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    How to Hire Employees for Your Contracting Business (And Keep Them)

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    Charles Baril
    Author
    April 13, 2026

    The Labor Shortage is Real

    Across Canada, from BC to Nova Scotia, contractors are feeling the pinch of the skilled trades shortage. Finding someone who shows up on time, works hard, and knows what they're doing feels like finding a unicorn. But the problem isn't always the talent pool—often, it's the hiring process.

    Attracting Top Talent

    Great employees already have jobs. To attract them, you need to offer more than just a paycheck. You need to offer a career path, a positive culture, and stability.

    • Write Better Job Descriptions: Stop posting "Now Hiring Carpenters." Write about the projects they'll work on, the equipment they'll use, and the culture of your team.
    • Always Be Recruiting (ABR): Don't wait until you're desperate to start looking. Build relationships with local trade schools and suppliers.

    The Interview Process

    A good interview for a tradesperson shouldn't just be sitting across a desk. Include a practical assessment or a paid half-day trial. See how they interact with your current crew and how they handle tools.

    Retention: Keeping Your Best People

    Once you find good people, you must fight to keep them. This means paying competitive wages, offering benefits, and providing clear paths for advancement. Most importantly, treat them with respect. A toxic work environment will drive away top talent faster than low pay.

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