven't yet been posted. We want our clients to be the only person the employer is considering. We want to eliminate competition and allow our clients to sell themselves on four different criteria: personal fit, transferable skills, applicable experience and long-term potential. We'll discuss where to find those jobs.

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we take a closer look at the benefits of pursuing seasonal employment for those wanting long-term jobs. According to recruitment firm Cadient, "the percentage of seasonal holiday employees retained as permanent staff varies widely by company and industry, but some employers convert as many as 35-40% to permanent positions. The overall retention rate in the retail industry, which heavily relies on seasonal staff, is often high due to the nature of the work."

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we discuss take a closer look at Budget 2025; specifically the impacts to employers, job seekers and career development organizations. Did you know the federal government plans to use the Labour Market Development Agreements (the funding source which pays for most provinces' employment programs) to provide an additional $570 million over three years to help workers affected by tariffs and global market shifts access training and employment supports? They also plan to spend $97 million over five years, starting in 2026, to establish the Foreign Credential Recognition Action Fund.

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we discuss the feelings of discrimination many disabled job seekers are experiencing and the supports we can provide to address this with both employers and job seekers. Between 2017 and 2022, the percentage of persons aged 25 to 64 with disabilities who believed they had been refused an interview in the past five years because of their disability edged down from eight to seven per cent, and the percentage reporting a job refusal decreased slightly from 12 to 10 per cent. While it appears to be getting better, there's a lot more complexity to this. 

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In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, I had an opportunity to interview Sharon Ferriss, Senior Director, Marketing and Communications, with CERIC. We discussed plans for #Cannexus26 and the benefits of attending the conference (virtually or in-person) for job developers and other employer engagement professionals.

If should be noted that all members of the Canadian Job Development Network (like you) receive a 20% Discount on their attendance. Just select CJDN Member when you complete your registration.

Everyone who completes the registration by this Friday November 7th will also benefit from the early-bird registration discount.

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In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re partially looking at some of the challenges youth face in the job market, but our main thought is that this is the generation which will inherit the entire job market – and our we effectively preparing for this eventual outcome. Gen Z respondents are more likely (41%) to "always" consider their long-term career goals when making job change decisions, compared to other generations.

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sust...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we’re looking at new research suggesting employers are increasingly connecting wages and wage increases to skills. According to the brand new 2026 Canada Salary Guide, 83% of employers agree with the view that professionals with specialized skills are paid more than peers without them in the same role. True, employers seem very reluctant to hire un-proven candidates, but is there an opportunity here to shift the conversation to one where we can market people based on their skills and have it resonate with employers?

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Ca...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we are talking about calls to end the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and whether this can form a job development strategy we can utilize for marketing our clients and students to these employers. Can Canada and sectors like agriculture succeed without these workers. You might be surprised to learn that while temporary students and workers make up more than 7% of Canada's population, they make up barely 3% of food service workers.

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we are talking a new trend called 
‘Open Hiring’ – where employers hire people: First Come / First Hire; no resume; no formal interview; no reference checks. While your local employers would likely be very concerned about this approach, retail giant ‘The Body Shop’ has been doing it since 2021 with great results.

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer engagement professionals develop the tools, resources, expertise and network needed to excel in achieving sustainable employment outcomes for their clients and students.

If you would like...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we discuss our plans for 'Leaders in Job Development'; gathering a group of leading career development organizations which champion the goals of job development and inclusive hiring. We're going to promote the benefits of job development supports directly to Canadian media outlets, influences, bloggers, podcasters, employers and employer groups. We're starting with an initial cohort of 4,000 media outlets. As we expand our membership of Leaders in Job Development, we will be growing and tailoring this to local media outlets and influencers in the communities our Leading organizations are situated in. Maybe your organization wants...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we examine new research from BuildForce Canada suggesting the construction sector isn't necessarily downsizing, it's instead 'normalizing'. With an average construction unemployment rate of 5.6%, unemployment in the sector is still remarkably low compared to historical norms. The construction labour force, the total number of people either working or actively seeking work, grew last year, rising from 1.69 million to 1.702 million. This 0.7% increase suggests that recruitment efforts are succeeding in attracting new talent, a critical development for an industry facing long-term demographic pressures from an aging workforce.

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we talk about how we can coach individuals to achieve their very best in their own job search efforts. A focused, well-prepared job seeker can do far more to impress an employer with the quality of our services than all the marketing in the world. While we titled this topic: ‘Shooting for 100% in job search’, one hundred percent is not reasonable but it is aspirational. Work with your clients to help them shoot for 100% and not ‘just enough’.

#MotivingMondays, is a weekly YouTube series dedicated to help Canadian job developers and other employer...

In this episode of #MotivatingMondays, we talk about workplace accommodations and specifically about how employers can recruit parents who can neither secure nor afford child care. Many employers (that already accommodate hybrid employment) want employees to come in at least three days, or 60 per cent of the time. Allowing employees to start work after they drop their kids off for school and end their day when they need to pick up their kids, benefit from employees who are in the workplace almost 70 per cent of the time. We're talking about this and many other workplace accommodations.

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