This blog was written by Andrew Salmon, Digital Media Marketing Manager at Prepare for Canada.
Even though many things have changed over the past year, finding and keeping a job in Canada is a top priority for newcomers. This has always been a challenge, and COVID-19 has not made it any easier. There is some good news though, thanks to technology and the ability to work from home there are still a great many jobs available, although the best ways to find work have changed.
Below are some great tips that will help you to navigate this time of uncertainty and ensure that you give yourself the best possible chance of getting noticed by a Canadian employer.
1. Accept that things are different now
A lot of online resources that provide information regarding job search in Canada are now out of date and not very helpful. You need to acknowledge that the job hiring process in Canada is very different now and so you need up to date information on how to conduct your job search.
2. Stay positive
Even if you find that the companies that you want to work for aren’t hiring right now, it’s important to know that the situation is changing every day. Keeping a positive attitude and being ready to jump on an opportunity when it presents itself will put you on the path to success.
3. Be patient
When applying for work in Canada as a newcomer you may find that it can take a while. Even once you get the ball rolling with a company’s recruitment process it can take weeks to make it through the interview stages.
4. Be open to a change in career
Flexibility is something that you should embrace as you prepare to arrive in Canada. You may find that you are able to find work in an industry that you had not considered before and that you enjoy it. Casting a wider net when it comes to your job search will open up more doors and increase the chances of you finding work in Canada quickly.
5. Don’t shy away from temporary work
If you are unable to find a permanent position, then you should look into temporary employment. Many companies have changed how they hire. If you perform well in this role then there is a good chance that you will be able to transition into a permanent position when the time is right. Also, gaining any Canadian work experience is extremely important and will set you apart from other recently arrived immigrants. Volunteering can also be an excellent way to establish some Canadian work experience during this uncertain time.
6. Make sure your online presence is in good shape
Updating and proofreading your LinkedIn profile has always been an essential part of the job search process. Now that employers are having to rely more and more on digital introductions, this is more important than ever. Your electronic resume and online application will be the first point of contact with any employer and they must be perfect and help you to stand out from the crowd.
7. Get ready to be on camera
Online interviews are shaping up to be the new normal. A good webcam and professional background can go a long way to making an excellent first impression. Getting familiar with the technology now so that you’re confident on camera will serve you very well.
8. Talk to experts
Everyone’s situation is different so being able to ask an expert about how to find work in Canada can be extremely helpful. Live webinars offer a great way to connect with an expert and get your questions answered.
As you are applying for a job in Canada, you need to make sure that your resume conforms to Canadian standards. Download Prepare for Canada’s free Canadian Style Resume Template to learn how to do this with ease. Here are some quick tips to get you started.
- Keep it short and simple
- Tailor the resume for each job description
- Include volunteer work
- Clean up social media accounts
- Focus on formatting your resume
- Use keywords
- Check, double-check, and triple-check everything
