This blog was written by Next Stop Canada Mentor Nabeel Jabbar.
As a newcomer to Canada, you will face many challenges adapting to your new home. Whether it be finding suitable accommodation, getting up to speed on understanding different systems (i.e. banking, government services, etc.) or understanding the culture, the way things are done in Canada may be very different than in your home country. While adapting to a new mode of living, you will also need to find a job, which will be its own challenge. These are three tips to help you get started!
1. Research before starting your job search
One of the most crucial things you should do when searching for a job is completing your research to understand what kind of job you want to do when you get here. As a prearrival immigrant, you have the advantage of starting this before you arrive. Once you know this, you can look for companies that offer that particular role.
Part of doing your research will be understanding the qualifications of a job. When looking at different postings, you may find that you have gaps in your resume that you will need to fill in order to be considered for a particular position. For example, if you are looking for accounting positions, you may find that you have the education required for the position but are lacking the experience. Understanding this early on can help you set goals and attain them faster than you had anticipated.
2. Create an updated, Canadian style resume
This can be the difference between landing a good job and a great job. Before submitting your resume to employers, spend some time learning how Canadians put their resumes together. This is a vital exercise to learn about the Canadian job market and how best to present yourself to employers. There are several free workshops and one-on-one counselling available for newcomers if you are unsure of how to start, so be sure to take advantage of them.
3. Networking for your professional needs
LinkedIn is a great place to start building your network in Canada. Once you have narrowed down the companies you are interested in working for, look for people who work within that company and connect with them. When connecting with professionals on LinkedIn, it is important to send them a short message detailing why you are doing so. It will show that you have a clear objective and value their insights. In your message, you can ask them to make time for a coffee or a video chat to get to know the intricacies of the jobs and titles. Some of the most successful professionals use this method. One thing you will quickly discover when you move to Canada is that people are really open to chatting, especially when there’s coffee involved.
You have made a brave life-altering decision by immigrating. Of course, this will come with some challenges. But there is a lot of support along the way, both before and after you arrive! Be sure to make use of those to maximize your job search in Canada.
Do not be afraid of the challenges that come your way in Canada, embrace them! They are only temporary. You will grow to love this country and what it offers.
Nabeel Jabbar, Next Stop Canada Mentor
