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Finding the best job for you in Canada
Canada Is the Best Place to Start
In Canada, most adults work outside the home.
Full-time jobs are common. However, a growing number of people
have part-time jobs or temporary contracts. Women make up
a large portion of the work force. Increasingly, they have
important, senior positions.
Canadians often change jobs and careers several times. This
is often a personal choice. Sometimes people must change jobs
because the economy itself changes. Today, there are more
new jobs in service occupations than in manufacturing.
For these and other reasons, getting a job is not easy. Many
people are looking for work. Unemployment in Canada affects
a large number of people -- not just newcomers.
This situation may surprise you, especially if you come from
a country where careers can last a lifetime. However, if you
prepare yourself well and keep trying, you will eventually
find a job.
Looking for a Job
Information about jobs is available from many sources. Newspapers
have classified advertisements that list jobs by occupation.
Stores needing workers often put a sign in the window. People
you meet may know of a business that is hiring. It is important
to ask people and keep aware of opportunities.
The Human Resource Centres (HRCs) of Human Resources Development
Canada offer useful information and services for people seeking
work. These offices operate as labour exchanges. Employers
list jobs at the HRC so unemployed workers can register and
be made aware of available work.
You can often get help finding a job from volunteer or immigrant
service agencies. Some of these are specially designed for
newcomers. In large cities, there are usually associations
of people who share your background and language who can help
you. You can find these associations and agencies listed in
the telephone book.
A good résumé, also known as a curriculum vitae
(CV), is an important tool in your search for a job. A résumé
is a summary of your qualifications and work experience. It
should be clear, concise and contain the following information:
- your name, address and telephone number;
- a history of where you have worked and the type of jobs
you have done; and
- a list of your education and training.
Networking is also important for finding a job. This means
talking to people you know or meet about the kind of job you
are looking for. The people you talk with may tell you about
a job, or about other people with ideas and information. Most
jobs are not advertised and are filled through personal contacts.
HRC offices and non-governmental or volunteer agencies can
help you learn how to prepare a résumé, to network,
and to promote yourself and your abilities.
Remember: looking for a job is itself a full-time job. Do
not become discouraged. Almost everyone who is looking for
work has many failures before they succeed.
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Best place to start
