A Human Resources software solution provider based out of Quebec City has released an annual report.
Folks this month published its “2026 State of HR Report,” which reveals insights following a survey of more than 400 small-to-medium businesses in Canada.
The report delves into areas such as recruitment trends, the integration of artificial intelligence in HR processes, technology adoption, employee experience, and challenges anticipated for 2026, in order to equip with SMBs the knowledge they need to navigate the future of HR effectively.
“The 2026 State of HR Report is a testament to our commitment to empowering small and medium-sized businesses with the tools and insights they need to thrive,” explains Jimmy Plante, chief executive officer of Folks.
“As the HR landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for organizations to stay informed and adapt to new trends and technologies,” he says.
One trend in 2026 from the report is that “Employee development is becoming a retention strategy.”
Regular readers of TechTalent.ca are well aware of upskilling, a key workforce development tactic that has gained substantial popularity in recent years.
“Developing talent,” says Folks content marketing lead Morgane Lança, “is how you retain talent.”
Skill-based hiring is also “growing fast.”
This approach “focuses on what candidates can do—their abilities and strengths—rather than only their degrees or past titles,” suggests Lança, which can better align talent to roles.
On the tech front, automation “is no longer optional,” the report argues.
Artificial intelligence “is already shaping workflows in many organizations, especially when it comes to recruiting,” says Lança.
The tech AI “can be a competitive advantage, but the difference will come” from implementation and strategy.
The report findings “highlight the increasing role of technology and AI in HR, as well as the growing importance of enhancing employee experience,” Plante noted.
“We believe that by understanding these trends, SMBs can better position themselves for success in the coming years,” he said.
Folks was founded in 2010.
