Pay Growth Continues Across Canada but Pressures Remain

HR Trends: Pay Growth Continues Across Canada but Pressures Remain

A recent survey shows that average pay in Canada has increased over the past 12 months, reflecting ongoing efforts by employers to manage inflation and retain talent. While wage growth has provided some relief to employees, many organizations are still balancing higher labor costs with business performance. Employers are also becoming more selective in how they allocate salary increases, often linking them to critical roles and performance. The data suggests that compensation strategies are shifting from broad increases to more targeted adjustments.

HR Insights: Executive Burnout Signals Deeper Leadership Strain

A growing number of senior leaders in Australia are facing burnout, driven by sustained pressure, long working hours, and rising expectations. Many executives are operating without adequate recovery time, which is affecting decision-making and long-term performance. The issue is not limited to workload but also includes emotional strain and constant accountability. Organizations are beginning to recognize that leadership fatigue can impact the entire workforce. This has led to early discussions on redesigning leadership roles to reduce pressure and improve sustainability.

HR Tips and Tricks

Tip: When promoting an employee, create a one-page document that clearly defines what success looks like in the new role within the first 90 days. This reduces confusion and shortens the adjustment period.

Trick: Monitor employees who reduce participation in meetings, feedback, or internal communication. This early signal often appears weeks before formal resignation and gives HR time to intervene.

HR Case Files: Return-to-Office Mandate Raises Age Discrimination Concerns

A former AT&T director has filed a lawsuit alleging that return-to-office policies were used in a way that pushed out older employees. The claim suggests that such mandates may have a disproportionate impact on certain groups, even if they appear neutral on the surface. The case raises broader concerns about how workplace policies are applied and whether they create unintended bias.

Key Takeaways:

• Neutral workplace policies can still lead to discrimination claims

• Return-to-office mandates may affect workforce segments differently

• Legal risk increases when policy impact is not assessed properly

• Documentation and fairness in enforcement remain essential

HR Toolkit

Resources

New academic research highlights the importance of family support in shaping leadership outcomes for women. The study shows that encouragement, stability, and shared responsibilities at home can influence career progression and leadership readiness. It also points to the need for organizations to recognize external factors that affect professional growth. This perspective adds depth to leadership development strategies, which often focus only on workplace interventions.

Events

The HR in Hospitality Conference has opened registration for its 2026 event, bringing together HR leaders from the hospitality sector. The event will focus on workforce challenges, talent retention, and leadership development specific to hospitality. Attendees can expect sessions that connect industry trends with practical solutions. It also provides a platform for networking and peer learning across organizations.

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