Randstad Canada has released the findings of its annual Randstad Employer Brand Research (REBR) for 2026, revealing that 23% of Canadian workers plan to change jobs. Among Gen Z respondents, that figure nearly doubles to 42%, signaling record mobility intentions for the youngest generation in the workforce.
Key Findings on Job Mobility
The survey, which polled over 3,500 Canadian workers across all age groups, education levels, and socioeconomic profiles, identifies the primary drivers for job changes. Among those planning to leave, 48% cite compensation as too low, 40% seek better work-life balance, and 34% point to a lack of growth opportunities. These departure drivers vary by demographic: digital talent is more likely to leave due to insufficient professional growth, while older generations are more motivated by salary concerns.
“This year’s data reminds us that the foundation of the employer-employee relationship hasn’t fundamentally changed: workers want to be fairly compensated and able to live their lives outside of work. What has changed is how quickly they act when they feel those needs aren’t being met,” said Marie-Eve Robitaille, Division President, Professional Talent Solutions at Randstad Canada.
Compensation and Work-Life Balance as Top Priorities
Compensation and work-life balance rank equally as the top priorities for candidates when choosing an employer, each cited by 66% of respondents. However, the importance of salary varies significantly by profile. It increases with age, from 54% among Gen Z to 77% among Baby Boomers. Women place a higher premium on compensation than men (69% vs. 62%). Additionally, 8 in 10 workers place great importance on benefits that support their lifestyle, including flexibility, time off, and health and wellness—all around 82%. Despite high expectations, 63% of workers already rate their current employer positively on work-life balance.
The Undervalued Role of Human Connection
As companies automate recruitment processes, the data emphasizes that human connection remains decisive. 68% of candidates consider in-person contact important when exploring a job opportunity. Personal referrals are remarkably effective: only 29% of candidates use them, yet 27% land a position through them. Social media also plays a significant discovery role; on Facebook, 62% of candidates land a job while only 53% are actively searching there.
About the Research
The Randstad Employer Brand Research (REBR) is the world’s largest independent employer brand study. Instead of asking companies about their own HR policies, it surveys workers directly on their perceptions, expectations, and real motivations. The 2026 Canadian edition was conducted among over 3,500 respondents, representing a broad cross-section of the workforce.
