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Working in Canada as a Newcomer

Posted by: NIC Online Date: September 22, 2022 Category: Blog

One of the essential steps for newcomers to settle into their new lives in Canada is finding a job. Newcomers bring skills and experience that can tremendously help the Canadian workforce. However, working in Canada will require research and planning. Newcomers can optimize their job search by developing a strategy that meets their individual needs. 

Continue reading to learn more about things newcomers can consider to find a job in Canada! 

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Understanding the Canadian Labour Market

Do you know what Canadian employers are looking for in a good candidate? 

Canadian employers are looking for people that are a “good fit” for their team. Being a good fit goes beyond simply possessing industry-specific skills (or hard skills). In fact, employers tend to look for good communicators (with soft skills) who can get along with other colleagues. Naturally, this often means job seekers should have a firm grasp of English (or French).

Newcomers that want to be successful in their Canadian job search should consider the following:

  • Research the Canadian Labour Market
  • Prepare a job search plan or strategy
  • Understand how to access available resources to achieve career goals
  • Make informed decisions that support their professional goals

Self-Assessment and Career Planning

Take some time to reflect on your career aspirations. Think about your desired career and research the necessary steps that are required to achieve this goal. Consider thinking about short- and long-term goals that will move you towards your ideal job in Canada.

Other things to consider in the career planning process may include:

  • A list of companies or employers that you would like to work for
  • Whether or not you will need to find a survival job to pay living expenses
  • Determine if you require credential assessment if Canadian employers do not recognize your current credentials
  • Determine if you will require further training, certification, licensure, or membership to pursue your desired career

Barriers to Employment 

Barriers preventing newcomers from achieving their career goals may vary based on individual circumstances. Newcomers should identify these potential barriers and determine a strategy to overcome them.

Some common barriers for newcomers may include:

  • Language and communication skills: If English (or French) is not your first language, you may need to improve your skills through language training.
  • Knowledge of Canadian workplace culture and social norms: This includes understanding Canadian values, traditions, beliefs, interactions, behaviours, and attitudes so that you can fit in with other colleagues.
  • Lack of Canadian working experience: Volunteering in your desired industry is a great way to learn about industry standards, expectations, and requirements. 
  • Canadian employers do not recognize your credentials from your country of origin: Unfortunately, your overseas credentials may not be recognized in Canada. Accessing services that validate your credentials may help you find a job in your desired field. It’s always a good idea to get your credentials assessed regardless if you are in a regulated or non-regulated profession for long terms employment growth in Canada.  Usually in Ontario, newcomers will use World Education Services (WES) or International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) for credential evaluation that is non-regulated. However, if your chosen profession is regulated, you should contact the relevant regulatory body before assessing your credentials.
  • A lack of a professional network in Canada: Finding a mentor in a similar position as a newcomer can significantly help build your professional network. The TRIEC Mentoring Partnership Program (a partner of Achēv) provides coaches who can connect you with a mentor to help build your network. Through mentorship, newcomers can learn much about succeeding in their desired industry. Social media platforms such as LinkedIn can also help grow a professional network.

Resources for Newcomers

Are you a newcomer looking for support services in Ontario? Newcomers can access free settlement and employment resources from the experts with NIC Online. Speak with expert counsellors, watch informative webinars, and more by registering for our services today! 

Click here to register now. 

NIC Online is coordinated by Achēv and funded by IRCC

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