Canadian Networking Fractures as Tech Fuels Transactional Shift
Event summary
- A survey by Express Employment Professionals and The Harris Poll reveals 70% of Canadian hiring managers and 76% of job seekers perceive networking as transactional.
- The survey, conducted in November 2025, polled 504 hiring decision-makers and 502 job seekers in Canada.
- 78% of job seekers and 78% of hiring managers attribute the transactional nature of networking to online platforms.
- 70% of hiring managers now evaluate networking contacts based solely on influence or usefulness.
The big picture
The survey highlights a growing disconnect between the intended purpose of professional networking and its current execution, particularly exacerbated by the rise of online platforms. This trend reflects a broader societal shift towards transactional interactions in many aspects of life, potentially eroding trust and collaboration within the Canadian workforce. Express Employment Professionals, as a major staffing franchisor, is uniquely positioned to observe and potentially influence this dynamic.
What we're watching
- Relationship Dynamics
- The divergence between desired and actual networking behavior suggests a potential shift in professional norms, which could impact employer branding and talent acquisition strategies.
- Tech Adoption
- How staffing agencies and professional organizations adapt their online platforms to foster genuine connection, rather than transactional interactions, will be critical for maintaining relevance.
- Recruitment Strategies
- The emphasis on influence and usefulness in networking contacts may lead to a further commoditization of professional relationships, impacting the value of organic referrals and mentorship programs.
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