How important is it to have Canadian Experience?

Many Internationally Trained Professionals face barriers to getting a job because they do not have "Canadian Experience."

This perception may refer to:

• language and communications skills
• knowledge of Canadian standards
• ability to fit into Canadian workplace culture
• doing things the "Canadian way"

Overcome these barriers by gaining Canadian Experience:

• Learn as much as you can about a job you want by asking someone who works in that field
• Every industry in Canada uses special words (called "jargon"). It is a good idea to go to the library and the internet to learn the jargon your industry uses
• Create an English-language résumé
• The best ways to find out about jobs are networking and making cold calls. “Networking” is a word for getting to know people in the industry. A “cold call” is when you go to a company that is not advertising any jobs, to ask if they are hiring
• Look for jobs that are related to the work you know how to do. Once you are working for a company, you will have a better chance to find out about and get the job you really want
• Through volunteering, you will be able to prove your skills to a Canadian employer, learn about the Canadian workplace, gain "Canadian Experience" and build your network
• Before an interview, learn as much as you can about the company and the job. Sell yourself to the employer by telling them stories about what you have done.

For more information and to learn more on how you can find a job in Canada, please contact us at 604-708-9300 or at NortheastESC@mosaicbc.com