The 10 Key Qualities Quebec Employers Are Looking for in 2025

1. Adaptability to Change

Quebec’s labor market is constantly changing due to new technologies, hybrid work models, labor shortages, and legislative updates. Employers value employees who can adapt quickly, regardless of unexpected situations.

Common examples in Quebec:

• Adjusting to rotating work schedules

• Quickly integrating into multicultural teams

• Working efficiently in hybrid (remote and on-site) environments

Job seeker tip: During interviews, highlight real situations where you successfully adapted to change in a previous role.

2. Emotional Intelligence (EI)

In Quebec, workplace relationships are a top priority. Employers seek individuals who can manage their emotions, communicate respectfully, and contribute to a healthy work environment.

Emotional intelligence includes:

• Empathy toward colleagues

• Constructive conflict management

• Respectful and positive communication

• Awareness of personal limits

👉 Highly sought after in healthcare, retail, customer service, and private security sectors.

3. Digital Skills

Digital transformation impacts all industries in Quebec, including SMEs, large corporations, public institutions, manufacturing, and private security.

In-demand digital skills:

• Proficiency in office tools (Microsoft 365, Google Workspace)

• Experience with management platforms (CRM, ERP)

• Basic understanding of cybersecurity

• Comfort with virtual communication tools (Teams, Zoom)

Bonus: The ability to quickly learn new software is a major asset for many roles.

4. Effective Communication (French and Often English)

Strong communication skills are essential for professional success in Quebec. Bilingualism (French/English) remains a significant competitive advantage, especially in metropolitan areas like Montreal.

Employers value the ability to:

• Clearly express ideas verbally and in writing

• Write professional emails

• Communicate with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds

• Present reports, projects, or recommendations

Quebec-specific insight: Cultural awareness and inclusivity—especially when working with immigrant communities—are increasingly important.

5. Teamwork and Collaboration

Team spirit is deeply embedded in Quebec’s workplace culture. Employers look for candidates who can collaborate effectively in multicultural and multi-generational teams.

Key collaboration skills:

• Respect for cultural differences

• Active participation in group projects

• Collective problem-solving

• Shared responsibility for outcomes

👉 Demonstrate this during interviews by sharing examples of successful team contributions.

6. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

Due to ongoing labor shortages, Quebec employers need professionals who can think independently and solve everyday challenges efficiently.

Associated qualities:

• Analyzing root causes

• Proposing practical, realistic solutions

• Making informed, timely decisions

• Taking initiative

Highly valued in sectors such as:

• Manufacturing and logistics

• Warehouse management

• Private security and field operations

• Customer service and operations management

7. Willingness to Learn (Continuous Learning)

With evolving technologies and work methods, Quebec workers must keep their skills up to date.

What employers look for:

• Professional curiosity

• Participation in continuing education

• Skills certifications (e.g., occupational health and safety, first aid, BSP training)

• Self-directed learning abilities

👉 On a Quebec-style resume, highlight recent training—even informal learning such as webinars, online courses, and micro-certifications.

8. Leadership Without a Formal Title

Even without a management role, employers value employees who take initiative, motivate others, and manage projects independently.

Key leadership traits:

• Initiative and accountability

• Positive influence on colleagues

• Willingness to take on extra responsibilities

• Proactive task management

👉 Quebec example: leading a continuous improvement project in a factory or proposing new procedures to improve security operations.

9. Autonomy and Accountability

With remote and hybrid work now widespread in Quebec, employers want workers who can manage their time and responsibilities independently.

Highly valued qualities:

• Meeting deadlines consistently

• Effective priority management

• Proactive work habits

• Reliability with minimal supervision

👉 In Quebec SMEs and startups, autonomy is often a decisive hiring factor.

10. Social and Environmental Awareness

More Quebec companies are committing to sustainable development and social responsibility initiatives.

What employers appreciate:

• Environmental awareness

• Community involvement or volunteer work

• Participation in diversity and inclusion initiatives

• Ideas to reduce the company’s environmental footprint

👉 Highlight concrete actions related to sustainability or social engagement in your application.

Summary

The Quebec job market in 2025 requires a balanced mix of technical skills, human qualities, and adaptability. Whether in private security, cleaning services, logistics, retail, or professional services, these qualities are now essential.

Job seekers: develop these skills to stay competitive.
Employers: integrate these criteria into your recruitment strategies to build strong, sustainable teams.

🚀 At Forstaff.ca, we help Quebec companies find top talent every day to meet today’s labor market challenges.
Looking to hire qualified candidates or find a job that matches your profile?
👉 Contact our recruitment experts today!