Written by: Kim Tobin , Project Coordinator, FAST & SPRINT of Immigrant Employment Council of BC
Relaunching your career in a new country can be challenging. But knowing how to prepare for a job search in a new country can be even harder! Navigating a new work environment, adapting to changes, and establishing a professional community can add to the challenges of finding a job in your field. Our team, Facilitating Access to Skilled Talent (FAST), has compiled seven meaningful career planning practices that can help you boost your employability:
1. Do your research on the Canadian labour market.
Canadian labour market information (LMI) online can provide country-wide information regarding which occupations are currently in-demand, what skills are essential in your industry, what is the expected wage, and much more. The government’s job bank is an excellent resource page: Explore an occupation – Job Bank
2. Create a career plan.
Planning what you want to achieve is a great way to ensure you successfully work towards your goal. Write down your employment goals and then determine the steps you need to accomplish to reach your targets. It is crucial to make sure that you give yourself employment goals that are reasonable, timely, and attainable!
3. Build a strong professional brand.
Social media can be a great way to advertise yourself, and platforms like LinkedIn can allow you to present yourself to potential employers on a larger scale. Always ensure your virtual brand is up-to-date, professional, and highlights your career goals and aspirations.
4. Network!
Finding a job in Canada can be easier if you have a well-established network to connect with professionals and potential employers in your field. Find ways to connect with professional communities online or join sessions and events related to your industry to help develop and grow your network across Canada.
5. Develop an elevator pitch
An elevator pitch is a brief speech that you can use to introduce yourself and highlight your skills to employers and other professionals. This pitch can be used during interviews, networking events, or even online to help you share your professional highlights, expertise, and field experience.
6. Look for development opportunities.
Continuous learning and development opportunities are great ways to upgrade your skills and improve your overall employability. Check out free learning resources on LinkedIn or Coursera, or connect with your career advisor for recommendations in your field. Employers value candidates and employees who are willing to develop their skills and capabilities for the workplace continually.
7. Know where you can find support.
Having support during your employment journey can make a big difference. In Canada, many settlement and employment services for newcomers can provide you with resources and support to better assist you in your job search. Programs like NextStop Canada can connect you with experts who can help you navigate your employment journey before you arrive.
Getting ready for work in Canada can be daunting. But by developing and implementing a career plan, you can become better prepared for the realities of job hunting in a new country and be successful in finding meaningful employment.
How can we help you?
FAST is a free, online competency assessment program for skilled immigrants that can support your career launch in Canada. Through FAST, learn how your skills and competencies compare to Canadian standards in six sectors: IT & Data Services, Biotech & Life Sciences, Culinary Arts, Accounting, Skilled Trades and Seniors Care.
Join FAST today to learn more about how you can better prepare for work in Canada and demonstrate your skills to employers across the country. Register now at www.fastbc.org or email [email protected].
