How to Find Jobs in Canada as a Newcomer [2024 Comprehensive Guide]

Get Job In Canada Easily

Overview Canada boasts more than 20 million workers, with newcomers playing an increasingly important role. Landed immigrants now make up more than 25 per cent of Canada’s workforce.Despite this, there are many promising job opportunities in Canada, and more than 50,000 Canadian job applications remain unfilled each day . .

 In this comprehensive guide, CanadaVisa will show you the necessary steps for a successful job search in Canada. First, you will see the importance of thorough research. This includes figuring out how to best position yourself and identifying employers that align with your goals. Additionally, you will gain valuable insight into navigating regulated businesses to Canada.

Second, you will examine the intricacies of preparing a resume. It is important to adapt your resume to Canadian norms and create persuasive letters. Additionally, you will receive guidance on optimizing your LinkedIn profile for maximum impact. Third, you will explore ways to enhance your career prospects through both personal and online networking, as well as mentoring opportunities. 

Next, you will know where to search for job postings in Canada and how to apply for positions that match your aspirations. Lastly, you will learn important tips for preparing for interviews in Canada, ensuring that you are well-prepared to impress potential employers. At the end of this guide, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about job searching in Canada, providing valuable support throughout your job search journey.

Step 1: First Step is Deep Research:

Screening Many job seekers tend to overlook the importance of screening, choosing to get directly involved in the resume and mass job search process however. However, doing a thorough research upfront can pay off big time by helping you target projects that align with your career goals. Follow the steps below to thoroughly research your options: 

Step 1: Start by visualizing where you see yourself in the coming years. Know your interests and ambitions, as this will guide you through the entire job search process. 

Step 2: Reach out to individuals and organizations within your chosen profession and industry. Request phone calls or meetings and seek career advice. Networking is invaluable not only for exposure to job opportunities but also for learning the steps you can take to land your ideal job in Canada. Many individuals and organizations are open to meeting newcomers over coffee and offering advice. Check out our "Networking" section below for additional tips on networking in Canada. 

Step 3: Identify employers you want to apply to by browsing job listings. Below, you will find a list of various sources where you can access the current job posting. Choose positions that match your knowledge, skills, and experience. 

Step 4: Do thorough research on the employers you have identified. Visit their LinkedIn profiles and the "About" section of the website to understand their history, products/services, and company background. Check if you've been up to date on their "In the news" section of their website or through Google News. Additionally, check their social media accounts for the latest updates. Gather relevant information, including from potential managers, that will help you create a customized resume and during your interview, and demonstrate your readiness. 

Step 5: With your research completed, focus on effective self-management. Identify any pain points the employer may be experiencing and pinpoint opportunities. Change your work experience and background to address these pain points, and position yourself as the solution to their challenges. Present yourself as someone who is qualified to address the issues they face.

Step 1a: Employment in the Formal Sector

 Approximately 20% of Canada falls under formal employment. Certain professionals and tradespeople must meet specific skills and training requirements in order to conduct their business in Canada, with the goal of protecting the health and safety of Canadians. For those who wish to work in a regulated profession, it is important to obtain recognition for foreign credentials and obtain a license or permit. In Canada, provincial or territorial legislatures have recognized regulated professional services. Therefore, the requirements for working in a regulated profession vary, depending on the region or territory in which they reside. What types of professions are regulated? They typically work on health, safety, or ethics regulations. This includes healthcare professionals such as doctors and nurses, engineers and skilled tradesmen, as well as lawyers and accountants. With more than 500 certification holders across Canada, the first step is usually determining which province to relocate to. Subsequently, identify the business you wish to operate in Canada, followed by confirming whether it is regulated in the province in which you wish to operate. To find out if your business is regulated, follow these steps: 

Step 1: Visit the Canadian Information Center for International Certification (CICIC) website, which is maintained by governments across Canada, which and the most authoritative certification authority in Canada. 

Step 2: On the CICIC website, search for your business and specify the region in which you want to work. You can search by keyword or National Occupational Classification (NOC) code. 

Step 3: Click on your business in the search. 

Step 4: On the next page, go to "2. Confirm the business rule" and go to the "Rules and Rules" tab. 

Step 5: If the project is regulated, consider contacting the law enforcement agency listed in the "Contact the law enforcement agency" section. This allows you to search for certification programs specific to the selected region or territory. The regulator's website provides detailed steps to obtain a license to work in the profession of your choice in Canada. Consider enrolling in bridging programs, which help internationally trained individuals obtain training and support within Canada to obtain the necessary licenses or certifications to practice in a Canadian province or territory in. Additionally, there are more than 500 immigrant-serving organizations across Canada that offer free assistance to newcomers, including job search assistance and language skills development.

Step 2: How to Write a Cover Letter and Resume to Land the Job

Tailoring your resume to the Canadian market is critical to your success. Here, we outline the basics to include, avoid, and how to create an effective cover letter, as well as optimize your LinkedIn profile. Make sure your resume is in the Canadian style, and is generally shorter than a resume elsewhere. Tailor each resume to the specific position, as formal resumes do not go over well in the Canadian workplace. Keep it brief; for the less experienced, one page is sufficient. 

Catch the reader’s attention quickly, consider searching hiring managers for multiple resumes. Establish a plan with a clear flow, and start with a business summary. Focus on appropriate roles and individual/team development. Add technical/software skills if applicable. Dos: Use one character throughout. Convert academic grades to Canadian equivalents. Include volunteer work, if applicable. Use the right keywords. Include certifications/licenses and foreign language skills. Include contact information for Canadian telephone numbers. 

Don't: Use "resume" or "curriculum vitae." Include references; assume that employers will ask if it is necessary. Include personal information such as date of birth, gender, race, or marital status. For help with a Canadian style resume, consider CanadaVisa Canada Style Resume Builder. Documentation: Create any project documentation you wish, naming the project manager if you know it. Introduce yourself, describe the position you’re applying for, and talk about why you’re interested and qualified. Support your resume without repetition. 

Conclude with thanks and the intention to follow through. Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile: LinkedIn is essential for professional networking and job search. Make sure your profile picture is professional and high quality. Use a title with a current or previous job title to allow you to search. Briefly summarize your skills and problem solving skills. Include relevant work and education information, ask for recommendations from former managers. Finally, include your contact information for access.

Step 3: Increase Your Social Network

Networking is an important tool for newcomers to Canada in their job search. It offers valuable insights, career advice, and job guidance that may not be publicly advertised, tapping into Canada’s “hidden job market”. 

For better networking, consider these steps: Create a 30-second elevator that highlights your value and unique skills. For example: "Hi, I'm Anand Patel, a game developer with four years of experience within Unity. I'm eager to continue my career in Canada and would love to co-develop in that space." this will be played. Use your existing contacts in Canada, such as family, friends, or acquaintances, who can introduce you to their network. Attend networking events or business events related to your business. Platforms like MeetUp.com and Eventbrite.com can help you find the right events. Give your time to meet new people, experience Canadian entrepreneurship, and immerse yourself in the local entrepreneurial culture. 

Create a LinkedIn profile if you haven’t already. This platform is important for professional networking and job searching, and allows you to connect with others in your industry and explore career opportunities. Join professional associations related to your industry. These groups provide industry insights and networking opportunities with key professionals. 

Find a mentor in your industry. An experienced professional can provide valuable guidance and support during your job search journey. Organizations serving immigrants listed on the IRCC website often offer free counseling and employment assistance. By actively communicating, you can build a strong personal brand, expand your professional network, and increase your chances of getting a job in Canada.

Step 4: Apply Now Where You Can

Here are some resources and tips to help you navigate the job market in Canada: 

Canada's Job Bank: Managed by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), which offers job listings and employment services for a list of. Google for Jobs: Use the Google search engine to find job listings by entering relevant keywords. LinkedIn: A professional networking site with a dedicated job search section. Other popular websites include Indeed, Monster.ca, ZipRecruiter, Glassdoor.ca, and Eluta.ca. CanadaVisa also offers tailored Job Search Tools for newcomers. Organizations Serving Immigrants: IRCC funds more than 500 organizations across Canada, many of which provide free employment assistance.

Direct Employer Application: Visit the employment sections of specific employers’ websites to apply directly. Workplace and Recruiters: Organizations like Robert Half, Randstad Canada, and Hayes Canada can help connect you with potential employees at no cost. County and City Websites: Explore county/territory and city websites for additional resources and job listings specific to your location. Email Applications: 

Consider applying via email, especially if you learned about the opportunity through networking. After asking: Politely follow up a few days later to keep the interest. Send thank you emails to the interviewers and confirm your interest in the position. Additional Tip: Resolve tough issues from past employers, as requested by many Canadian employers. Maintain a positive and patient attitude during the job search process. Choose from the jobs you’re applying for to organize your application materials and get you interview ready. Quality over quantity often produces the best results.

Step 5: Get Ready for the Interview

Preparing for a job interview in Canada can be challenging, especially in a new work culture. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate the process: Study the Job Description: Understand the requirements and expectations described in the job title. 

Plan questions to ask the interviewer and submit to their expectations. Research the Employer: Research the employer’s website, press releases, and LinkedIn profile. Understand their products/services, recent updates, and company culture to provide tailored answers during the interview. Prepare for “Tell me about yourself.” 

The question: Give information about your experience and education. Highlight what makes you unique and position yourself as the solution to the employer’s needs. Prepare for common interview questions: Use resources like Monster.com to prepare for basic, behavioral, compensation, and career development questions. 

Practice recalling situations from past experiences to inform your behavior in different situations. Use Your Interviews: Practice with family or friends and consider participating in mock interviews offered by immigrant-serving organizations or staffing companies. Practice speaking loudly and maintaining a professional posture. Prepare Your CV, Portfolio, and Work Samples: Make sure they are updated and organized, and bring hard copies to the interview. During the Interview: Dress appropriately and maintain eye contact, especially during live interviews. 

Be mindful of your body language and test your communication if it’s a virtual interview. After the interview: Send a thank you email to the interviewer to express gratitude for the opportunity. Be patient during the hiring process, as it may take longer than expected. Follow up politely if you don’t hear back after the specified time.