Despite mixed economic signals for most of 2003, Canadian employers expect to end the year with cautiously optimistic staffing plans, according to the latest Manpower Employment Outlook Survey.

Asked about their staffing plans for the fourth quarter, 23% of employers intend to add staff, 15% expect to reduce staff, while 59% expect no changes for the October – December period.

“For a year in which the Canadian economy has faced many challenges including a rising dollar, SARS and Mad Cow Disease, employer confidence has remained somewhat healthy throughout 2003,” said Lori Procher, vice president and general manager for Manpower Canada, in a news release.

“The fourth quarter Net Employment Outlook is 8%, down from 10% at this time last year but in line with the typical downturn that takes place at the end of the year.”

Three months ago Canada’s projected Net Employment Outlook of 30% was the highest recorded amongst the 18 countries participating.

“Employment estimates across all four Canadian regions are relatively consistent with the overall national Outlook,” said Procher. “Atlantic Canada leads with a Net Employment Outlook of 12%, ahead of Western Canada at 10%, with Ontario and Quebec both at 8%.”

The survey found that the Finance, Insurance & Real Estate sector continues to suffer with two consecutive weak quarters. Only 11% of employers polled expect to add staff by year’s end, which follows mild third quarter intentions as only 14% of employers expected increases. Overall, 2003 represents one of the worst Employment Outlooks for Finance, Insurance & Real Estate in seven years.

Durable Goods Manufacturing continues to be a concern with 17% of employers planning to hire but the same anticipating cutbacks, resulting in a flat Net Employment Outlook.

Non-durable Goods Manufacturing is expected to slip in the fourth quarter with employers planning reductions at 17%, while only 16% intend to hire additional staff.

The Services sector is following an outstanding third quarter projection by a quiet fourth quarter where 22% of employers plan staff additions, but 21% plan cutbacks.

As for the Wholesale & Retail Trades, which is traditionally strong with retailers gearing up for the holiday season, the fourth quarter is somewhat disappointing with only 38% of employers planning to add staff, compared to last year when 47% anticipated staff additions. Employers in this sector seem to be expecting a downturn in holiday staffing.