The first 90 days in a new job in Canada is an important time to demonstrate to your manager that you have what it takes to achieve success in the role. In addition, some employers may state that you must complete a 90-day probationary period. With these tips for success in your first 90 days, you can be proactive and ensure that you meet and exceed their expectations. This information is vital, especially if this is your first job in Canada and you want to understand the Canadian workplace.

The First 90 Days in Your New Job in Canada: 10 Smart Tips for Success

During your first three months on the job, your new employer will assess your performance, skills, and abilities and determine if you are a good “fit” for the role and the organization. Your direct manager will also assess if you fit the organizational culture. However, it’s also a critical time for you to evaluate if you are happy with your job and employer. If you meet performance expectations within the first 90 days in your new job, and you are satisfied with the job, you can achieve long-term success with these tips. 

1. Understand the Canadian Workplace

The workplace culture in Canada will vary for each company and industry. Do your best to make a great first impression and be open and friendly with your colleagues. Your workplace relationships in Canada are important and help to build trust among coworkers and other teams. A high-trust work environment contributes to workplace efficiency, productivity, and a positive work environment. 

As a newcomer, you may think that you need to change your behaviour to fit into the Canadian workplace. And while you may find some of the workplace etiquette a little different, you’ll pick up the behaviours when you start working.  Canadian employers value diversity in the workplace and recognize how it contributes to improved business outcomes.

2. Know the Company’s Core Values, Products, or Services

You likely did a great deal of research on the company during the interview process.  Now it’s time to expand on that knowledge from the inside of the company. This shows your Canadian employer that you are committed to not only your own success but also that of the organization. Sometimes new employees focus too much on their individual roles and responsibilities and lose sight of what the company is trying to achieve.

Many companies will host a new employee orientation. This orientation can vary in length from a half-day to a day-long session and usually takes place during your first week with the company. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the company’s culture, values, products and services, and key policies and processes. Examples of core policies include:

• Business Code of Conduct

• Diversity, inclusion, and equity in the workplace

• Health & Safety.

A new employee orientation also serves to define the specific behaviours that will contribute to your success in your new job, for example:

• Building relationships with others

• Expressing ideas and sharing information clearly and concisely

• Being open to different ideas and cultures

• Generating ideas

• Recognizing your personal strengths and pursuing self-development. 

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5. Become a Collaborative Team Member in Your First 90 Days

Canadian employers place a high value on teamwork and collaboration to help them achieve their goals. This means fostering positive relationships and building networks. While you may want to complete your work with a minimal amount of socializing, it’s vital to build connections with your team to achieve results. 

6. Get Your Name Out There

It’s important to introduce yourself to other colleagues within the first 90 days. Often called, “meet and greets”, these short 20 – 30 minute meetings allow you to meet others, learn about their roles, and how you can expect to work with them. This will give you an understanding of what others do so you’ll know who to speak to when you have a question. Initiating a “meet and greet” with the key people in your workplace will quickly help you to build relationships.

While it can feel awkward to introduce yourself and ask for help, stepping outside of your comfort zone will be vital to your success in your new job. 

7. Be Social and Positive

The lunch break is a great time to get to know your coworkers within your first 90 days. If everyone brings a lunch and hangs out together then follow suit. Or, join your team occasionally if they go out to eat lunch. You’ll get to explore the area around your office as you get to know your coworkers.

While all of this is good advice, you need to be on top of your game in your new job so you should allow yourself some time to acclimate to the new position and work environment. The important thing is to stay positive while you navigate your first 90 days in your new job.

8. Share Your New Ideas

As a new employee, you bring a fresh set of eyes and you may be able to see something that could improve how the team or company operates. Your input can generate ideas and innovation. However, you also want to avoid being critical. So be sure to convey a compelling message and rationale for providing your ideas. 

9. Dress for the Job

If there is a dress code then you need to make sure that you adhere to it and that you are presentable. The dress code is something that you can learn more about in the employee orientation. However, you can also observe what others wear in your office. It is possible that the official dress code does not align exactly with what you are expected to wear. For example, your manager may dress more formally every day, especially if they are meeting with senior leaders or external clients. However, they may not expect you to dress formally. But, it’s important to find out how you are expected to dress to get it right.

In Canada, many companies have a business casual dress code. This means that men don’t have to wear a suit and tie, and women are not required to wear a structured blazer with a matching skirt or slacks. In some cases, the organization may allow you to wear denim. However, be sure to look presentable and avoid wearing distressed denim.

10. Go the Extra Mile

You would be amazed at how far a little extra effort can take you, especially in your first few weeks and months. Once you have established yourself as someone who gets things done you can look forward to a promising career beyond your first 90 days! 

It’s an exciting time when you land your first job in Canada. But it can also be overwhelming when you want to exceed expectations. Recognizing the importance of your first three months in your new job, these tips will help you navigate the road to career success in Canada!

Salary negotiation is a touchy subject. Most job seekers are still unclear about the best practices for negotiating their salary. As a newcomer to Canada, the subject can be even more intimidating. You’re new to the country and you may be unfamiliar with common job search practices. Many people fear that if they ask for more money they will miss out on the job. Others may immediately accept a job without knowing you have the option to negotiate your salary and other aspects of your job. 

Negotiating your salary in Canada is common. It’s part of the hiring process. So, you shouldn’t shy away from the topic. As with other aspects of the job search process, there is a time and place for everything. There will be some jobs where there is no room for negotiation. As well, there are certain times when it is better to discuss money with your potential employer.

Here are some specific actions, tips, and advice for when and how to negotiate your salary in Canada. 

Can You Negotiate Your Salary in Canada?

This applies to entry-level positions as well. Most people incorrectly assume entry-level salaries are non-negotiable. But this is not always true. Companies will make exceptions for candidates they feel are the right person for the job. However, you usually have less wiggle room for these types of positions because these jobs are easier to fill. 

Common Situations When You Will Negotiate Your Salary

There are a few common situations where you will find yourself in a position to negotiate your salary. They are:

• Multiple job offers: You are in the process of interviewing with a company when another employer shows interest in you. The first company makes you a competitive offer to secure your services. You have the option to negotiate to ensure you receive a strong employment offer.

• Low salary offer from the employer: You received a job offer from a company you want to work for. But the salary is lower than you expected. It is important to negotiate to ensure you receive a salary you are worth.

• A recruiter reaches out to you: You are happy in your current role. A recruiter or other employer reaches out to you to inquire about your willingness to make a career move. You don’t want to leave your current job, but you also want to maximize your earning potential. So, you ask for a raise, knowing you have other job options.

Why Should You Negotiate Your Salary?

Salary negotiation is a normal part of the job search process. While it can be an intimidating process, it’s completely normal. Here are some reasons you should negotiate your salary before accepting a job offer:

• Higher earning potential: It’s simple, the people who negotiate their salary make more than those who do not.

• Employers can offer more: Companies do not usually put their best offer up first. There is often wiggle room.

• Other compensation is involved: Even if a company is not willing to offer you a higher salary, they make be willing to offer you other types of compensation such as an annual bonus, higher commission, stock options, or even more vacation time.

• Know your value: When you negotiate you are showing an employer that you know your value.

• If you don’t ask, you won’t get what you want: Higher salaries are often an option, but if you don’t ask, an employer is not going to offer them.

How To Approach Salary Negotiation in Canada

If you are going to negotiate your salary, you need to approach it the right way by taking these actions:

Get Everything in Writing

This is important and often overlooked by employees. Get all agreed-upon salary terms and conditions in writing. This will ensure everything you have spoken about is documented.

Things to Avoid When Negotiating Your Salary in Canada

Here are some important pointers to keep in mind. Avoid doing the following as part of the negotiation process:

Ask Before You Receive an Offer

The timing of your negotiations is important.  Ideally, you should wait until you have received a formal offer in writing.  You should also feel free to ask for some time to consider the offer to formulate your salary request.

Focus Only on the Money 

It can be very easy to get yourself into a mindset where you are only thinking about salary. Salary is important but it is not the only thing. Consider the possibility of a signing bonus, commission, and other forms of compensation as part of your job offer package. Other things to negotiate on top of or in addition to base salary include:

• Remote work

• A one-time signing bonus

• Higher commission rate

• Ongoing professional development

• Tuition reimbursement

• Professional dues

• Additional vacation days.

Show Your Hand

Don’t reveal your bottom-line number or you will lose your leverage in the negotiation. Know your worth and do not be afraid to ask for it. Employers will respect this. Your offer will not disappear because you want to negotiate. In most cases, the worst thing that will happen is they will say no to your request for a higher salary. 

Salary negotiations can be intimidating, but they are necessary if you want to be paid what you are worth. It’s also a common practice in the hiring process in Canada. So if you don’t try to negotiate salary, you could be leaving money on the table. 

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!

Networking is a crucial way to research and learn about your profession in Canada. And asking the right networking interview questions can help you to make professional contacts, speed up your job search, and grow your career. Another key to successful networking is being authentic.

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 specialise in helping newcomers plan for, and achieve, employment success, no matter what city or province they are moving to.

When it comes to networking, Ryan provides great insights and advice to newcomers on the importance of authenticity. Read more to learn why networking is important, how to create a network, and how to network while being yourself.

Networking is all about building rapport and rapport is all about being authentic.

Linda Ryan

Grow Your Contacts through Effective Networking

Networking provides a chance for newcomers to connect with others from a range of professions. It’s also a vital way to achieve career success in Canada. When networking with a goal to build a genuine relationship, it can help you to:

• Meet other professionals in your industry 

• Build confidence

• Grow your network contacts

• Access the hidden job market.

And when you connect to ask networking interview questions you’ll gain helpful information about:

• Labour market trends

• Job postings, and

• Training and skills development.

And as Ryan points out, you’ll achieve success when instead of ‘trying’ to network, you commit to building a genuine relationship by being curious, present, and authentic. In doing so, you’ll benefit by learning from their career experiences.

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Three Truths About Networking

Prepare for Canada asked Ryan for her best networking tips. Here’s what she had to offer about being genuine, authentic, and present:

1. You don’t build rapport, you erode it

You’ve heard it before, and it’s true, first impressions count! Ryan advises against entering a room with a “me, me, me” agenda. “Even if it’s only in your head, you’ll inadvertently push people away. They may not be able to put their finger on it, but on a primal level, they’ll sense an ulterior motive. As a result, they subconsciously see you as a threat and quickly and quietly move towards the exit or a less threatening professional animal!”

2. You can’t fake a smile

Another one of her favourite truths, you can’t fake it ’till you make it’ especially with a smile! As she explains, it’s all to do with muscles, tendons and exposure of the teeth. “You actually engage a different set of muscles to force a smile. So, your best efforts to force a smile (even if well-intentioned) are more like getting ready to bite. And guess what this does? It triggers another subconscious fight or flight instinct in your ‘prey’. I mean peer network!”

3. You can’t listen if you’re waiting to talk

Ryan explains that this pearl of wisdom was shared with her early. “It was like the heavens opened and the light shone for the first time. I always felt uncomfortable with my approach to networking, but I never knew that simple lever to pull. As a result, I got stuck every time when trying to create a meaningful networking connection.”

When you’re waiting to talk, you’re in your own head (so people feel unheard). If you’re waiting to talk, you’re not truly listening to what the other person is saying. Instead, you’re trying to find something intelligent or insightful to broadcast (so people feel undervalued). And, if you’re waiting to talk, you’re not allowing yourself to experience the human connection (subtle body language, energy, pitch/pace/tone of voice) that’s possible.

Why Networking in Canada is Important

Networking is about connecting with people who have similar interests. And a key element of your network is to provide mutual help and support. Strong networking skills can help you to find a job. As well, these skills will also help you to achieve success in the workplace after you land a job. So building and nurturing your network contacts is an essential part of your career success!

An important benefit of networking is that it can help you learn about jobs that are not yet advertised, also called the “hidden job market”.

To understand the hidden job market think of it as an iceberg. The top of the iceberg represents the visible job market or jobs that are widely advertised. The bottom part of the iceberg represents the hidden job market. This is where you can learn about jobs that are currently only posted internally.

When a company advertises a job externally, it’s common for employers to receive hundreds of applications for one position. And that means more competition for you. So networking is a helpful way to access the internal hiring process.

How Do I Create a Network in Canada?

Building a wide network of contacts is key to accessing the hidden job market. A helpful way to create a network is to make a list of people who can help you. This can include:   

• Friends and family

• Former managers, colleagues, customers, and clients

• Contacts from professional associations

• Teachers, professors, and classmates.

You can also identify contacts from:

• Volunteer activities

• Professional events

• Online networking groups (LinkedIn)

• Outside activities (social groups, sports activities, athletic clubs).

When networking it’s good to start with who you know. However, that can be hard if you recently arrived and know very few people. So connecting with professional associations can be a great place to build your network and meet new people!

If you’re not used to networking for business purposes, it can feel uncomfortable. But, remember that other people want to help you to succeed in Canada. And one day, you’ll be in the same position when you can help others arriving in Canada.

You’ll become more comfortable when you ask the right networking interview questions. These networking questions are thoughtful and lead to useful information to conduct your job search. And by asking thoughtful questions you’ll leave people with a good and lasting impression. And like Ryan stated, “first impressions count”.

How to Ask Good Networking Interview Questions

1. Ask open-ended instead of closed-ended questions (require a yes or no reply). Open-ended questions encourage more discussion. For example: “How did you get started in this field when you arrived in Canada? Or, ” What job search activities did you find most helpful?”

2. Ask questions that will make people think and share their opinion.

• Lead with a question about an article you read or other industry news. This shows that you are current and like to stay informed.

• Listen actively and show that you have a keen interest in what your contact has to say.

Sample Networking Interview Questions

You’ll likely have your own questions that you would like to ask. And here are some other questions that you can add:

• What skills were most valuable to help you achieve success in this field?

• Where do you see this industry/sector going in the future?

• What are some of the key changes affecting the industry in Canada?

• Who are some of the most important leaders in the industry in Canada? Who should I follow?

• Are there opportunities for self-employment in the field?

• What changes are happening in the field that will affect future job opportunities?

• What further training would help me to stay current in this field?

Listen actively to their responses and probe for more information with related networking interview questions.

Tips for Networking in Canada

Networking is a great way to propel your job search. But it’s also important to maintain and nurture your relationship. A strong relationship based on mutual support will go a long way to advance your career. These tips can develop and enhance your networking skills.

• Share articles that would be of interest to others in your network. 

• Send a short note to congratulate your contacts when they changes roles, are promoted, or move to a new company.

• Become known for helping others.

• Offer to introduce your contacts to other professionals that you know.

• Follow up with new contacts and thank them for helping you or sharing their ideas and time.

• Invite your contacts to lunch or even tea or coffee to practice your networking skills and build your relationship. 

Building relationships with other professionals is important when networking. And asking thoughtful networking interview questions can help you build rapport and reach your career goals.

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.

In addition to writing a ‘Canadian style resume,’ it’s also vital to include a well-written ‘elevator pitch’. An ‘elevator pitch’ or career goal is a quick summary that describes your professional goals and the value you can offer. You can use an elevator pitch in many situations including interviews, networking conversations, cover letters, and of course, your resume. With clear examples of an elevator pitch, you’ll be able to write an effective pitch with confidence.

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 specialise in helping newcomers plan for, and achieve, employment success, no matter what city or province they are moving to.

When it comes to job searching in Canada, Ryan works closely with newcomers who are eager to continue their careers in Canada. Ryan provides advice and career tips to help newcomers succeed in Canada. In the article, learn about the importance of an elevator pitch and examples of what to include in your pitch.

PFC: Can you help us understand what an ‘elevator pitch’ is?

Linda Ryan: At a high level, an elevator pitch is a communication tool that will help you to promote yourself in a clear and concise way. That’s why it’s called an elevator pitch. For example, you should be able to say it within 30 seconds, about the time you’d spend riding an elevator with someone. But, before you’re ready to say your pitch, you need to prepare to write it.

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PFC: How do you suggest job-seekers prepare to write their elevator pitch?

Linda Ryan: Even before people begin to write, I suggest that they find a:

• Pen and paper (or post-it notes, or crayons! Whatever makes you feel happy)

• Quiet space, to think and dream

• Comfortable place to sit.

This is a great place to ask yourself about your career goals. This step is about imagining what you’d love to be/do and reality-checking that career dream with what the industry is expecting you to possess. Ask yourself and answer what…

• Kind of career am I aiming for?

• Kind of roles and role titles will lead me to this?

• Skills, credentials or education are employers asking for (for similar roles)?

• Experience, duties and career achievements do I have that meet these needs?

With the answers to these important questions, you’re ready to begin the process of writing your elevator pitch.  

PFC: Can you provide an example of an elevator pitch and what it should include?

Linda Ryan: As I’ve said, you’re ready to begin writing your elevator pitch when you know what you’re searching for. But, you don’t have to create the pitch all in one go. For example, a smart next step is to list the key elements of your “story”. A good example of an elevator pitch should include: 

• Years of experience

• Scope of technical expertise

• Educational qualification/background

• Accreditation/credential status (relevant to the profession and province)

• National/international project exposure

• The kind of role/job title you’re focusing on.

PFC: What tips or examples can you provide about how to write an elevator pitch?

Linda Ryan: With the facts in front of you, review and edit what you’ve got then begin joining the points together with sentences.

• Write it in the first person (me, I)
• Use paragraph style (not bullet points)
• Limit it to three to five sentences
• Tell employers a story by:
  • writing in a way that shows career consistency and technical progression, and 
  • framing your paragraph around the ‘me/we’ value proposition.

And always remember: you need more than one elevator pitch. Good elevator pitches are simple to understand and feature your unique selling points.

PFC: What last piece of advice would you offer?

Linda Ryan: If all else fails, feel free to use this… (but I wouldn’t recommend it!!)

‘My career objective is to work in <insert sector here> and I’m open to any opportunity in your company.’ If anything, this is an example of an elevator pitch to avoid. 

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.

Newcomers know from experience the challenges that you will face when you arrive and begin job searching in Canada. But, based on their journeys, you can gain from their wisdom. Here are five things that newcomers wish they knew or did differently related to their job search efforts.

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 specialise in helping newcomers plan for, and achieve, employment success, no matter what city or province they are moving to.

When it comes to job searching in Canada, Ryan works closely with newcomers who are eager to continue their careers in Canada. Ryan shares what some of the most common issues are that they face and how to overcome them.

5 Things to Know and Do When Job Searching in Canada

1. Get to Know Your Industry 

Ryan states that the best way to spend your time is to research your industry and the roles within it. When job searching in Canada, it’s vital to know the industry trends and challenges. When you invest time to research the industry, it helps you to plan job search activities and shape your career in Canada. For example, in addition to identifying trends, it’s also helpful to know: 

• The credential recognition path 

• What professional development options exist (current and future)

• How your skills and education compare to Canadian standards, and

• How relevant licensing bodies, industry or professional associations can help you with job searching in Canada.

When you know this information it will help you to focus your career-building activities and get the best out of your efforts.

2. Benefit from the Value of Networking

The thing to know here is that “networking is as important as job hunting” says Ryan. She adds that blindly sending out resumes when you first arrive in Canada is not all that effective. Newcomers are often surprised at how important networking is, especially when building an early career in Canada.

Ryan suggests helpful tips such as joining newsfeeds or discussion groups on LinkedIn and:

• Connecting with other professionals in your industry

• Attending relevant industry and association events

• Reaching out authentically to learn about others. 

Ryan advises against sending connection requests on LinkedIn for the purpose of ‘asking for a job’. Because as she explains Canadians like to get to know you, your track record and even a little of your life story. It’s the same in the business world, and when people know you, they get to know what you know!

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3. Build Connections and Canadian Experience

Another thing that Ryan hears is how newcomers wished they had expanded their communities beyond their friends and family when they arrived. So what exactly does this look like? Well, Ryan shares that newcomers often wished they had spent time getting more ‘Canadian experience’ through:

• Training

• Volunteering, and

• Acquiring/challenging credentials.

These are all important ways to help your job search in Canada. 

They also wished that they took more time to look for the right work that they truly wanted as opposed to taking work that paid ‘survival’ money. If they had, they would have invested better in their long-term success.

Watch now to get engineering and licensing tips for newcomers:

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4. Improve Your English Skills

Newcomers often tell Ryan that they should have invested more time using free or low-cost online English as a Second Language (ESL) training and tools. “I couldn’t agree more!” says Ryan. Before you arrive in Canada, it’s important to improve your English language skills. Doing so will dramatically increase your confidence and how you authentically connect with communities and professionals.  When you’re confident, it will lead to greater success when job searching in Canada.

5. Plan and Balance Your Job Searching Time

Job searching is stressful. Added to that stress, as a newcomer, you’re busy when you first land in Canada. Searching for work, finding accommodation, navigating transit, setting up basics, and adapting to life in Canada are all time-consuming. Ryan’s advice is to plan your time like a pro. She says, “your best approach is to think of this time in your life as strategic project management. For example, assign an hour each day to job search and research, an hour to logistics and getting settled, and an hour connecting with settlement, professional associations, and employment support services. After that, get out, explore your community and meet people. After all, you came to Canada for a new life. It’s important to make sure it’s as balanced as possible!”

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.

Searching for a job and having enough money to live on are likely the biggest pain points for newcomers when they arrive in Canada. And even with years of experience in your field, you may face challenges when interviewing, including dealing with job search rejection. However, it’s important to know how to stay positive, learn from your interview experience, and move forward with confidence.

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 specialise in helping newcomers plan for, and achieve, employment success, no matter what city or province they are moving to.

When it comes to how to deal with job search rejection, Ryan provides four simple, proven steps to deal with the self-doubt that can follow. As a successful career coach for newcomers to Canada, Ryan has helped many along the path to success. Ryan states, “We’ve all been there and done that…the dreaded job search. A joyous journey to rejection, silence, and self-doubt. Until the time when your job application, contacts, or chance meeting shines bright like a diamond and you’re in.”

Four Steps to Stay Positive and Achieve Job Search Success 

Once a newcomer herself, Ryan has had first-hand experience with the challenges and realities of a Canadian job search. She knows that job search rejection can create difficult feelings. So here are four steps that she followed and recommends to others to stay positive and achieve success.

Step One: Shoot for the Stars

“I encourage clients to shoot for the stars, dream big and give themselves the luxury of feeling successful.” Specifically, Ryan advises clients to ask these vital questions: “What does success look like, feel like and sound like?” You can read more about visualizing success in Newcomers Need Two Career Plans.

Step Two: Get Realistic About the Job Search Process

This step relates to your job search goals. Once you have established your lofty goals, it’s time to set realistic, measurable, and time-sensitive objectives. “Breaking lofty goals into teeny, weeny baby steps and actions towards those goals makes your job search less daunting.”

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Step Three: Get Philosophical About Job Search Rejection and Stay Positive

Ryan reminds clients to avoid taking job search rejection personally. She says, “We are infinite beings in finite bodies. And even if we were always told that we were special, when it comes to the job search, we are one of many.” And as a result, our efforts are constrained by factors we can’t control or even influence. Ryan states “there are many factors that determine who will get selected for an interview. For example, these factors include the:

• number of applicants we’re competing with

• database parameters that sort and reject our resumes

• people who review and shortlist our beautifully formatted work histories.”

As for the people who are reviewing the resumes, think about what may be influencing their decision-making. For example, Ryan says, “Are they having a good day or bad day? Are they energized or exhausted? Are they happy with their company or looking to jump ship themselves? There are many reasons why it may not go your way, so why give those things your attention and energy!” Stay positive and don’t let disappointment derail your job search efforts.

Step Four: Read The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom

“Written by Don Miguel Ruiz (1997, Amber-Allen Publishing), the book reminds us of four things we all should have been taught when we were seven years old!” Ryan says.

First Agreement: Be Impeccable with Your Word

“When you are impeccable, you take responsibility for your actions, but you do not judge or blame yourself (or others!)”

Second Agreement: Don’t Take Anything Personally

“Whatever happens around you, don’t take it personally because the issue can be about the other person (or process), not you.”

Third Agreement: Don’t Make Assumptions

“We have the tendency to make assumptions about everything. The problem with making assumptions is that we believe they are the truth…We assume, we misunderstand, we take it personally, and we end up creating a whole big drama that works against us.”

Fourth Agreement: Always Do Your Best

“Under any circumstance, always do your best, no more and no less. But keep in mind that your best is never going to be the same from one moment to the next.”

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.

To achieve professional success it’s vital to develop a career plan. But, where do you start? If you don’t know where or how to start to develop your plan, then continue reading and get helpful tips.

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 developing a career plan, Linda Ryan shares the top five things you can do to achieve success! Prepare for Canada spoke to her to get her valuable insights about how to develop a career plan. Ironically, none of her tips even mention resume, job hunting, or LinkedIn. Those elements, Ryan stated, are all about attitude and approach. In contrast, the tips she offers provide the building blocks of any successful life transition. And, that includes helping newcomers develop a career plan to achieve success even before arriving in Canada.  

Developing a Career Plan Starts with these 5 Tips

We asked Linda Ryan for her advice on why it’s essential to develop a career plan and where to begin. She discussed five key tips that she has come to believe are the building blocks of any successful transition.

1: Get focused

2: Get real

3: Get knowledgeable

4: Get prepared

5: Get on with it.

PFC: What’s a good starting point to develop a career plan, especially for people who want to build a new career in Canada.

Linda Ryan: My first tip is to get focused. “Adopting the ‘‘I’ll take any job’ mindset is one of the most unhelpful approaches to career transition, especially in a new country.” Accepting any job, or what’s also known as a survival job, serves to pay the bills while you search for a job that aligns with your:

• Career dreams

• Education

• Qualifications, and 

• Industry experience. 

However, accepting “any job” is not a sustainable career development strategy. And, taking any job will leave you feeling unfulfilled, unproductive, and unhappy.

A better approach is to focus on what you would love to do in one, five, or 15 years from now.

The next step is to look at the: 

• Professions

• Requirements, and

• Local labour market conditions to find a balance of what is possible for your career development.

It’s helpful to focus on up to three possible role types that you would like to pursue. This will help you decide what specific activities you must act upon to develop a plan and achieve career success. 

PFC: Can you tell us more about your second tip: Get Real?

Linda Ryan: It’s important to be realistic about the job prospects in Canada. So it’s a good idea to access high-level labour market information for the city, province and profession where you plan to settle. Job Bank is Canada’s national employment service that’s available as a website and mobile app.

It helps you develop a career plan and find work by providing an overview of your profession in Canada. This career planning tool is invaluable and provides information about:

• Education/certification requirements 

• Credential recognition

• Career paths

• Role title variation

• Earning potential, and even

• Local job demand.

PFC: Your third tip talks about the importance of knowledge when developing a career plan. What specific advice would you give?

Linda Ryan: It’s helpful to know if your profession is regulated or unregulated in Canada. When you confirm this, you’ll know what you require to work in Canada and what it actually means for your goals. With this knowledge, you can adjust your career-planning activities accordingly.

PFC: Your fourth tip is to get prepared. What specific activities would you suggest to help people prepare for their career in Canada?

Linda Ryan: One vital activity is to understand the difference between education evaluation and credential evaluation.  There are clear differences between each activity that can help you prepare for career success. 

If you plan to arrive in Canada soon, you can start these activities before you arrive. Because doing so is smart and strategic! To learn more, check out this post.

Also, get comfortable with planning. In fact, you should have a Plan A and a Plan B (maybe even a Plan C) for your career. And expect to change these plans as your circumstances and experiences change.

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PFC: Tip five is to get on with it. What more would you like to say about this tip?

Linda Ryan: Only you are accountable for developing a career plan, no one else. However, it’s healthy to ask for help and seek guidance from experts. You can even access free newcomer services to help you achieve your career goals faster. It’s also helpful to build connections with peers in your local industry.

But, it’s up to you to take consistent and constructive action to build the career that you want. So, get into action, adjust your plans, and keep on doing.

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.

Being new to Canada, one of the first things you will want to do when you arrive in the country is begin your job search. It can take some time before you get a call for an interview. But you can use this time to learn how to prepare for a job interview in Canada. Plus, this time will allow you to become familiar with how job interviews work in Canada and how they differ from your home country. 

Getting a job interview is exciting. It’s an opportunity for you to really get your life rolling in Canada. But before you think too far ahead, you need to prepare for a successful interview that leads to a job offer. 

Understand the Job Interview Process

A job interview does not guarantee you will get the job. But it’s an important opportunity to show how your skills and experience make you a great candidate for the role. The interview process for Canadian companies is not always the same. However, you can expect many of the following practices. And some interviews may even combine some of these practices:

• Pre-screening telephone interview

• In-person interviews

• Video interview

• Panel interviews

• Skill and knowledge tests

• Writing tests

• Job offers and negotiation

When you know what to expect and understand the process this will help you to prepare for your interview and focus your time and effort.

Understand the Job and What is Expected

The key to your interview success is having a clear understanding of what the job requires. This will help you to focus on how to prepare. For example, it’s vital to:

• Read the job description carefully and highlight the skills and experience that you have

• Read through the company website to learn what makes it successful

• Understand where the job fits within the company hierarchy and the type of jobs it can lead to in the future 

• Look up information about the job title such as duties, responsibilities, and salary.

You can find helpful information about occupations, wages, job requirements, and more when you visit the Canada Job Bank.

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Know What You Offer 

Interviewers will ask you different questions about your skills and experience. But what they really want to know is why you are the best fit and what you can offer. To prepare for an interview ask yourself:

• Why am I the best candidate for this role?

• What skills and experience do I have that directly relate to the role?

• How can I help the company to achieve its goals?

• What makes me unique and different from other candidates? (i.e. international experience, language, etc)

• Why do I fit the company values and culture?

Practice to Prepare for a Successful Interview

You will get out of the experience what you put into it. So, if you invest time and effort to prepare for an interview, you will have a much greater chance of it leading to a job offer. 

• Review your resume and know it from top to bottom

• Look up interview questions that are common for the role

• Practice your answers

• Get a trusted friend to help you do a mock interview

• Get advice from a trusted friend or professional for how you can improve your interviewing.

Many settlement agencies offer job search services on how to prepare for a job interview.

Take Care of Details the Day Before Your Interview

Here are some important details to handle the day before the interview:

• Review directions to the interview location so that you arrive on time

• Make sure you are familiar with the interview software (if it’s online)

• Ensure you have the interviewer’s contact information

• Select clothing that is appropriate for a job interview.

Taking care of these things will help you have a clear mind on the day of the interview. And this will help to put your best effort forward. Preparing for a job interview will give you the confidence you need to succeed. So put in the time and effort and give yourself the best chance to get the job you desire in Canada!

Looking for more information about working in Canada? Visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page for free tools, resources, and webinars! We’ll help you to achieve your career goals!

There are many exciting careers in the construction industry right across Canada. And available jobs will continue to increase with many current workers retiring in the years to come. So if you’re looking to make a career change, there are great possibilities, even if don’t have a construction background.

Linda Ryan is the Provincial Manager (Apprenticeship Services) with BCCA. When it comes to looking for a career, Ryan provides tips on how to successfully make your career change to the Canadian construction industry. BCCA-Integrating Newcomers, is a government funded, Canada-wide, pre-arrival career coaching service for high skilled construction professionals immigrating to Canada (*BCCA-IN). The BCCA-IN team helps newcomers plan for, and achieve, employment success, no matter what city or province they are moving to.

Prepare for Canada: Can you tell us more about the shortage of workers in the construction industry? What types of professions are needed?

Linda Ryan: 

With an 80,000 shortfall predicted in workforce numbers over the next decade due to retirements and modest industry growth, it’s fair to say Canada’s construction industry is actively hiring. Like any industry, construction needs tradespeople and specialist professionals such as engineers, architects, estimators, etc. As well, the industry requires strategic professionals for functions such as: 

• Information Technology

• Human Resources

• Marketing

• Finance

• Health and Safety.

Prepare for Canada: The employee shortfall is great news for job seekers with a construction background. But, what advice do you have for newcomers who want to make a career change?  In other words, how can newcomers actually transition their non-construction skills and experience?

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Ryan offered these tips to make a career change to the construction industry.

Six Insightful Career Change Tips

Tip 1: Commit to the Career Change Journey

Transitioning your career to a new industry is possible as long as you have a clear plan and are prepared to take lots of small, progressive steps to get there. Accepting that your career transition is a journey, not a destination, is key. It will prepare you for the action and accountability you must assume to make a successful career change.

Tip 2: Know Your Career Change Goal

Answer this question: What’s my goal in moving into the construction industry?

In other words, what will it give you that you don’t currently have? The more honest you are about what and why the more focused you can be about the kind of roles and companies that will suit you. Answering this question will help you confirm what you’re prepared to do to get started because you will have to take a step back in the short term to build your reputation in a new industry.

Tip 3: Review Your Resume and Your Life Experiences

This is where people make a big mistake. Recruiters will ‘pigeonhole’ you when they read your resume and only consider you for roles that match your experience and industries. So, your old resume won’t cut it. You can overcome this barrier by investing time to look back on your life, hobbies, family influences, volunteer endeavours, and professional experience. Then rewrite a resume and cover letter that shows:

i. An exposure to and interest in construction

II. Key skills and past role achievements that will transfer well into your new target industry.

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Tip 4: Tailor Your Resume

Start job hunting for roles you’re a realistic fit for in the construction industry. This may mean considering more junior roles. Although you may have transferable skills, employers know that you will have to learn the industry to add 100% of your value, and that takes time. So, know your value but be humble about where you will start your career.

Spend less time applying for jobs and more time tailoring your resume for specific ‘obvious fit’ roles.

Tip 5: Start Connecting  

Business in Canada relies on a strong network, and even more so in the construction industry. If you’re not prepared to invest time to network and connect with peers online and offline, then you’re not really committed to a career transition.

LinkedIn is a helpful tool to build a professional network and connect with peers. However, don’t connect to ask for a job. Instead, connect because you share a common:

• professional interest

• role background, or

• past experience.

Sometimes it’s as simple as sending a blank connection request on LinkedIn, other times, it’s about asking to connect because you’d value some ‘local industry insights’. Try different approaches. You’ve nothing to lose.

Tip 6: Check Out Your Local Construction Association

There are many construction associations across Canada. Most are formed as corporate, member-based, not-for-profit organizations. Their mission is to advocate for local construction stakeholders. The associations offer networking events, short in-person and online (inexpensive) courses and are great sources of local industry insights. To find your local Canadian Construction Association, start here: CCA Membership.

These are great tips for anyone looking to make a career change and enter the Canadian construction industry. And BCCA-IN can provide the support and guidance you need.

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.

Are you looking to find the highest-paying jobs in Canada? You are not alone. Everyone wants to make a good wage in a career they enjoy. Canada is home to a diverse economy with a wide range of high-paying jobs. You can work in health care, technology, business, finance, e-commerce, oil and gas, and just about any other industry and find yourself in a high-paying position. 

Are you starting out in your career? Is it time for a mid-life career change? Or do you want to learn more about the best-paying jobs in your industry? it’s important to know what is out there for you. The best industries to work in and how much jobs pay will depend on the province, city, and many other factors. 

Knowing the highest-paying jobs is only the first step. It’s also a good idea to understand the most in-demand roles. But most importantly, you need to know how to apply for these competitive and high-paying jobs if you hope to get one. 

Below you will learn about some of the highest-paying and most in-demand jobs in Canada. You’ll also get tips on how to apply for these jobs to improve your chances of getting a call for an interview. 

What are the Highest Paying Jobs In Canada?

There are many high-paying jobs in Canada. While the industries and type of work you do will vary, they do have some common factors. For example, you will require extensive post-secondary education, training, and certification to qualify for these roles. Here are some of the highest-paying jobs in Canada right now:

Doctor/ Physician

There is no surprise to see a doctor on this list. There is a big demand for all types of physicians across the country. Many new doctors come from other countries where they have already completed medical school and the required training. A doctor in Canada can make $150,000 or more per year. Learn more about licensing and other requirements to work as a medical doctor in Canada.

Dentist

Dentists are always in demand. Everyone needs to see one to ensure they have good oral hygiene. Similar to doctors, you will need extensive education and training. You can make over $100,000 annually. If you specialize in dental surgery or other dental specializations, you can increase your average salary. Find out more about what’s required to work as a dentist in Canada.

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Pharmacist

Similar to other roles in the medical profession, pharmacists and related roles in pharmaceutical sciences require you to have extensive training. Again, like other health-related roles, you will be compensated well. You can make about $110, 000 per year or more. Find out more about what you require to work as a pharmacist in Canada.

Engineer

Engineers work in a variety of different industries and disciplines. You can be a mechanical, software, automotive, aerospace, electrical, or civil engineer. You will need to complete an engineering degree and pass a professional examination. Engineers will make $120,000 or more. 

Financial Advisor

Financial advisors play a key role in helping people and companies manage their investment portfolios. You can work for banks, credit unions, and many other types of financial institutions. Professionals in this field can make $100,000 per year or more. You also have advancement opportunities to work in a number of different roles within the finance industry.

Accountant

Financial professionals are in demand in Canada and accountants are leading the way. There are many types of companies seeking out accountants. How much you make per year depends on where you work. For example, working for an accounting firm versus working for a large corporation or operating as an independent professional will affect your annual salary. Accountants can make over $100, 000 per year. 

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Utilities Manager

Working in the energy industry is a great opportunity. There is growth in the renewable energy field and how energy is used continues to change. Utility managers plan and operate utility company operations. It is a specialized role that comes with an average annual salary of about $115, 000. 

Data Scientists

Big data and analytics continue to become more important in the business world. Statistical modelling and data analysis help companies make more accurate forecasts and strategic decisions. They are in demand to assist with making sales, marketing, and strategic decisions. Data scientists can make $90,000 per year or more. 

Business Administration and Commerce

Working in business gives you the opportunity to take on many different roles as you work your way up the corporate ladder. While traditional roles still pay very well, there is an increasing focus on the e-commerce side of business operations. Working in business administration, you can make well over $100,000 per year. 

Lawyer

No surprise here. It’s common knowledge that lawyers can make a good salary. You will be required to complete law school in Canada and pass the Bar Exam. An experienced lawyer can make $130,000 on average and up. There is no cap on your earning potential, which makes it an attractive career option. 

This is by no means a complete list. There are many additional careers that can pay you just as much as the above jobs. 

What Jobs are Most in Demand?

Another way to think about high-paying jobs is to look at the roles that are in the greatest demand. In-demand roles usually come with a good compensation package and other perks. The most in-demand jobs in Canada in 2021 and for the foreseeable future are as follows:

• Registered nurse
• Software engineers
• Blockchain developers
• Web developer and programmer
• Cyber security specialists
• Human resources professional
• Recruiting professionals
• Financial advisors
• General labourers
• Project manager
• Account manager
• Accountant
• Data scientists.

Each one of these roles can offer you a career with a good salary and the opportunity to advance in the future. 

How to Apply for Highest Paying Jobs in Canada

If you want to get a call for an interview for a high-paying job, you need to present yourself as a top candidate. Everything about your job application needs to be on point. Applying for a job has to do with more than presenting a good resume. So here are some great tips to help you apply for the highest-paying jobs in Canada:

Focus Your Resume on Your Accomplishments

If you want a high-paying job, you need a resume that presents you as a top candidate in your field. So rather than list your past skills and experience, focus your resume on your accomplishments. Craft it to convey how your experience and skills will help the organization you want to work for. To do this you will need to customize your resume and application for each job you apply for. Use the information you find on the company website and in the job listing to create a custom application package. 

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Establish an Online Presence

Expect employers to check you out online when you apply for a job. While not having an online presence won’t change your odds, having a poor online presence will. Make sure you do not post anything controversial or even anything that may cause a hiring manager or recruiter to second-guess you. Mine all your social media channels and delete anything that does not present you in a positive light. 

You can make your online presence work for you by being an active participant in your industry community. Have a strong LinkedIn profile, take part in industry groups, and be an active participant. This will help you build name recognition in your industry. 

Become an Expert to Find the Highest Paying Jobs in Canada

To make yourself a more attractive candidate, work toward making yourself an expert in your industry. There are many ways you can do this that are free or of little cost. For example, you can start a blog, be active on social media, or create a YouTube channel or podcast. You can also take more traditional routes by attending industry conferences, looking for speaking engagements, and getting a role as a board member of your industry associations. 

Expand Your Skills to Get Highest Paying Jobs in Canada

Professional growth and development are an essential part of building a career where you continue to thrive. Always look for opportunities to add new skills, credentials, and certifications. This will show employers that you have a strong drive to succeed. You will also be a more valuable asset to their organization. It’s also helpful to know if your occupation is regulated or unregulated in Canada. Regulated professions may require you to obtain additional certifications.

Build a Robust Professional Network

The people you know are important. People that always seem to find new opportunities tend to have a strong professional network. The more people you know, the greater chance you will have to identify new jobs. Sometimes it can be as simple as getting someone you know to introduce you to a mutual connection. 

You get out what you put into the job search process. If you are applying for a high-paying and competitive job you will need to put in the effort. Using this information will help you to identify and apply for the highest-paying jobs in Canada

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!