If you are a newcomer to Canada and actively searching for jobs, you would have heard the term ‘Canadian Experience’ several times. No matter how impressive your experience in your home country was, you would have to start fresh. Careers in Canada start with networking. As a newcomer to Canada, connecting with people with shared interests will help you understand the market. You will be noticed and gain the required exposure.
Before we move on to how to network, let’s see what networking includes:
As a newcomer to Canada, your focus on networking should be communicating your value to others. You need to understand your strengths and weaknesses. Here are some questions you should list down:
- What are your strengths, your personality, and technical/soft skills?
- How you place yourself different, what are your unique selling points?
- What drives you, what are your goals?
Be prepared for generic questions that reflect your value. “So what brings you here?” this is your cue. Practice and ensure you’re confident in the chosen answer. The self-SWOT analysis goes a long way. Above all, be patient, you are in a new country, adapting to culture takes time.
Here are some ways a newcomer to Canada can network effectively:
Join a professional association
Joining a relevant professional association help you connect with like-minded people. You can meet people from different backgrounds in similar situations. Pin program is one of the best ways to get started. However, you need to research which association closely matches to your past experience and profession.
Diversify
Connect with people from diversified backgrounds, learn more about new surroundings and involve yourself in activities that help you get out. Also, try and learn a new language, bilingual skills in Canada can take you further in career opportunities.
Volunteer
Volunteering can instantly expand your network. Other than its personally rewarding, volunteering can help you engage yourself in local events and community. The more you give, the more you receive. Additionally, volunteering jobs are best way to keep yourself occupied while you are searching for a job.
Set Objectives
Meeting the right people is important. Set objectives to use your time effectively and participate in events you feel will be beneficial. Although the priority is to find a suitable job, it is always good to build a network who can offer you advice and guide you to reach your professional goals. Check sites like meetup.com to explore a variety of events.
College
As a professional, you need to upgrade your skills as per Canadian requirements. There is a number of certificate/ diploma courses you can pursue to have Canadian education on your resume. Career colleges not only help you meet new people but offer career services for you to land a good job and start a rewarding career. Most career colleges offer short-term programs with continuous enrollment and flexible timings to adjust with your work schedule. Additionally you can avail various financial benefit that government offers to newcomers to Canada.
As a newcomer to Canada, you will take time to adjust to working culture, employers’ expectations, and the environment. thus, don’t rush yourself to do something you don’t love. Keep your long-term goals in mind.
BizTech College offers exclusive career services for newcomers to Canada. Apart from short duration programs