FINDING JOBS IN CANADA
Is it true that Canada is a land of opportunity? Many perceive the country as open and friendly towards immigrants. But in spite of its relatively open immigration policy, finding a job in Canada is not easy. We bring you a short summary of the most pressing questions that you might have if you are thinking about moving to Canada and starting a job search.
ABOUT WORKING IN CANADA
You have many resources you can use to get help with your job search in Canada, including:
Immigrant-serving organizations, who offer:
- résumé writing workshops
- job search training sessions
- other services to help you find work
Job Bank, which offers free occupational and career information about working in Canada, such as:
- jobs
- wages
- main duties
- employment trends
- educational requirements
Service Canada, which has important information about searching and applying for jobs
Research companies where you want to work by:
- check their website for jobs they post
- contact employers directly to ask if they are hiring
go to job fairs in your city or town, where you can meet employers and discuss jobs
browse job search websites and newspapers classified sections to see who is hiring
- Job Bank has up to 2,000 new jobs posted every day
- jobs.gc.ca has job postings for federal public service
use an employment agency that searches for jobs for you
- call or visit a Service Canada Centre near you for lists of government employment services and training help
ask family and friends if they know about open jobs
- many jobs aren’t advertised
- you’ll only learn about some jobs by speaking to people
STEPS TO GET A JOB IN CANADA
- It starts with your resume (or ‘CV’)
Ensure you have carefully read our resume format in Canada guide before sending your resume to employers in Canada. Poorly-written resumes — as well as resumes that list duties rather than personal or team achievements — will hinder you from making an impact and stop you from getting a job in Canada before even reaching the interview stage. Read these tips carefully, ensure you understand the objective, and apply these simple concepts to help your resume impress an employer. Your resume is the all-important first impression, so don’t fall short at this crucial first step when applying for jobs in Canada.
- Be selective
In many professions, responding to online job ads is not a truly effective way to find jobs in Canada. Be selective in your job search. Do not blanket bomb 30 companies with the same resume and cover letter, as managers in companies talk to each other. This is a common mistake. Networking, cold calling, and informational interviews are much more effective ways to distribute your resume.
- Be enthusiastic
Always ensure you have a contact for the company and follow up within a week of submitting your resume to show your interest. “Thank-you” emails after an interview set you apart from other candidates applying for jobs in Canada. These marginal gains can add up to getting a job in Canada.
- Get strong endorsements
It’s easier to find jobs in Canada if you have strong references. Try to obtain employment references from previous employers in your home country or other countries you have worked in, but only if relevant to the role.
- Use the tools available to you
Leverage LinkedIn. This social media tool for professionals is effectively your online resume and network. Recruiters and employers are using this tool every day to source candidates for jobs in Canada.
- Learn how to network
Effective networking allows you to gain useful insight and gain crucial contacts, both socially and professionally. Research networking events for your profession or ask contacts how best to meet more people in your field. Get the word out to all of the local contacts you have that you’re looking for work, and always look to build new contacts as it’s crucial to your success in a new city.
- Be open to help
Never turn down an offer of help when finding a job in Canada. Be proactive and determined. Send an email or pick up the phone to thank the person who offered you help or guidance.
- Get accredited
Your profession may require your foreign qualifications to be accredited in Canada. Professions such as teaching, physiotherapy, nursing, and social work, among others, usually require additional accreditation.
- Be confident – you deserve to be.
Moving to a new country is a challenge. Finding jobs in Canada when you have to build your support network from scratch is also tricky, but you can accomplish this too! It’s important to believe in yourself throughout the process – and to make sure others know you believe in yourself too.
- To conclude..
Remember our advice about not turning down help? Check in with your local library, as many host regular sessions with tips for getting jobs in your area.
YOUR RIGHTS AS AN EMPLOYEE
You should learn about provincial and federal labour laws before you begin work in Canada. You have the right to join a labour union in Canada. You often have to join a union whether you choose it or not. Union fees will be taken from your salary. You may ask for advice or help if you feel that your employer or union has treated you unfairly.
Contact an officer of the ministry in charge of labour in the province or territory where you work. You can also visit a Service Canada Centre to talk to a federal government labour affairs officer.
