Worker confidence up, but job satisfaction drops: report

Many workers also feel their work holds at least some meaning or purpose and that they are aligned with their company’s vision and values.

Work-life balance has now emerged as the top workplace priority for workers, particularly among younger employees, according to a previous Randstad report.

And while most workers believe they have opportunities to gain skills and experiences to help achieve their career goals, far fewer report having opportunities for promotion or movement within their current organisation, according to ManpowerGroup.

“The advance of [artificial intelligence] (AI) means every company is transforming to survive and thrive. But digital transformation is as much about people as it is about technology,” says Becky Frankiewicz, president and chief strategy officer at ManpowerGroup. “The future of work isn't about control, it's about partnership. When companies invest in people, people invest back. And right now, people want more; more balance, more flexibility, more humanity, and importantly – more development.”

Job security, turnover 

Despite increased confidence, only 65% of workers feel their job is secure over the next six months, according to ManpowerGroup’s survey of more than 13,750 workers across 19 countries—including Canada—conducted from March 14 to April 11, 2025.

Just over half said they are satisfied with their job and unlikely to voluntarily leave in the next six months.

About one-third (34%) of managers are now bracing for potential job loss in the coming six months.

Nearly 30% of hiring managers across Canada anticipate that staff turnover will increase before the year’s end, Express Employment Professionals previously reported.

However, managers themselves are not secure about their employment—77% feel their careers are at risk, primarily due to economic instability, restructuring, and AI, according to  ManpowerGroup’s Global Talent Barometer report.

“Despite growing uncertainty, workers are now more confident overall compared to 2024,” reads part of the report.

“As organisations look to retain essential talent, it’s imperative to focus on key factors within their control that are driving these positive sentiments. Continue strengthening and fostering trust between managers and employees, promoting work-life balance, and providing transparency regarding opportunities for professional development and advancement within the company.”

How to increase job satisfaction among employees?

To boost job satisfaction and increase retention, Robert Half suggests that employers focus on the following, among others:

• Communication – As a leader, ensure you promote timely, constructive, and positive communication across the entire team. Regularly connect with each team member to understand their workload and job satisfaction.
• Training and development – Upskilling is critical as technology continues to evolve. Employers should invest in employees’ professional growth by supporting virtual conferences, offering tuition reimbursement, or funding continuing education. Don’t overlook succession planning as a tool for developing leadership skills.
• Recognition and rewards – Recognise employees who go the extra mile and clearly explain how their efforts benefit the organisation.
• Acknowledgement of milestones – Celebrate achievements both big and small. Whether your team meets a major project deadline early or an employee marks a five-year anniversary, take time to acknowledge the milestone—even virtually.

While artificial intelligence (AI) is being embraced to tackle a variety of challenges, it's also deepening the gender gap in the workforce, according to a report from the World Economic Forum.