This blog was written by Adilla Saloojee, Project Coordinator, Canadian Employment Connections with ACCES Employment in 2021, and updated in 2024.
There are many unknowns when you are trying to set yourself up for success in a post-pandemic job market filled with remote and hybrid remote positions.
One thing is for sure, onboarding for the foreseeable future will likely be done remotely and interacting online with your colleagues is much more common than it was before.
The one thing the post-pandemic job market allows us to do is to nurture new aspects of our professional selves. Kazi Kabir joined the Canadian Employment Connection’s Program as an Employment Consultant during the COVID-19 pandemic. His reflections help us to consider what it takes to be successful while working remotely.
1. Be Adaptable
Canadian employers will be looking for someone adaptable.
While being flexible was once aligned with a willingness to travel to a new location for work, it is now about having an open mindset, adjusting to new work methods, and taking on additional responsibilities.
Kazi shared, “it was difficult to adjust to a new workplace culture without being able to meet my team members in person,” yet, he started his journey with acceptance. Acceptance that he will get through unconventional times and grow from it. Kazi embraced the various collaboration tools and platforms available to him, such as Teams and ZOOM, and invested in the opportunities to share and nurture a thriving collaborative culture.
2. Foster Your Own Professional Development
Connect with colleagues from every program at every opportunity. Kazi reflected on how colleagues can cross-train you by introducing you to new concepts using local industry language and examples. Networking is an essential skill for career development as it is for job searching and is a powerful way to foster connections.
3. Initiate a New Conversation
Be purposeful in scheduling your conversations.
Maximize your learning opportunities, and be prepared to initiate performance-related discussions. Inquiring about your performance and asking for feedback helps you grow in your role and shows leadership. It also demonstrates a willingness to evolve professionally.
Kazi’s first employment experience in Canada included setting up bi-weekly one-on-one meetings with his manager to review his professional development and growth and discuss upcoming opportunities to broaden his professional experience.
4. Take Breaks to Boost Productivity
One of the most important things to keep in mind when working in any position is your health. It is important to take short breaks for relaxation while working remotely by stepping away from your workstation. It can help prevent burnout, improve focus and boost productivity at work. Taking short breaks to stretch or walk around is also good for your physical health, as it can help you avoid cramps or other adverse effects from sitting down for too long.
In the face of a frequently fluctuating job market, we remind you that you may find sources of unfamiliarity, yet you can still be in a position of choice. Become masterful at acting within your power.
