Canadian work experience is something that employers look for on your resume. But how do you gain Canadian work experience when you recently arrived in Canada? How can you overcome this barrier?

Linda Ryan is the National Program Manager with BCCA-Integrating Newcomers, a government funded, Canada-wide, pre-arrival career coaching service for high skilled construction professionals immigrating to Canada (*BCCA-IN).

A career and certified performance coach, she and the BCCA-IN team specialize in helping newcomers plan for, and achieve, employment success, no matter what city or province they are moving to.

When it comes to gaining Canadian work experience, Ryan provides specific advice. Prepare for Canada spoke to Ryan and here’s what she had to say to those who have immigrated to Canada and are in the first weeks of living the no ‘Canadian experience’ reality. For example, you are qualified and have credentials but aren’t getting job interviews or offers because you have out-of-country experience.

So, how do you overcome this employment barrier? When you search for your first job in Canada, consider other ways to get Canadian experience that can lead to full-time employment. Employers who state that you have no Canadian experience may be concerned that they are taking a risk on you.  Hiring managers may worry that without Canadian experience, you may lack knowledge of the Canadian workplace culture, language proficiency, or important skills and training.

 How can you gain Canadian work experience? Ryan offers this solid advice.

Watch Linda Ryan discuss how BCCA-Integrating Newcomers can help you build your Canadian career before you arrive in Canada!

Getting Your Foot in the Door to Get Canadian Work Experience

1. Volunteer for roles that link to your career

Volunteering is one way to overcome the “no Canadian experience” employment barrier. You can improve your chances of finding a job that matches your skills, knowledge, and experience when you volunteer. This is something many immigrants do to get that so-called Canadian experience. By volunteering, newcomers show their interpersonal skills, language skills, and overall professional ability.

As Ryan states, “The trick with volunteering is to be strategic about the not-for-profit organizations and roles related to your career. Invest time looking for roles you are genuinely interested in and that link to your career.”

Volunteering Tips:

• Be prepared to interview for your volunteer role and take it seriously

• Expect to commit to a specific number of hours per week or per year

• Visit sites like govolunteer.ca to search for volunteer roles across Canada.

Ryan also stresses the importance of being honest with yourself about whether you can meet those expectations.

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In addition to gaining Canadian work experience, volunteer work can be a great career development opportunity. Volunteer work can help you enhance your existing skills, learn and develop new skills, and network with professionals in your field. It’s also a great way to stay involved while you conduct your job search.

2. Intern with local companies for a short period

Another route Ryan suggests you consider to gain Canadian work experience is to intern. If you don’t want to go the not-for-profit route, you can look for local companies with roles that match your experience. Also, shortlist companies advertising paid roles (in your area of expertise) and opt for more junior roles where you can easily prove your worth and add value.

Approach the company and offer to intern, unpaid for four to six weeks to test you out. Ryan offers, “I’ve seen it done successfully by newcomers. But, success depends on your comfort doing this and the employer’s appetite to invest the time and energy to support a role trial.”

Tips to Approach Employers:

• Use your peer network (that you’ve built pre- and post-arrival to Canada)

• Pick up the phone and ask to speak to the HR manager (or better still a peer manager)

• Walk into the business and drop off your resume.

Ryan offers, “The more personal and genuine you make the interaction (showing up, dressing well, being open, friendly, and professional) the more of an impression you’ll make.

3. Take a Short Course or Bridging Program

If you can, avoid the cost and time of opting for a master’s degree in your technical field unless you want to do one! Instead look for the most relevant, brief, and inexpensive technical course that will add to your skills or expertise. Ryan often advises newcomers to budget to be out of work for six months after arriving in Canada. There are many reasons why I suggest this timeframe and gathering your ‘Canadian experience’ is one of them.

Tip:

• Once you have arrived in Canada connect with a settlement agency to learn about funding for a bridging program to secure or challenge your Canadian credential.

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Learn More about BCCA-IN

*The BCCA-Integrating Newcomers program is a free, pre-arrival, Canada-wide service, focused on helping high-skilled newcomers explore and build successful construction careers. Services include one-on-one career guidance, tailored resume, cover letter, LinkedIn advice, and an in-depth skills and education assessment to help newcomers focus on the best career, credentials and connections activities. The Integrating Newcomers team not only has multi-industry experience but are also immigrants who have built successful careers in Canada.

Finding the perfect summer job as a newcomer high school student in Canada can be both exciting and daunting. As the school year winds down and the summer approaches, many high school students are eager to gain valuable work experience. These summer jobs offer students a chance to acquire new skills, build friendships, and save for future plans. If you know where to look, Canada has many wonderful opportunities for summer employment that students take advantage of. Let’s dive into some summer job search tips to help you find the perfect summer job.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Summer Job in Canada?

The minimum age for employment in Canada is 14 years old. This means that you can legally be employed the moment you turn 14. However, many businesses set the minimum age to 15 or 16 so it could be tough looking for a traditional summer job at 14. Don’t be discouraged though, because it is common for youth under 15 years to find jobs such as babysitting, dog walking, yard work, and tutoring.

What Are the Advantages of Summer Jobs for Students?

As a student, your first job will likely be in the summer. Summer jobs are great because they allow students to earn money while also having time to enjoy their summer break. Here are some of the advantages of getting a summer job:

Develop Job Skills:

Summer jobs are a great way for students to develop a wide range of professional skills. They provide students with hands-on experience, helping them build practical skills essential for success in the workplace.

Build Your Resume:

Having experience is key in today’s competitive job market. Once you finish school and start looking for a full-time job, a good resume can go a long way in advancing your career. Working a summer job as a student will help you add depth to your resume and show future employers that you can thrive in the work environment. 

Build Your Network:

Building good relationships with colleagues and supervisors during your summer job can open doors to future employment opportunities.

Personal Growth:

Summer jobs often present challenges that encourage personal growth. Whether it’s overcoming obstacles, adapting to new environments, or learning to collaborate as a team, these experiences will contribute to your overall growth and resilience.

Earn Extra Income with Your Summer Student Job:

Summer employment can help you earn income whether you want extra spending money or to save for college or university. The income you earn from your summer job can help you save for your post-secondary education.

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While there are many summer employment opportunities for students, the market can be quite competitive. To be successful in your job search, it is important to be equipped with the best tips and strategies before entering the job market. Here are some tips to help you enter the market head first and land the perfect summer job for you.

2. Explore Your Network and Connections

Do not underestimate the power of networking when searching for a summer job. Talk to your family members, friends, teachers, and neighbours to inquire about potential job openings. Networking can often lead to hidden job opportunities that may not be advertised publicly.

3. Utilize Online Resources

The internet is a valuable tool to find job opportunities. You can use online job boards, social media platforms, and company websites to search for job openings and submit applications. Job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn can help you browse jobs near you.

Canada’s Youth Job Bank is particularly beneficial for students seeking a summer job.

4. Work On Your Resume

When you apply for jobs, it’s important to customize your resume. Likely, you won’t have any work experience, so make sure to mention any volunteer work, clubs, or extracurricular activities you have participated in. These activities demonstrate that you are capable and have a work ethic.

5. Look Out for Seasonal Jobs

Some industries see a surge in demand for workers during the summer months. It is a good idea to apply to places like amusement parks, recreation centres, summer camps, ice cream shops, and restaurants. They often need extra help because more people visit them during the summer.

6. Remain Flexible

When looking for a summer job, it is a good idea to remain flexible. Be open to different kinds of jobs as well as your flexibility when it comes to working hours. Even if you have a certain job or field in mind, being flexible and considering other options can increase your chances of finding a job. 

7. Follow Up and Stay in Touch with Employers

Remember to check back with the employer after you apply for a job or attend an interview. Send a thank-you email or call them to show that you’re still interested in the job and to remind them about your skills. Following up like this demonstrates your professionalism and enthusiasm for the job. Moreover, it can leave a positive impression on employers.

Securing summer employment as a newcomer high school student in Canada requires proactive effort and thoughtful planning. Starting your search early, networking, remaining flexible, and following up with employers are all key factors to maximize your chances of finding the ideal summer job. So roll up your sleeves, follow these tips, and embark on your summer job hunt with full energy and confidence!

Watch Linda Ryan discuss how *BCCA-Integrating Newcomers can help you access jobs faster!

Once you arrive in Canada, you have a decision to make: should I get a “survival job” to earn money or look for a job in my profession. A survival job is not the best first job you can get. But, since they are easy to obtain, survival jobs can be a helpful way to earn money to pay the bills. However, once you get a survival job, do not give up on your job search. The choice you make will greatly affect how you live in Canada for the next few years. This article will help you decide which path you should choose when you arrive in Canada.

We spoke to Linda Ryan, Provincial Manager (Apprenticeship Services) with BCCA. When it comes to survival jobs, Linda Ryan shares her advice:

“My advice is to fasten your proverbial seat belt, hunker down and budget to be out of work for up to six months. Then before you opt for that survival job (a job that pays the bills but doesn’t relate to your career dreams and/or existing education, qualifications and industry experience) take a deep breath and consider all your options and the associated positive and negative consequences of each. Only when you have given yourself the gift of considering all impacts of a decision, should you take action.

Linda Ryan, Provincial Manager (Apprenticeship Services), BCCA

What is a Survival Job?

A survival job can pay the bills. But, it doesn’t relate to your career dreams or professional background. Often, it’s a low-paying job that requires little to no skills. These jobs are easy to obtain and earn you just enough to pay the bills. Generally, survival jobs earn you under $20 per hour.

Survival jobs usually have long and tiring shifts with only one or two days off every week. These jobs also offer very few benefits from the employer such as medical or dental benefits. Although, it’s good to ask the employer if they do provide any benefits.

Some examples of survival jobs include:

• warehouse or factory worker

• cashier

• sales associate

• delivery person, and

• restaurant worker, to name a few.

Disadvantages of Earning Money with Survival Jobs

Getting a survival job is not always the best option after you arrive in Canada. Survival jobs can leave you with little time and energy to continue your job search. At the same time, survival jobs often give you a feeling of self-satisfaction or ease. This is because they don’t require you to do a lot of thinking and the tasks you have to do are generally easy. 

When both of these factors are combined, newcomers often give up on their job search after a few years of doing survival jobs. The longer you keep a survival job, the harder it will become for you to find a job in your profession.

Another big disadvantage of doing survival jobs in the long term is experience. At first, it might sound illogical, but doing a survival job for a long time can hurt your Canadian experience. 

Earning money with a survival job for a short period is good for building Canadian experience. However, when you do such a job for a long time, employers might be hesitant to hire you as you have been doing only a survival job for the past few years. Any experience you might have had in your profession will count as older work experience and may not be taken into consideration.

“As a skilled newcomer to Canada often the biggest shock to your career trajectory is realizing that it takes time to secure work in your field of expertise.”

Linda Ryan, Provincial Manager (Apprenticeship Services), BCCA

How Much Income Will You Earn?

Then, of course, there is the matter of income. Survival jobs earn you an annual income of around $30,000 to $50,000. Depending on where you live in Canada, this income probably won’t be enough to save up for a down payment and buy a house.

In cities like Toronto or Vancouver, this salary will barely even pay the rent. Overall, a survival job allows you to earn income to help you get by until you find a job in your field. It is not meant as a permanent job and you should never think of it as your permanent job.

Many survival jobs are found in the service sector such as restaurants or tourist attractions. As Ryan explained, based on the experience of her clients: “survival jobs pay lower and create a negative cycle of ‘no time and no energy’. This is because you have to work longer hours to earn enough money, or you can’t take time off to attend interviews for your dream job. As a result, you have little energy to go home after a shift and invest in your career, pastimes, or family. This negative cycle leaves newcomers asking what did I come to Canada for?”

Another client of Ryan’s stated: “survival jobs can be more of a hindrance than a help for your career because they cannibalize the energy you have for networking, job hunting, professional development and interviewing.”

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Advantages of Earning Money with Survival Jobs

Since they are easier to obtain than regular jobs, survival jobs are usually the first job newcomers get in Canada. Canada is an expensive country that is hard to live in for a long time without earning stable money. A survival job will earn you just enough money to get by and maybe acquire some savings if you spend carefully. 

Looking at the disadvantages of survival jobs, it is obvious that they may hurt your chances of getting a job in your profession. However, survival jobs are important in some situations.

When you arrive in Canada it’s wise to have up to six months of savings while you conduct your job search. If you don’t have enough savings to last you a few months, it will be hard to continue your job search without earning additional money. In this scenario, it’s helpful to get a survival job as soon as you arrive in Canada to earn money.

If you have enough savings to last you a few months, you should look for a job in your profession without any distractions.  If you still cannot find a preferred job after that time, and your savings are running out, it’s time to find a survival job. As the name suggests, survival jobs are there just so you can pay the bills, nothing more.

Should You Get a Survival Job to Earn Money?

The answer to that question varies depending on your situation. Not everyone is in the same financial situation when they arrive in Canada. Whether or not you should get a survival job depends on how much savings you have, and the job outlook for your profession.

If possible, try to find a job that is related to your field. This way, when you apply for a job in your profession, you will already have some Canadian experience.

If you do have some savings, plan how long you can live on your savings. In that time, do everything in your ability to search for your preferred job. This can include:

• networking (letting people know you are looking for a job)

• visiting online job boards, and

• contacting employment agencies.

At the end of this time, if you still can’t find a good job, it’s time for a survival job to earn money.

It’s vital to research how your profession works in Canada before you arrive. Many newcomers come to Canada thinking they will find a job in their profession easily. This isn’t always the case. Getting a job in Canada is easy if you conduct your job search the right way. This is why it is really important to research your profession before you arrive and start networking with people in your profession.

What Kind of Survival Jobs Should I Look For?

Most people will probably look for the highest-paying survival job they can find. This may not be the best approach. It is always best to find a survival job that is related to your profession in some way. 

If you have a specific organization or company you want to work for, try to get a job there. For example, if you’re a teacher, you could try to get a job as a lunch supervisor or an assistant teacher. That way, when you apply for a teaching job, you will already have some Canadian experience that can help you land the job.

If you cannot find a job that is directly related to your profession, you can try to look for survival jobs that share some of the same skills with your profession. A good example would be teachers who could tutor part-time or even full-time to show future employers you can teach to Canadian standards.

When you search for survival jobs with this approach, your chances of landing a good job will be greater. 

How Can I Find a Survival Job in Canada?

Finding a survival job in Canada is fairly easy if you know where to look. Below are some resources and techniques you can use to find a survival job in Canada.

Networking

Networking is the number one way of getting any kind of job in Canada. Simply put, networking is building relationships that will help you with your career. Effective networking happens by building two-way relationships. You have to show your value and prove that you have the required skills and experience to do the job. Your network can include your friends and relatives as well as people you meet during your job search.

Just showing your resumé to the HR department of the organization will not be enough. Words are much more effective and convincing than any cover letter or resumé. When you talk to someone who can help you get a job, tell them about your capabilities and skills. When that person hears about a job opening, make sure they remember you. If you left a good impression on them, they might even recommend you for the job.

Employment Agencies

Another great way to find jobs is through employment agencies. These agencies are hired by companies to find capable and experienced workers. It would be a good idea to look up some of the best employment agencies in your area and approach them. According to the Association of Canadian Search, Employment & Staffing Services, over two million workers are hired through employment agencies every year!

Online Job Boards

Online job boards are the most common way to find jobs. Websites such as Indeed and LinkedIn are great online job boards to find jobs. LinkedIn can also be used for networking. Employers use online job boards to advertise available jobs. If you see a job that interests you, you can apply directly to the employer through the job board.

Read: Canada Job Bank: Your Vital Research Tool

In summary, a survival job is not the best first job you can get. But, since they are easy to obtain, survival jobs can be a helpful way of earning money to pay the bills. Once you get a survival job, however, do not give up on your job search. Ryan offers this final advice:

“As a newcomer looking for your first role in Canada, remember that the sooner you make it look like you have ‘Canadian experience’ (i.e. through career-relevant credentials, memberships of local professional associations, building your network, taking more junior roles that will lead to your dream job), the sooner you’ll be considered equal to Canadian educated and experienced job candidates. This will allow you to get your foot in the career door faster! And once you’re in, your career is already building momentum to be back on track!

Learn More about BCCA-IN

*The BCCA-Integrating Newcomers program is a free, pre-arrival, Canada-wide service, focused on helping high-skilled newcomers explore and build successful construction careers. Services include one-on-one career guidance, tailored resume, cover letter, LinkedIn advice, and an in-depth skills and education assessment to help newcomers focus on the best career, credentials and connections activities. The Integrating Newcomers team not only has multi-industry experience but are also immigrants who have built successful careers in Canada.

When arriving in a new country, newcomers face many changes and challenges, and some of the most important relate to employment. While it’s vital to learn how to navigate the economic, social, and cultural landscapes, understanding Canadian employment law is essential. A basic understanding of employment law can ensure fair treatment, protection of rights, good negotiations, and adequate labour conditions. This guide introduces you to employment contracts, employment standards, wages, termination, and employee rights and protections. The article will equip you with the necessary knowledge to perform successfully in Canadian workplaces, ensure fair treatment, and protect your rights.

Canadian Employment Contracts

In Canada, as in other countries, employment contracts are the basis of employment relationships. These legally binding documents define employees’ and employers’ respective rights and obligations. Canadian employment law allows either written or verbal contracts. When there’s no written employment agreement, the terms of employment are implied based on common law and statute. However, a written agreement is often recommended because it provides specifics of employment terms. It may also include termination rights above those the employee would be entitled to under common law and statute. Enforcing an employment contract can depend on whether the employee was aware of and properly understood the key terms of the contract at the time of signing the agreement.

A written contract specifies crucial details such as job responsibilities, working hours, compensation, benefits, and termination conditions. Always read an employment contract carefully before signing it. It is important that you fully understand your rights and obligations under the agreement. Seek legal help if you need it. In Canada, there are for types of employment contracts:

1. Permanent or Indefinite Employment Contract:

This is the most common type of employment contract. It regulates labour relationships within companies. It can be a part- or full-time contract. The termination date is not fixed, so the employment relationship continues until the employer or the employee terminates it.

2. Fixed-Term Employment Contract:

This type of contract provides for a fixed termination date. The employment relationship ends on this date, without the need for either the employer or the employee to end the contract. A fixed-term employment contract may provide for renewal clauses.

3. Independent Contractor Agreement:

This type of contract is between an independent contractor and a client for consulting or other services. It can be a short-term or long-term agreement.

4. Collective Bargaining Agreement:

If employees are part of a labour union, the union and the employer negotiate the contract. Union contracts generally include terms related to working conditions, wages, grievance procedures, etc. The terms of these contracts are negotiated using collective bargaining agreements.

Employment Standards

Employment Standards are those laws and regulations that govern labour relationships. They outline employment-related matters, such as hours of work, wages, overtime pay, leave, and termination. The most important standards are the provincial Employment Standard Acts, which outline employment conditions at a local level. Each province and territory has its own set of rules, so it is important to become familiar with the specific laws applicable to your jurisdiction. If you are part of a labour union, it is also important to know about federal regulations such as the Canada Labour Code.

If you want more information about employment standards in Canada, you can search the following sources:

Federal labour standards

 Government of Canada – Labour Program
 Canada Labour Code

Employment Standards Province or Territory

Alberta Employment Standards

British Columbia Employment Standards

Ontario Employment Standards

Employment Law Related to Wages and Compensation

In Canada, the provincial minimum wage varies. However, federal regulations concerning wages and compensation are enforced throughout the country. Employees in federally regulated businesses or industries have several protections regarding pay entitlements.

According to federal labour standards, employees of federally regulated employers are entitled to at least the minimum wage. If the province’s minimum wage is higher than the federal minimum, then employers must pay based on the province’s wage. Minimum wage rates are subject to change, and they may vary depending on the activity performed and the population. For this reason, it is important to review which is the current wage when calculating the costs of work. In
Ontario, the minimum hourly rate was recently updated.

Laws requiring equal pay for equal work apply in various provinces, regardless of gender or other factors. If you believe you are not being paid fairly, you can contact your provincial or territorial employment standards office for assistance. If you’re a newcomer, it’s important to know the minimum wage in your area and ensure that your employer is paying you fairly.

Moreover, ensure you understand how your employer calculates your wages and pays you. Keep a record of the hours you work to monitor your earnings accurately.

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Employment Law | Termination and Notice

The Employment Standards Act (ESA) in each province outlines the terms and conditions for terminating employment contracts. These standards specify the conditions when employment is terminated. For instance, in Ontario, it occurs if the employee is:

• Dismissed or no longer employed

• “Constructively dismissed,” or there is a “temporary layoff”.

These standards also outline the conditions where an employer must provide the employee with a notice of termination, termination pay, or a combination of both. Those conditions vary depending on the province. In Ontario, the ESA establishes that employees do not have to provide notice to their employer if they choose to resign. However, employers must provide reasonable notice or pay in lieu of notice when terminating an employee, unless certain exceptions apply. The length of notice or pay depends on various factors, such as the duration of employment, the position held, and the terms of the employment contract. It is important to understand your rights in case of termination and seek legal advice if you believe you have been unjustly dismissed.

Employment Law and Employee Termination in Ontario

In Ontario, employers must provide you with written notice of termination and adhere to specific rules in particular situations. For example, if you work for an employer for more than three months, under the ESA, an employer can end your employment. However, an employer can only do this if they provide written notice, at the end of the notice period. Nonetheless, an employer may terminate employment without written notice or by providing a notice period of
lesser duration than mandated if they remit termination pay.

If the employer fails to comply with the provincial ESA, they must give the employee termination pay instead of notice. Familiarity with the relevant ESA gives employers the required knowledge to navigate the employment termination process. Simultaneously, it empowers employees to ascertain the prerequisites that must be met in such situations and to understand the right course of action if compliance with provincial rules is not observed.

Canadian Employment Law | Employee Rights and Protections

Federal and provincial laws are in place to ensure your rights and legal protections in the workplace. These Canadian employment laws outline workers’ rights, responsibilities, and legal protections. They also ensure gender equality, safe labour conditions, and fair employment practices.

Federal labour standards set out minimum requirements of employment, such as working hours, overtime pay, minimum wage, and termination notice.

Employers must provide safe and healthy workplaces. Workers can refuse to work in unsafe workplaces without any
reprisal. Federal and provincial laws protect employees from discrimination and harassment based on:

• Race

• Religion

• Gender

• Disability, and other characteristics.

Privacy laws protect workers’ privacy in the workplace. Workers have unemployment insurance. Unions have the right to collective bargaining to negotiate employment contracts. There are parental and maternal leaves. Workers can safely report wrongdoing in their workplaces: the law protects them from retaliations.

Conclusion

Understanding Canadian employment law and labour law is vital for newcomers. By learning about employment contracts, standards, wages, termination procedures, and employee rights, newcomers confidently join the Canadian workforce. The right information will ensure you know your rights and receive fair treatment in the workplace. Seek legal advice from an employment lawyer if you have any questions or legal issues.

Sources

Government of Canada:

Federal Labour Standards

Canada Labour Code

Employment Insurance Benefits and Leave

Maternity and Parental Benefits

Whistleblower Protection

Termination, layoff or dismissal

Canadian Human Rights Commission

Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada

The Canada Job Bank is a vital tool to research your profession or trade in Canada. This Government of Canada resource allows you to search for jobs in your field and apply for them online. Canada Job Bank is a great tool for newcomers before and after arrival. Researching your profession before you arrive will help you understand job requirements so you can continue your career. Canada Job Bank will help you do just that. It provides detailed information for each career in Canada to help you develop your job search approach.

Canada Job Bank can provide insightful information about your career in Canada based on your:

• Profession

• Skillset

• Education, and

• Experience.

With this in mind, let’s discover how to use Canada Job Bank and kickstart your dream career in Canada!

Researching Your Profession is a Vital First Step

Moving to a new country is a major life decision. While it can be a thrilling and exciting experience, you may also feel uncertain. You may be thinking:

• Will I find a job in my field in Canada?

• Will I make a good living?

• What locations are best for my profession?

These are important questions to consider before you move to Canada. The answer to these questions for your field will help make your transition into Canada’s workforce easier. By researching, you can determine how and where to continue your career successfully.

Because the labour market in Canada varies, you need to know how your job skills align with the labour market needs. For example, locating in the Atlantic region of Canada when you have experience in the oil and gas sector wouldn’t be wise. Instead, you would want to consider Alberta where there is a strong oil and gas sector. Ideally, you want to identify the provinces and cities with a demand for your profession, skills, and experience.

Fortunately, the Canada Job Bank can provide the information you need to make important career decisions.

What is the Canada Job Bank?

The Job Bank is a useful tool to conduct research related to your profession or trade in Canada and apply for jobs for which you are qualified. This portal provides vital labour market information that allows you to: 

• Research market trends for occupations, wages, and job prospects

• Learn about different occupations using the National Occupational Classification (NOC) code

• Access career planning tools

• Browse jobs in Canada 

• Identify what skills and experience Canadian employers want.

• Directly apply to jobs by submitting your resume

• Get a better understanding of industries and the entire labour market.

Canada Job Bank is a free resource the Government of Canada manages in partnership with provinces and territories. You’ll discover that both the website and mobile app are simple to use, convenient, and provide information that you can trust. Canada Job Bank can help you find jobs in your field and plan your career using its thorough research tool. As someone looking to continue their professional journey in Canada, Canada Job Bank is the perfect place to start.

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Understanding Trends in Your Profession

The trend analysis section of the Canada job bank is filled with useful information about job prospects all across Canada. You can also find a 10-year analysis for your occupation. So if you’re researching the Canadian job market, this is a helpful resource to learn about your occupation. With this information, you can:

• Identify the job prospects for your industry (good, fair, limited, undetermined)

• Assess how your occupation is performing throughout Canada

• Identify growth at the provincial and community (city) level

• Compare how much you can make in different parts of Canada

• Find labour market news in your industry

• Obtain other statistics regarding your profession and the general labour market.

Questions to Consider:

When researching the trends, consider these questions:

• Is the outlook strong for my occupation?

• What changes are happening that will impact my career decisions?

• Are there growth areas?

• Which provinces have the greatest job prospects?

• What cities have the greatest job prospects?

• Considering the trends, what skills, knowledge and experience are in high demand?

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Using Canada Job Bank Wage Information

Another useful section of the Canada Job Bank is the information you can find about wages. You can find the average wages per hour for your occupation including the following:

• The national median wage 

• Provincial wages per hour, ranging from low, median, and high 

• Community/area wages (i.e. city level).

This information can help you identify what you can expect to earn in Canada. For example, some sectors such as technology generate strong incomes. It’s a high-wage sector that also attracts highly skilled immigrants. However, when considering average wages it’s also important to consider the cost of living and housing affordability versus salaries.

For example, British Columbia has a strong technology sector. And while technology wages are high, so is the cost of living and housing in Vancouver, BC. So when choosing a city to locate it’s helpful to consider the cost of living versus average wages.

You may want to explore job prospects in a small or medium-sized city. While the average wages may be lower, you’ll likely discover it’s more affordable than a larger city such as Vancouver or Toronto.  Rentals for Newcomers is a practical and easy-to-navigate site to help you find housing and make an easier transition to life in Canada! And you can even determine the average cost of renting in each city. This is helpful since rental prices change often.

Questions to Consider

• How do wages compare across Canada for my occupation? 

• What are the job prospects?

• Can I earn a salary that meets the cost of living in the city or region I want to locate?

Answering these questions can help you decide how you want to move forward. Many newcomers decide to get extra certifications or take a new course. This will help you transition better into the Canadian labour market. And if you strategically get the correct certifications, you will ultimately get paid more as well.

By understanding the trends in your profession and accounting for wages, you can make an informed decision about your next step.

Using the Job Search Tool

With more than 80,000 jobs listed on the job bank, you can browse jobs based on: 

• Job title 

• Job category (management, finance, health, sales and service, and more)

• Location (province and city)

• In-demand jobs 

• Employment groups including newcomers to Canada.

The Canada job bank search tool is helpful if you are in Canada and ready to work. This is because employers want to fill job vacancies as quickly as possible.

Can I Apply for Canada Job Bank Jobs Before I Arrive?

If you are still in your home country, you can apply for Canada Job Bank jobs before you arrive. The Job Bank services and tools are available to help job seekers find employment opportunities Canada-wide, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. However, some jobs require Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, or a work permit visa. You must carefully review the job description to ensure you meet the immigration requirements before you apply.

In any case, the job bank search tool can give you an idea of the types of jobs available, job duties, and requirements including:   

• Language 

• Education (University, College, job-specific training)

• Experience

• Personal suitability (interpersonal skills, communication skills, etc.).

This information can help you assess if you have the skills employers require.

You can also browse job boards and read the job postings for your profession. Note the types of skills and experience that Canadian employers seek. Assess whether or not you possess similar skills and experience. If you have any skills gaps, make a plan to close or narrow the gap if possible.

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Questions to Consider When Using the Job Bank Search Tool

• Do I have the skills and experience that Canadian employers are seeking?

• What skill gaps do I have? How can I close the gaps? (i.e.; more training, licensing, etc)

Researching the Canadian job market is essential to ensuring a strong job market for your profession, skillset, education, and experience. A good place to start is with the Canada Job Bank to research your profession and apply for jobs where you meet the requirements.

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With help from a mentor, you’ll become familiar with work-related culture, questions, and issues that may be quite different in your home country. And, while you could likely complete these activities on your own, a mentor can help you to quickly get started. And with a quick start, you can:

• Discuss your job search goals

• Learn about the hiring process in Canada

• Build confidence for job interviews

• Discuss job search strategies and problem-solve together

• Secure a job more quickly with the help of a mentor.

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Self-awareness is Key to Your Job Search 

Roles and Qualities of Mentors and Mentees: 

Mentoring can be an effective and rewarding relationship when both the mentor and mentee understand their roles. To achieve an effective outcome, here are some of the roles and qualities of mentors and mentees.

What are the Skills & Qualities of a Good Mentor? 

A good mentor:

Is positive and enthusiastic:

A good mentor is someone who is excited to help you achieve professional success in Canada. They’ll maintain a positive outlook about your existing skills, knowledge, talent, and experience and appreciate what you have to offer.

Values learning and helping others: 

A good mentor is someone who has experience and knowledge that they want to share with you. A mentor doesn’t have to be an expert. Rather they should be able to help you access resources to find the answers to your important questions. In fact, you’ll likely be able to share your knowledge with a mentor as well.

Recognizes your strengths: 

You have many strengths, skills, and knowledge that you bring to your profession in Canada. A good mentor will encourage you and believe in your ability to continue and excel in your career in Canada. 

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Provides feedback: 

Providing feedback is an important skill for a mentor. And, providing feedback in a genuine, empathic, and constructive manner can help you to learn, grow, and develop your skills. A good mentor will provide feedback that is specific, honest, and clear. A good mentor will provide feedback to help you with your job search or provide career guidance if you have already landed a job in Canada.

Is understanding:

Often, newcomers are frustrated when it takes longer than expected to find a job in their professional field or trade. If you belong to a regulated profession, it can take time to complete the licensing requirements, and it can also be expensive. A good mentor will understand your frustration while encouraging you to keep moving forward despite the obstacles. A good mentor will recognize your career challenges and empower you to achieve your goals.

Has great listening skills: 

A good mentor will listen to you carefully. You may have concerns and issues about your job search and career development in Canada. However, you also have your own ideas about how to overcome obstacles. A good mentor will listen to your concerns so you can jointly create options.

What are the Qualities of a Good Mentee?

To ensure a successful mentoring relationship, a great mentee:

Has a professional goal:

With a clear goal in mind, your mentor will be able to help you reach your career goal.

Is open and honest:

To reach meaningful outcomes, it’s important to be open and honest with your mentor. So it’s helpful to share your professional goals, issues, and concerns. When you can openly discuss issues and obstacles, together you can create options and a solid plan of action to jump those career hurdles.

 Is committed to the relationship:

Mentors are usually volunteering for a professional association or community-based group. So it’s important to respect their time and effort. For example, it’s helpful when mentees:

• prepare for and are punctual for the meeting, and
• follow through on commitments after the meeting.

 Respects boundaries:

A mentor’s role is to provide you with professional guidance. So it’s best to focus on professional and career-related topics. Also, it’s important to respect their time. For example, you may want to set how and when you can contact your mentor to avoid any misunderstandings.

As well, it’s helpful to set the length of your mentoring relationship. Mentoring relationships can be anywhere from 4 – 12 months depending on the organization.

Is receptive and open to feedback

While a mentor must be able to skillfully provide feedback. it’s equally important that the mentee is open and receptive to feedback. When delivered in a constructive manner, feedback is a gift that can help you to grow both personally and professionally.

The Fundamentals of Mentoring Success

There are key elements that contribute to a successful relationship. Here are some factors to consider to ensure success:

The Mentor & Mentee Match is Compatible:

A successful partnership is based on a great match between the mentor and the mentee. When you connect easily and have a genuine interest in each other, you’ll work together well. The partnership can be formal or informal.

There are Clear Expectations:

Realistic expectations and goals will guide the mentoring partnership in the right direction. A mentor is not there to tell the mentee what to do, but rather to help them along. Mentorship involves more than just devoting a set time period, it requires buy-in and commitment from both sides.

 It’s a Two-Way Street:

A strong partnership will flow both ways. Mentees should expect to contribute to the relationship in a meaningful way. In other words, don’t just expect professional advice without giving back. For example, you can share a book title or article that you think your mentor may be interested in. Sharing and exchanging ideas can show that you appreciate their effort and that you are interested in their growth as well. You’ll also have the added advantage of cultivating a great relationship!

Mentorship Goals:

Defining the goals of the mentorship relationship is the key to a successful partnership. Each partner should be accountable for success. Setting goals early in the process can help you achieve concrete outcomes together. A goal can be as simple as: “I’d like to become more confident in job interviews.”

Or, a goal can be to develop a specific skill that would help you to achieve a career goal.

How to Find a Mentor in Canada

In Canada, there are many services such as the Edmonton Region Immigrant Employment Council (ERIEC) that provide job search help and mentoring programs. For more service providers, check this Government of Canada site.

As well, many professional associations provide mentoring programs specific to your career field.

To learn more about associations related to your profession in Canada, check out our Career Pathways articles for more than 20 occupations in Canada. For each occupation, you’ll discover associations and immigrant networks that can help you to find a mentor in Canada.

A successful mentoring relationship can make a big difference in your career life in Canada. And with a strong commitment, you’ll develop and build essential skills, become more confident, and achieve career success. In time. your success may even encourage you to become a mentor to help future newcomers thrive!

Self-awareness is the key to unlocking a world of job opportunities and leading you to personal and professional excellence. With an increased understanding of your strengths, areas to improve, and values, you can make well-informed career decisions, navigate challenges, and enhance your self-confidence. Self-awareness can also boost your job search and career success. With self-awareness, you’ll have the confidence you need to influence and persuade employers that you’re the right fit for the job. Also, when you have a clear understanding of your personality, it can help you to define what type of work you find most satisfying.

Self-awareness can also provide you with a clear sense of:

• Who you are

• What skills you can bring to the job

• What type of work do you value, and

• Aspects of work that motivate you.

This information is essential to showcase your capabilities and strengths on your resume and in job interviews. As well, when you know your strengths, you can use this information to your advantage to prepare for your job search.

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The best way to approach a job interview in Canada is to know as much as you can about yourself and your work style. 

When you complete the free Drake P3 personality assessment, you’ll receive a profile report that measures five fundamental behavioral dimensions:

• Dominance

• Extroversion

• Patience

• Conformity

• Conscientiousness

With an understanding of these building blocks of your personality, you’ll identify what contributes to your job fit and career success.

What is Job Fit?

Job fit is a measure of what your likes and dislikes in a job and work environment. For example, if you think about a job you held in the past where you were extremely satisfied, you likely had a good job fit. That means that there was a high match between your job likes and the degree to which those elements were present in the job.

With self-awareness, you can identify your preferences, and you can search for jobs that provide those elements. For example, you may prefer jobs that provide a high degree of flexibility and freedom versus jobs that are highly structured. And when there is a great fit, you’ll achieve greater career satisfaction and success!

Job fit is also important to employers. Employers know that when the job fit is high, you will stay with their company and contribute to its success. It’s a win-win situation for you and the employer!

Canadian Employers Evaluate Four Areas

You may have the right skills, knowledge, education, and experience that the job requires, but lack job fit. With the absence of a job fit, employers will be concerned that you will not enjoy the job and you will leave. This can be costly for employers, so that’s why they focus on evaluating job candidates in four key areas: 

1. Knowledge

2. Competencies

3. Experience, and 

4. Job fit (personal attributes and motivators).

Self-Awareness: A Critical First Step

When you truly understand your personality and key strengths, you set yourself up for personal and career success. You may have completed a personality assessment in the past. If you have, it’s helpful to pull out your report and review it. Again, this is helpful information to have when you are: 

• Writing your resume 

• Preparing a cover letter, or

• Getting ready for an important job interview.

If you have not completed a personality assessment, you can complete the Drake P3 Assessment® right now! 

Your results from the Drake P3 Assessment® will allow you to know and understand your personality and how you approach your work and colleagues. This is an important first step to achieving career success in Canada.

The assessment process is simple, and you can complete it online in less than 15 minutes. 

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How Self-Awareness Can Help You in Your Job Search

There are many benefits to having a better understanding of your strengths, and here’s how it can help with your job search efforts:

1. Self-awareness will help you to identify jobs that are a good fit for you.

Some jobs naturally appeal to each of us. And when you truly know yourself, you’ll understand what makes some jobs more attractive than other jobs to you. For example, if you are introverted, you may be more attracted to roles that require less personal interaction. On the other hand, if you identify as extroverted, you’ll likely excel in a job role that requires more interaction with customers, vendors, and other employees.

When you know yourself and your attributes, it can help you to identify roles that will allow you to achieve success. However, you’ll still need to evaluate the role and the company to determine if both are right for you. Each role and company will be unique.

2. Self-awareness will improve your performance in job interviews.

When you know your strengths, you’ll show confidence when responding to questions that speak to job fit. Job fit refers to how well-suited someone is for the position. This is an important aspect that recruiters evaluate because it can reduce costly turnover if someone isn’t suitable for the job. To assess fit, an interviewer may ask: Describe a job you most enjoyed and what you liked about the job.

With self-awareness and a clear understanding of your strengths, you can share elements of the job that aligned with your strengths. For example, someone applying for a sales and marketing role can convey how their strong communication and leadership attributes allowed them to build trusting relationships with clients that led to achieving sales targets. And if these attributes are key components of the job, an interviewer will have greater confidence in their ability and fit for the role. 

3. Self-awareness will help you to develop more quickly on the job.

With self-awareness of your strengths and motivators, you can focus on your strengths to accelerate your career development. Self-awareness is less about fixing flaws, rather it’s about knowing and playing to your strengths. However, if you have a weakness in an area that is critical to the job role, this will likely lead to job dissatisfaction and lower performance. Again, understanding your strengths will allow you to do your best work with confidence and authenticity.

Increasing Your Self-Awareness

When you complete a personality assessment, you’ll understand your dominant personality strengths and be able to harness them to achieve job search and career success in Canada. It’s an essential first step to unleashing a world of opportunity in both your professional and personal growth and development.

For more information, tools, and resources related to finding a job in Canada visit our resource page today! 

Small businesses are a vital part of Canada’s economy. In fact, small businesses (with less than 100 employees) make up close to 98% of employer businesses in Canada. And, for many newcomers starting a small business in Canada can be a rewarding experience. However, it’s essential to understand what’s required to ensure your success. Check out these eight steps to know and do if you’re interested in starting a business! From understanding your market to small business financing, you’ll discover helpful information and resources to move you in the right direction.

Step One: Conduct Market Research

A small business usually starts with a simple idea. Maybe you have a new product idea or invention. Or maybe you want to distribute products from your homeland to the Canadian market (or vice-versa). You may want to purchase an existing running business or franchise. Or maybe you have a specialty service to market as a self-employed person or a small boutique firm (i.e. web designer).

But, before you venture further, you need to better understand the market or need for your product or services, particularly in the Canadian context. Ask yourself if there is a need in your community. What is your target market? Is there a demand for the product or service? While there are many reasons why small businesses fail in Canada, a common reason is a failure to conduct market research.

You have to do plenty of market research (see Industry Canada, a great resource for this), plus look at your local market and competitors. For example, if you’re planning to open a sushi restaurant in a specific city or neighbourhood, find out who your competitors will be, including sushi and other restaurants.

Choosing a Legal Entity Option for Your Small Business

Starting a small business is one thing, but how will you structure it? There are many things to consider related to how you form your business and its legal structure. There are pros and cons with different types of legal entities, which include:

• Sole proprietorship (the simplest form as you don’t create a separate legal entity for it) but it also means you are personally responsible so creditors can go after your personal assets)

• Partnership (if you will have one or more partners)

• Corporation (the business is a separate legal entity from you and your personal assets)

You must also decide on and register a business name. You will require proof of registration to open a bank account, for example, for the company.

Step Two: Create a Business Plan

Once you have a clear understanding of the market, and feel your business meets a need, the second step is to write a business plan. A business plan is an essential document for launching a small business in Canada. Do you understand Canadian business plan standards? Find help in writing a plan with a professional consultant or these online resources:

BDC

Small Business BC.

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Step Three: Explore Small Business Financing

Most small businesses take time to start earning a profit. Do you have financing in place to not only start your business but keep it afloat?

Financing is one of the biggest challenges for start-up businesses, particularly if you are a newcomer with a limited amount of credit history in Canada. Various options for financing your business include:

• Your own savings/cash can help you kickstart your business.

• Personal loans from family/friends may be your next step, but be careful about your relationships by not abusing your family/friends’ generosity.

• Your own credit card or line of credit may be easy to access but can come with steep interest rates.

• Bank business loans may be more challenging to get, and you’ll have to show the institution documents like your business plan.

• Business microloans or peer lending available from certain banks are smaller loan amounts to help small projects.

• There is also funding or loans through organizations like the Business Development Bank of Canada, aimed to help the growth of the small business sector in Canada.

• Government grants and financing through the Canada Small Business Financing Program may also be accessible to you.

• Venture capitalists, angel investors, or other private investors may be your next option, especially if you’re looking for larger investment amounts. There are several venture capital firms you can approach or find a private investor through networking. But investors not only want to assess your business documents like business plans, but they also want a defined plan for a return on their investment. They may also want to get involved in operations.

Step Four: Create a Sales and Marketing Strategy for Your Small Business

Do you know how to effectively market your business in today’s social media-savvy climate? Do you have a social media strategy? 

For many small businesses, especially for mom & pop stores, small restaurants, and boutiques, profit margins can be pretty tight. Your next goal is to grow your business by increasing your efficiencies and maximizing your profits.

What’s Coming In?

Increasing your sales is critical to growing your profit. The first part of increasing your sales is having a product or service that meets a consumer’s need at an appropriate price point. The second part is to create a sales and marketing strategy to get the word out!

What’s Going Out?

Are the costs of running your business too high? Look at ways of cutting your overhead. Assess your suppliers and look for competitive pricing.

Labour, of course, is one of the biggest expenses you’ll have, so it’s important to hire well and retain quality staff by creating a positive workplace environment that keeps your employees in your corner.

Be a Socially Responsible Business

A socially responsible business is all about combining economic and financial goals with social, environmental, and/or humanitarian goals. It’s about companies who know that “doing good” is good for business.

Here are some examples of how small businesses can be socially responsible:

• Encourage diversity through specific hiring and cross-cultural communication programs.

• Create a sustainability or environmental program to reduce your business’s carbon footprint.

• Create incentives for community giving or volunteering for your staff.

• Donate proceeds or services toward humanitarian and social causes.

Step Five: Hire and Retain Staff

Hiring and retaining staff can be one of the most costly, frustrating parts of owning a small business. But hiring your first employee or adding new members to the team can help to transform your business. When recruiting and hiring new employees in Canada, a key priority will be to hire the right person with the right skills and experience for the job.

Step Six: Maintain Your Small Business Records

From accounting to paying taxes, a successful business is organized and maintains its records. Keeping track of your finances with proper accounting and bookkeeping is critical for successful small businesses.

Proper bookkeeping can help you keep track of expenses and cash flow, and measure your bottom line.

Not all owners have the skill, expertise, or time to manage all these financial details on their own, however. Hiring a financial professional – be it as an employee or a freelance consultant can ease this burden for many owners. And while you may worry about the expense of such services, a professional can actually save you money by showing you how to better manage your money, save on taxes, and more.

There are different types of professionals you can hire such as:

• Bookkeepers, who may or may not be certified, can offer basic accounting and recording services.

• Professional accountants will have more training and expertise to analyze data, handle your taxes, and more.

• Financial officers, such as a Chief Financial Officer or controller hired as an employee, who can provide the best accounting services, plus become an integral part of your management team.

If you’re starting your business out on a small scale, you can at least rely on popular software like Quickbooks to help you manage your finances.

Don’t Forget about Taxes and Regulations When Starting a Small Business

The Canadian economy is driven by the small business sector. Even though many small businesses have just one owner and a handful of employees, there are many taxes and regulations the business must still contend with.

There are basic tax requirements such as Goods and Services Tax (GST) and/or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST or provincial sales tax) that you must comply with.

Then there are numerous permits, licences, and regulations related to your employees such as minimum wage, maximum work shifts, vacation pay, and more.

If you’re new to the country, it is worth the investment to have a qualified tax professional and/or lawyer in your corner to help you navigate the rules and regulations when starting a small business.

Step Seven: Invest in the Right Technology When Starting a Small Business

Using the right technology, from back-end software to a great web presence, will help you succeed in your business. 

No business today can operate without the proper technology, so it’s important to invest in this aspect of your business, to keep both the back end (i.e. accounting software, servers) and front end (i.e. cash registers) working smoothly.

In addition to your basic computer hardware and software needs, here are several additional technologies to consider:

• Secure backup servers or cloud services to preserve your data

• E-commerce capabilities and a simple content management system so you can update your website by yourself

• Social media presence such as a company Facebook, Twitter, and other accounts

• Customer relationship management (CRM) software to manage sales and networking contacts.

Step Eight: Develop Your Professional Skills to Help Your Small Business Excel

Do you have the professional and leadership skills to keep your business running? It’s a question few business owners ask themselves. Finding a mentor can help. Learn more about mentoring in Canada.

With small business as a key driver of the economy in Canada, newcomers often find starting a small business is a rewarding opportunity. With support and a strong understanding of these eight steps you can be well on your way to achieving your small business dream.

For information, tools, free webinars, and more visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals in Canada!

The business casual dress code is a recent concept. Not so long ago, it used to be true that everyone who went for a job interview in Canada had to wear their best suit. Then once they started their new job in Canada, they would have to maintain that professional look every day. This type of dress code is known as business formal. In the past, many companies required their employees to adopt business formal attire in the office environment. Business formal still has a place in the modern workplace, and you will still be required to wear it for an interview because first impressions count!

Recently, however, companies have adopted a more lenient dress code called business casual. The business casual dress code gives employees more freedom with their attire in the workplace while still maintaining a professional look. Be that as it may, there is one problem with the term business casual; it is too vague. So, it can be confusing and leave you wondering what is acceptable and what’s not acceptable. Get helpful guidelines to navigate the business casual dress code in Canada.

For newcomers, understanding the Canadian workplace can help you to succeed. And, understanding the dress code is an important part of understanding the workplace.

So What Exactly is the Business Casual Dress Code in Canada?

There is no one accepted definition for the term business casual. What might be considered business casual in one workplace might be completely unacceptable in another. Different companies define business casual differently. It can vary depending on the company’s culture, goals, and public image. However, the overall goal of business casual attire is to allow employees to be comfortable while still looking professional. Essentially, the business casual dress code combines traditional business wear with less formal clothing. The resulting style is still suitable for the work environment while also being more comfortable for employees.

However, the business casual dress code has yet to make its way into every Canadian workplace. So, take responsibility to learn what is suitable office attire. It is always best to dress a little smarter than you have to in the first few days until you have figured out what people wear day to day. You can always drop the tie or unbutton the top button to make an outfit more relaxed if you need to.

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Speak to Your Human Resources Representative

If you are not sure what is required from you when it comes to your attire, you can always give HR a visit. The Human Resources department will be able to guide you regarding the dress code. The company may even have a formal policy that specifically addresses the dress code. Another suggestion is to observe how formal or casual your coworkers are dressing and find a good balance for your attire.

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Benefits of a Business Casual Dress Code

Business casual is a great option for businesses that have no real reason to maintain a formal dress code. Allowing employees to dress more casually can contribute to higher morale, productivity, and creativity. It may also boost employee morale. Business casual attire allows employees to personalize their clothing and stay more comfortable in the workplace. Since professional wardrobes can get quite expensive, business casual also helps employees save money.

Business Casual Do’s and Don’ts

While a business casual dress code can be confusing, here are some helpful tips to consider.

Do:

• Choose appropriate casual wear that fits well and suits the office environment

• Wear denim with a dark wash (lighter-coloured denim can look too casual)

• Consider what other employees are wearing and dress accordingly

• ‘Think of the “beach rule”, if you can wear it to the beach, it’s not acceptable for the office.

Go Shopping

After you have an idea of what business casual wear is suitable for the office, it’s time to go shopping. The salespeople, especially at stores that sell business attire, are well-informed and will be able to guide you. Recently, many businesses have adopted dress codes that are quite lenient and encourage business casual. All you have to do is mention the office dress code and the sales associate can show you a wide array of clothing styles. You may be pleasantly surprised by how many options work with both your personality and the office environment.

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Make Sure to Wear a Smile!

Yes, that might sound a little cheesy, but it is true. No matter what clothes you are wearing, having a smile on your face can go pretty far. Smiling radiates confidence and makes you a more likable person from the first impression. As you start your new career in Canada, just being happy will help you start it on the right note.

For information, tools, free webinars, and more visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals in Canada!

Are you looking to buy a franchise in Canada but are unsure if you can afford the costs? It’s true, an average middle-class salary alone probably won’t be enough to make your dream a reality. But, that doesn’t mean starting a franchise is impossible even on a limited budget. You just have to know where to find the help you need.

Franchise Start-Up Costs

Start-up costs vary widely and can range from as low as $10,000 to more than $1,000,000. A big factor is whether or not you need to own own or lease real estate for your franchise business. You can find the cost to open a franchise in the franchisor’s Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Item 5 contains the initial or franchise fee, or the cost to join the franchise system. Item 7 lists additional start-up costs required such as real estate, equipment, inventory, signage, business licenses, and insurance.

You will also want to include a budget for professional fees for accounting and legal advice. It’s vital to speak to a franchise lawyer and financial advisor/business accountant before you sign a franchise agreement. They can help you to identify any legal or financial issues that may not be in your best interest.

How Much Can You Afford to Buy a Franchise?

To determine how much you can afford to invest in a franchise, you need to have a good understanding of your current finances. You can start by determining your net worth by compiling a balance sheet that lists all assets and liabilities. Some franchise experts advise that you should not invest more than 15% of your own money, but this percentage may vary. When you work with a financial advisor, they can help you determine how much of your own money you can afford to invest based on your financial situation.

Unless you are interested in a low-cost franchise, you will likely need to borrow the majority of the funds to purchase your business. In general, lenders require you to provide 20-25% of the total investment. For example, if you have $50,000 to invest, you can research franchise opportunities in the $200,000 range. Before you approach any lender, make sure you are current on all bill payments and correct any mistakes on your credit report.

How to Calculate Your Net Worth

It’s really quite simple to calculate your approximate net worth in three simple steps:

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Traditional Bank Loans

Borrowers with good credit and collateral may be able to get a traditional loan from a bank or credit union. Most lenders are more likely to offer financing for a franchise business because they are associated with an established brand that has been proven in the marketplace. However, if you are interested in investing in a lesser-known brand such as an emerging franchise, or don’t have a stellar credit rating or collateral, a traditional lender may not be an option and you will need to look elsewhere for funding.

Personal Savings

When financing their new business venture, many franchisees will use personal savings like registered accounts such as Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) and Tax Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs) to finance their new business. Some franchisees have used their homes as collateral to finance a franchise. But, the overall risk as well as tax implications often don’t make sense to finance a franchise in Canada in this manner. 

Government Assistance Small Business Loans:

Small businesses (including franchises) looking to purchase or improve their assets for new or expanded operations could benefit from the Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP).

This government-sponsored loan program offers up to $1,000,000 ($350,000 for equipment and leasehold improvements). The program only finances equipment, leaseholds and real estate and can’t be applied to marketing costs, royalties, and franchise fees.

A key benefit is that 85% of the loan is guaranteed to the lending Bank by the Federal government. This means less risk to you, the borrower.

Other benefits include:

• Various Floating Rates, Fixed Rates and Blended Rate Principal Plus Interest and Principal including Interest repayment options available to the borrower.
• Attractive loan repayment terms ranging from 7 years on equipment, 10 years on leasehold improvement, and up to 15 years on real property loans
• Business Loan Insurance Plan is available (certain conditions may apply)

The lender (bank) doesn’t provide this free and will usually charge:

• a loan document preparation fee of around $175
• a $100 loan application fee
• a one-time-only Federal Government registration fee (2% of the loan amount which may be included in the amount borrowed)
• a 1.25% Administration Fee included as part of your interest rate (not much, but something you have to factor into your debt repayment calculations).

Thinking Outside the Box

When more conventional lending sources can’t produce enough cash to fund your franchise start-up costs, you may need to look beyond traditional methods. An investor such as a family member, friend, or business partner may be willing to offer you funding as well. However, allowing others to invest can come with some strings attached.

Investors may require the ability to make decisions about the business and most will expect a return on their investment, which will cut your profits at first. Still, it may be worthwhile to take on investors if it allows you to get the franchise up and running.

No matter what kind of financing you choose, it’s important to get all the facts in advance so that you’re not caught off guard when it comes time to repay loans or investors down the line.

A limited budget does not have to mean postponing or giving up your plans to buy a franchise. By finding the right financing options to meet your needs you can buy a franchise now and take charge of your future.