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Employers and jobseekers are finding the best conditions in a generation, according to the 2006 ranking of Canada's Top 100 Employers.

"We're now seeing exceptional workplace practices become increasingly widespread. More employers are recognizing the demographic changes Canada is facing and asking 'How do we improve our workplace practices to attract – and keep – the talented employees we need to stay in business,'" says Anthony Meehan, president of Mediacorp, which publishes the annual rankings.

Eight organizations either based or with significant operations in Ottawa made the Top 100 this year – including Adobe Systems, Cognos, General Dynamics Canada and the Export Development Corp. Others making the list of finalists include the Canadian Institute for Health Information. The RCMP, MBNA Canada Bank and the National Capital Commission.

The selection process is overseen by author Richard Yerema, with advice from a four-member panel of academics.

According to Mr. Yerema, demographics are playing an increasing role in the benefits offered by top employers.

"We're seeing more attention being paid to issues such as time-off for elder care, retiree benefits and salary top-up for compassionate leave," says Mr. Yerema. "Forward-thinking employers are taking the lead in this area because they recognize that these issues are becoming much more important to employees."

Innovative workplace practices are becoming commonplace, creating what the authors call the best conditions for job-seekers and employees in a generation.

"This year's Top 100 employers are probably the most formidable competitors for human capital we've ever seen, and employers who fail to take note of their innovations do so at their peril."