Manitoba Chambers of Commerce 2023 Business Outlook Survey Results

CPHR Manitoba sponsored the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce Business Outlook Survey again this year. The purpose of this survey is to gather statistically reliable feedback from Manitoba businesses that can be used to develop policies and positions to approach the various levels of government on their behalf for effective recovery strategies and support. The survey had 288 participants consisting of Manitoba business leaders. CPHR Manitoba included 5 questions in this year’s survey.

When asked about whether respondents see HR as mainly an operational function or a strategic and leadership function, the results were 17% operational, 23% strategic and leadership, 48% both, 4% neither and 9% not sure. These results show us that employers see the need for both operational and strategic HR. Compared to last year, operational has decrease (21% in 2022), and “both” has increased by 6% (42% in 2022). Additionally, medium-large businesses with 50+employees are more likely to believe HR is mainly strategic and leadership focused (31% vs.19%) or that it is both (56% vs 43%) compared to smaller businesses with <50 employees.

Awareness of CPHR increased by 9% since last year (61% in 2022 vs 70% in 2023). Additionally, Chambers members are more likely to have heard of the CPHR designation or CPHR (79% vs. 54% of non-members).

When looking at the perceived value of CPHR as a designation, the number of respondents that see it as valuable (including somewhat and very valuable) has increased slightly from last year (61% in 2022 vs 62% in 2023). When looking at Manitoba Chambers of Commerce members, 72% of members value CPHR, and almost one third of members see it as “very” valuable (32%). This shows us that our work with Chambers is going well as our perceived value increases with Chambers members. This shows our partnership and sponsorship with the Chambers supports and leads to value.   

Likelihood to hire a CPHR has increased slightly (56% in 2022 and 57% in 2023). Additionally, the number of not likely responses has decreased by 4% (31% in 2022 and 27% in 2023).

Manitoba Chambers of Commerce members are more likely to specifically look for an HR professional with a CPHR designation (70% vs. 32% of non-members).

This year, we introduced a new question asking whether respondents feel the HR profession protects organizations and the people who work in them. The feedback for this question is positive, the results showing 75% of respondents believe the profession provides protection.

Along with CPHR and HR specific results, the survey forecasts inflation to remain the primary challenge facing business leaders in Manitoba. Other key insights include growing business optimism despite challenges, ongoing struggles in the labour market, and a desire for government support in international trade.

View the full results here.