Starting Your Career in Canada As a New Immigrant
Job Hunting in Canada for Newcomers
We often get asked how to find a job in Canada as a new immigrant. Starting a new life here is exciting, but finding a job can be tough. Larissa, our trusted Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) with six years of experience in recruitment, will guide you through it. By learning about the job market, preparing well, and using available resources, you can greatly improve your chances of getting a job that fits your skills. Here’s a simple guide to help you find a job in Canada.
Employment Opportunities in Canada
If you are just arriving in Canada, it's important to think about where you can find a job easily. The table below shows information about job vacancies and employment rates in different provinces. By focusing on areas with higher job vacancy rates, you can increase your chances of finding a job quickly and settling into your new community successfully.
Employment and Job Vacancy in Canada by Province ( Mar 2024)
Statistics Canada: Table 14-10-0371-01 Job vacancies, payroll employees, and job vacancy rate by provinces and territories, monthly, unadjusted for seasonality
Research the Canadian Job Market
Before you begin your job search, it’s important to understand the Canadian job market. Different regions have different demands, so researching where your skills are most needed can help you focus your efforts.
Check job portals and websites such as Job Bank, Indeed, Workopolis, and Monster. Look at industry reports and labor market information to see which sectors are growing and hiring. This research can guide you to opportunities matching your skills and experience.
Secret to Optimize Your Job Search
Here's a helpful secret that has worked wonders. When you find job openings in the field you want to work in, pick the best 3 to 5 listings. Copy them into a Word document and highlight all the important keywords, acronyms, and common phrases. Use as many of these keywords as possible in your resume to make it perfect for those jobs.
Crafting a Canadian Resume
Canadian employers have specific expectations for resumes and cover letters. Ensure your application materials meet these standards. Keep your resume concise, typically one to two pages, focusing on achievements and quantifying your accomplishments where possible.
Tips to Increase Your Interview Chances:
Keep It Short and Sweet: Your resume should be one to two pages long. Employers often skim resumes, so make sure yours is easy to read and to the point. According to studies recruiters spend an average of just seven to nine seconds reviewing a resume.
Use Achievements: Focus on what you’ve done well in your previous jobs. Use numbers to show your achievements whenever possible, as this can make you stand out. For example, “Increased sales by 20%” or “Managed a team of 10 people.”
Customize Your Resume: Make your resume fit each job you apply for. Show the skills and experiences that match the job you're trying to get.
Use Relevant Keywords: Use words from the job description in your resume. Many employers use software to check resumes, and using the right words can help yours get noticed.
Bonus Tip: Use a tool like Jobscan, a resume checker to optimize your resume for keywords.
Use a Clean Layout: Make your resume look simple and professional. Use common fonts like Arial or Times New Roman and bullet points to make it easy to read for both people and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Include Contact Information: Your contact information needs to be easy to find and up-to-date at the top of your resume.
What to Avoid in Your Resume:
Don’t Include Your Photo: This is a big one, especially for Latin Americans. Please do not include your portrait. Employers prefer to focus on your skills and experience rather than your appearance.
Don’t Include Personal Information: This includes personal details like your age, weight, marital status, immigration status, or hobbies unless they are directly related to the job. Keeping this information out helps you avoid any potential bias.
Don’t Include Irrelevant Information: Avoid adding details that are not related to the job you want or unrelated work experience. Stick to information that shows why you are the best fit for the job.
Don’t Overdo It: Being overqualified for a position can make potential employers worried and it can hurt your chances. Tailor your resume to the job you are applying for without overwhelming the employer.
Don’t Forget Proofreading: Check your resume for spelling and grammar mistakes. Errors can make a bad impression, so it's important to proofread carefully. Asking someone else to review your resume can also help catch mistakes you might have missed.
Writing an Effective Cover Letter
A cover letter is a one-page document that you send along with your resume when applying for a job. It introduces you to the employer and explains why you are a good fit for the role. A well-written cover letter can make a strong impression and set you apart from other candidates.
The Importance of a Cover Letter
Everyone I know does not like writing a cover letter, so I am going to give you a few reasons why it is important for you to write one. A cover letter allows you to briefly introduce yourself to the employer and explain why you are interested in the position. It provides an opportunity to show a bit of your personality and enthusiasm for the job, helping you make a personal connection with the employer. Especially if this is your first job in Canada, I strongly recommend having one for each application you make. You wouldn't want this to be the reason you were not invited for more interviews.
Networking in the Canadian Market
Networking is crucial in the Canadian job market. Many job opportunities are not advertised and are filled through referrals. Attend industry-specific events, job fairs, and professional meetups. Websites like Meetup and Eventbrite can help you find events in your area. Create a professional LinkedIn profile and connect with people in your industry. Join relevant groups and participate in discussions to increase your visibility.
Building a Strong Online Presence
Creating a strong online presence can really help your job search. I strongly recommend using LinkedIn to show your skills and experience. Connect with people in your field and join groups to stay updated on industry trends and job openings.
Applying for Jobs in Canada
Start applying for jobs that match your skills and experience. Keep trying and apply to many positions to increase your chances. Customize your resume and cover letter for each job to show your relevant skills. After applying, follow up with the employer to show interest and excitement.
Preparing for Canadian Job Interviews
Getting an interview is a big step. Preparing well can make a big difference. Learn about the company’s values, mission, and the details of the job you want. Be ready to answer questions about your experience, skills, and why you want to work there. Practice with a friend or use online resources to get better at answering questions.
Consider Temporary Jobs
While you are searching for your ideal job, think about taking temporary or survival jobs. This can help you get Canadian work experience, improve your language skills, and meet new people.
Final Thoughts
Embarking on your career journey in Canada as a new immigrant is a significant and rewarding challenge. With the right preparation, research, and networking, you can navigate the job market successfully and find a position that suits your skills and ambitions. Remember, persistence and adaptability are key. At Up Immigration, we are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Good luck on your job search if you need help you can send us a Message, WhatsApp or book a consultation.
