Business New Zealand and the Council of Trade Unions are urging the Government to reveal its plans for infrastructure and economic stimulus.
Both groups say employers are trying to hold onto skilled staff, and certainty around major projects may help retain some workers.
Council of Trade Unions chief economist Peter Conway said knowing the specifics of the Government's planned spending on infrastructure could help firms retain staff until the economy picks up.
The groups suggest bringing house insulation projects forward in the regions, and continuing Labour's affordable housing policy to boost the construction sector.
Thousands of people are predicted to lose their jobs in the next few months as unemployment hits 6%.
