Job Search Guide

Canada Job Search Guide for New Immigrants

On this Canadian blog, you will find useful information which is focused on assisting new Canadian immigrants. This specific web page will focus on helping new immigrants find jobs in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

When starting a new life, in a new country, starting your job search can get overwhelming, but by using a planned approach, you can navigate your way to and find the right job you're looking for. I was a new immigrant myself, back in 1998, and what I share on this web page is what I personally and successfully used.

This job search guide will cover topics like: searching and applying for jobs in Canada, helping new immigrants prepare for interviews, top job websites in the Greater Toronto Area, difference between regulated and non-regulated jobs in Canada, getting your professional credentials evaluated, how to use professional online networks to find recruiters and jobs, and many other topics.

Also, in the "Working in Canada" section of this web page, you will find useful resources that will help you research specific details of jobs like the duties, skills, qualifications and certification requirements, salary expectations, job outlook in Canada,and more.

Applying for Job in Canada

One of the ways you can find Jobs in Canada is in the offline world. This includes getting in touch with headhunters and recruiters, by calling or emailing them. Alternatively, you can find jobs online via job boards, company websites, through professional networks like LinkedIn. With the popularity of the internet, over the past decade or so, a big chunk of job postings can be found online. You will also find jobs posted in newspapers, bulletin boards of local communities and of course, career fairs.

My focus, since I immigrated to Canada over 15 years ago, was on online boards. But initially, I got in touch with headhunters at recruitment agencies as well as networked with different individuals. It's a good idea to register, and post your resume, at some of the top online job boards like Workopolis, Monster, Career Builder, and others. Many of Canada's top employers and staffing agencies subscribe to these online job boards and look for suitable candidates who match their job criteria.

To help you in this job search endeavour, I have developed a free online Interview Preparation Guide that will guide you, step-by-step, to look for suitable jobs and prepare your for your interview. This Job Search guide will cover the following topics:

    •   Preparing a Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV);
    •   Writing a Cover Letter;
    •   Searching & Applying for Jobs;
    •   Preparing for interviews;
    •   Answering Interview Questions;
    •   Material to Carry to the Interview;
    •   Dos and Don'ts During the Interview;
    •   What you Should do After the Interview.

Professional Networking Online

One of the most effective ways of finding jobs in Canada is by Networking. As a newcomer to Canada, you should take the time to develop a network of contacts. One way of doing this is by looking for volunteer opportunities, if you are able to volunteer your time, even if it means working part-time.  

LinkedIn is the world's largest professional network on which you will find relevant contacts within your industry. You will also find recruiters who post jobs and are looking for suitable candidates. There are several focused groups which you can join within your job industry. LinkedIn is free to use and you will benefit greatly by opening an account on this professional online network and connecting with the right individuals. The video below will give you an overview of what LinkedIn is about and how to use it effectively:

Records and Documents Required

If you are new to Canada, you will be required to apply for various government documents in order to maintain your permanent residence, work in Canada and validate your professional credentials.

Check the Newcomer's Checklist section which will provide details on how to go about validating your professional credentials. Also, included is a section on what regulated and non-regulated jobs are. Accordingly, you will be required to validate your credentials. During your job search, you may be required to produce educational documents for degrees, diplomas and certifications you hold.

It is a good idea to carry your other employment records like your past performance evaluations, letters of recommendation from previous employers and bosses, certificates of training you've attended and transcripts. Ensure that the above documents are either in English or French, if not, you will have to get them translated.

Download Free Job Search App

Report: Working in Canada

The Working in Canada tool is a very informational website which will provide you key details like the job description, skills, certification, salary, etc. for a specific occupation.

In order to use this resourceful tool click on the banner above and follow the instructions below:

    •   Enter your occupation (for e.g. Teacher, Project Manager, etc.);
    •   Choose the appropriate occupation from the list;
    •   Read the job description to ensure it is the right occupation;
    •   Choose the province and city;
    •   View the report generated.

Watch the video below for instructions on how to use the Working in Canada tool.

Resourceful Job & Career Websites

The websites below will provide you valuable information which will help you in your job search and career. Read the descriptions below to see what each website has to offer and then click on the link to visit the respective website.

Best Employers for New Canadians
This website annually identifies Canada's best places to work. It has been in operation for 10 years and also identifies the best employers for new Canadians.

Search Jobs from Canada's Top Employers
This website allows you to search jobs from Canada's top employers. You enter the job title, location and it lists down various jobs openings that match your search criteria.

WoodGreens Employment FREE Services
WoodGreens provides free employment services youth and adults. They helps with job search activities, one-on-one coaching, practical workshops and other services.

List of Employment Agencies
At this website, you can register and they automatically submit your resume to Canadian employment agencies that match your location and occupation criteria.

Indeed Job Search Website
Indeed.ca is a job search tool that aggregates job searches based on your keywords and filters jobs that match your job search criteria. You can use the Advance Job Search feature to narrow down your search.

Employment Standards
This is a government of Canada website which focuses on Employment Standards in Canada. You will find information about your rights and responsibilities as a Canadian worker.

Minimum Wage Database
This is a government of Canada website. The minimum wage is a basic labour standard that sets the lowest wage rate that an employer can pay to employees who are covered by the legislation.

Hope you found this information helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Wishing you all the best in your job search and career in Canada.