Building your professional network is essential when you’re seeking a new job.  And, if you’re moving to Canada you can start building your network even before you arrive. A strong network can help you to access the Canadian job market by building and developing relationships. Effective networking is a critical job search activity that you can begin while still in your home country. Discover six helpful tips to develop your networking skills!

Until you arrive in Canada, your online network will be key. But, when you arrive in Canada, make an effort to network face-to-face to build relationships. It may seem difficult at first, but most people are very eager to help, even those who may not be closely connected to you.

Networking can open many doors to jobs that are not yet advertised, but first, you have to have the right connections. So, how can you build your professional network in Canada when you live abroad?

1. Create a Network Action Plan

Building an effective network takes time and effort. Take time to create a plan of action to build your professional online network. Set some goals and know what you want to accomplish. When you’re clear about what you want to achieve you can have the right conversation.

Possible goals might be to:

• Find out how to get work in a specific sector
• Find out how to prepare to get work in the sector (ie; training or certification)
• Learn how your past experience and skills would be relevant to Canadian employers
• Discover job prospects for an industry and which organizations may be expanding
• Find out who else you can speak to, to gain more information.

2. Start With Who You Know

“You are not ever a genius all by yourself. Your ideas are a function of the people you are connected with…”

Carol Dweck, Author, Mindset

The people that you already know can likely introduce you to others in their network. Start connecting with your contacts in a meaningful way. Reach out to the people you already know to build your professional network. Chances are that they know someone who has moved to Canada before you and can connect you to them. Whether or not they are in the same profession as you, they may be able to offer professional insights and introduce you to others.

Research shows that close to 80% of available jobs are not advertised. This represents what is known as the hidden job market.  You can access the hidden job market through your professional and personal contacts and network.

Actions:

Start by listing your current contacts:

• Personal contacts: include family, friends and acquaintances, clubs and organizations, and community groups
• Work contacts: include co-workers (current and past), supervisors/managers, peers, subordinates, and other associates such as clients, and vendors
• Education contacts: include alumni (high school, college, university), teachers and professors, coaches, instructors, and classmates
• Professional group contacts: include industry or trade groups, online forums, and websites

To learn more about job search methods in Canada and steps to success, join our webinar:

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3. Use the Power of Social Media to Build Your Professional Network

A thoughtful approach to using social media can help you make connections quickly, and build relationships over time.

Actions:

• Join relevant Social Media groups and participate in online chats
• Share articles on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook to increase your visibility
• Use relevant industry hashtags to share content and engage with others
• Follow relevant individuals, groups, and industries in Canada relevant to your profession

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4. Give Back to Your Network

“The currency of real networking is not greed but generosity”

Keith Ferazzi

One way to build relationships with your network is to create value. Be someone who provides, information, and support to others. Your network partners will remember your effort and be willing to return the favour.

Consider:

• How can you add value to others?
• How can you help others solve their problems?
• Can you introduce people within your network?
• How can you take initiative to help others?

5. Create Your Social Media Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is all about you: who you are, what you do, and what you want to do. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to hiring managers and other connections. Your social media presence is your elevator pitch and it represents your professional brand. So, carefully craft what you want to communicate.

Actions:

• Define what expertise you want to profile
• Think about why someone would want to follow you on social media and build your brand
• Select articles, images, and other resources that convey your brand as relevant and informative
• Complete the Drake P3 self-assessment to identify your strengths.

6. Stay in Touch

Building an effective network is all about the quality of the relationship. So, it’s important to keep in touch with your network. In that sense, think quality of contacts over quantity. Keeping an active network takes time, planning, and effort to maintain the relationship.

With friendly rapport, when your contacts hear of job opportunities, they’ll think of you and be excited to help you.

While networking may seem like a lot of effort, it’s essential to build your professional network before you leave for Canada. With the right connections, you’ll be on your way to landing the right job in Canada and meeting exciting new people.

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

1. Have the right technology for your virtual interview

2. Minimize distractions

3. Ensure you have good lighting

4. Create the right setting

5. Pay attention to your attire

6. Prepare yourself for the interview

7. Conduct research for the virtual interview

Why are Virtual Interviews Common?

A virtual interview (or video interview) is common because it helps recruiters to reach a more diverse and global pool of applicants. It’s also a cost-effective way to screen job candidates. So if you’re searching for a job either from your home country or in Canada, you can expect to attend a virtual interview.

As with a face-to-face interview, it’s important to prepare for a video interview. However, in addition to researching, and preparing answers for common questions, you have to consider technical needs. For example, you need to ensure that you have the basic elements that include a:

– Computer with a built-in or external video camera

– Built-in microphone or headphones

– Reliable internet connection, and

– Suitable location to speak that is free from distractions.

When you consider these extra factors, you can expect to have a successful interview, secure a follow-up interview, and hopefully get the job offer you want! In addition, preparing for the technical aspects of a video interview will ensure that you remain calm before and during your interview. Attending a job interview can be stressful, and a virtual interview may require additional effort to improve your performance.

What is a Virtual Interview?

A virtual interview uses technology to allow for a remote discussion between you and the interviewer. Some common conferencing platforms include:

– Skype

– Zoom

– Google Hangouts

Video interviews are becoming more common as companies look to reduce costs, save time, and increase efficiency. As well, during COVID-19, it offers a way to limit physical contact. However, even when the pandemic is controlled, you can expect that video interviews are here to stay.

To improve the outcome of your interview, you need to prepare for common questions and consider the technical factors. And while there have been many enhancements to video conferencing, you need to prepare for potential issues. For example, during a video interview, you may experience a connection problem, communication delays, or video and audio quality issues. Hopefully, none of these issues occur, but it’s best to be prepared to deal with them.

Seven Tips for a Successful Virtual Interview

Knowing that your technology works well before the interview will give you more confidence. And, you won’t have to fumble during the interview if something does not work. You want to show that you’re confident in a virtual setting. When you prepare in advance, you’ll be able to focus on the conversation. These seven tips will contribute to your success.

1. Ensure You Have the Right Technology

Ensure your computer’s audio and camera work effectively before the interview. Check that your microphone is not set to mute and your camera is on. It’s also a good idea to use earphones instead of the microphone on your computer to improve the sound quality.

A sharp and clear video image will make you look both professional and presentable. If you have an older computer, you may want to consider buying an external webcam if the video image is poor. 

You also want to make sure that you have access to a good internet connection. However, as with any technology, there’s always a possibility that things won’t work. If you think you might have a problem, you may want to ask the interviewer for a telephone number if the video or audio stops working.  

It’s a good idea to test your equipment the day before the interview so that you have time to correct any issues.

2. Minimize Distractions

To improve your performance it’s important to be focused and present. To do this, select a location where background noise is limited. Before the video interview remember to:

– Turn off the TV

– Put your phone on mute

– Turn off any notifications on your computer

– Close windows to avoid honking horns or sirens in the background.

If you have children or pets, keep them out of sight and hearing range.

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3. Ensure There is Good Lighting for Your Video Interview

Proper lighting for your virtual interview can help you appear engaging and lively. You want to avoid your interview seeing just a dark shadow of your face on the screen. A good forward-facing light source will ensure that you are visible.

Also if the light is coming from behind you from a window or other light source it can create a harsh silhouette.

4. Create the Right Setting for Your Virtual Interview

It’s important to appear professional and that includes paying attention to your backdrop and location. Choose a location that is most like an office. It’s best to sit in front of a background that is simple and neutral. Make sure that the space is neat and organized.

Or, you may choose to use a virtual background if you can’t find a suitable space. You can find free virtual backgrounds for Zoom, Skype, and other video conferencing software.

5.  Pay Attention to Your Attire

Some people feel much more relaxed in online environments and that also applies to their dress code. However, it’s important to consider the first impression that you want to make. So dress for success and treat your online interview with the same respect that you would for a  face-to-face interview. 

It’s safer to err on the side of dressing more formally rather than too casual. Also, avoid wearing accessories and jewelry that might distract the interviewer. You want them to focus on your expertise. You can also consider the colour of your clothing. Some colours that work best on the camera include navy, light blue, grey, beige, and jewel tones. 

When you dress the part, you’ll feel polished and professional. And, this can give you an important boost in your virtual interview. How you feel can affect how you speak and sound. As well, your dress and speech convey helpful cues and clues to give a good visual impression to the interviewer.

Even in a virtual setting, you have to be aware of your personal brand. This is a great chance to show your future employer that you are digitally savvy, current, and professional. 

6. Prepare Yourself for Your Video Interview

Attending a job interview can create stress and anxiety for most people. There is often much at stake which contributes to being nervous. This is completely normal. Some people are very comfortable in a virtual environment, but if you need help to manage nerves pay attention to your body language. These are important things to remember:

– Show interest through your posture and body language

– Remember to smile. Smiling makes you appear confident and comfortable.

– Maintain eye contact with your interviewer. Look at your video camera rather than the screen.

– Speak clearly and slowly to ensure effective communication

– Prepare responses to common interview questions

– Prepare questions for the interviewer.

 7.  Conduct Research Before the Virtual Interview

As you would for a face-to-face interview, thorough research is key. To research any company, you can go directly to the company’s website. This will provide you with the most credible source of information. You can also scan the news for relevant information about the company. 

As you conduct your research, think of questions that will show your interest in the company and knowledge of the industry. Interviewers will give you a chance to ask questions during or at the end of your interview. And, well prepared and thoughtful questions show your passion for the role. 

You may want to ask the interviewer to describe the ideal candidate for the role. This answer will allow you to assess what skills you have that will contribute to your success in the role. In addition, the interviewer might identify an area or skill that you may not have discussed. This is a great chance to discuss that skill or strength and help them to assess your suitability for the role.   

Another helpful step is to research the interviewer. If the interviewer has a profile on LinkedIn, you can get a sense of their background and learn something about their professional background that you have in common. This can provide you with a sense of connection and build rapport during your interview. 

As virtual interviews become a common practice with employers, it’s a great chance to show your technical savvy, communication skills, and interest. With these tips, you can ensure that you will have a positive experience and improve your chances of getting the job offer.

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

If you’re moving to Canada, you’re likely thinking about how you can start your job search before you arrive. And that’s a very smart idea!

When n you start your job search before you arrive, you’ll improve your chances of landing a job in your chosen field.

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You can get ready to work in Canada well before you even arrive.  Researching the job market, and understanding what Canadian employers are searching for is vital.  At Prepare for Canada, we provide tools, resources, and information to help you get ready for your job search! Here are four activities that will help you to get ready to work in Canada.

1. Devote Time to Your Job Search

It takes effort to find a great job, so be sure to devote time to important job search activities. You may have to spend time revising your resume to include information that Canadian employers look for.

When you know what employers look for, you can tailor your resume so that employers notice your skills and experience. Preparing a well-written resume takes time, but it’s worth the effort because it may reduce the time it takes you to find a job. 

You will also have to apply for many jobs. One application will likely not be enough to get the job that you want in Canada. But, by applying for jobs on a frequent and regular basis, you’ll start to get responses from employers. It takes patience and focus to land a job that you are best suited for.

Join our free webinar to learn helpful strategies to accelerate your job search:

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2. Make Yourself Stand Out

This is easier said than done, but there are many great programs that are available to newcomers to help with job search activities to help you stand out. One way to stand out is to get your credentials assessed. This is helpful because it shows Canadian employers that you have the skills and knowledge to perform a similar job in Canada.  The Government of Canada can provide valuable information that explains how to get your credentials assessed. 

By taking this step, you can help to ensure that you can work in Canada. You may discover that you require more training to get ready to work in Canada. But when you know what’s required, you’ll be in a better position to get the training you need.

3. Be Responsive and Professional

Once you do start to hear back from potential employers, make sure to respond to them as quickly as you can.  This shows your interest and professionalism. Make sure that you put your best foot forward with each point of contact that you have with an employer.  Use formal language and provide any additional information that they may request.

 4. Stay Positive

You may have heard this tip often, but it’s always a good idea to stay positive and not get easily discouraged.  If you don’t hear back from your first few Canadian job applications, then just keep applying until you succeed.

When you’re positive, you’ll make a great first impression. A positive attitude combined with a strong skill set shows Canadian employers that you’re motivated, talented, and eager to start your first job in Canada.

When you follow these tips, you’ll be off to a great start to get ready to work in Canada even before you arrive.

For more 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!

Job interview success will require you to prepare with these essential tips. We know that job interviews can be exciting, but they can also cause stress. However, when you prepare for your interview it will increase your confidence, reduce your stress, and lead to a positive experience.

These eight tips will help you to prepare for a positive interview experience.

1. Know your strengths before your job interview in Canada

2. Know what’s required in your industry

3. Know what’s required in the job

4. Research the company

5. Prepare responses to common interview questions

6. Dress for success

7. Arrive on time and have extra copies of your resume

8. Take a deep breath

 

Essential Tips: Your First Job Interview in Canada

1. Know Your Strengths Before Your Job Interview in Canada

Focus on what strengths, skills, abilities, and experience you want to convey during your interview.  When you focus on your strengths, you’ll be positive and confident during your job interview. This will also help you especially if you feel nervous before your job interview.  Job interviews can be stressful, especially if you feel pressure to resume your career in Canada as soon as possible.

2. Know What’s Required in Your Industry

Knowledge is power when you interview for jobs in Canada. So you need to identify trends and changes within your industry. Factors like technology and globalization are contributing to rapid changes in most, if not all industries. So to be highly valuable in your chosen career, you need to know about: 

• Required credentials and designations you must have

• Related experience and education you must have 

• Knowledge of what’s changing in your industry.

Check out our Career Pathways resources to discover what’s required to work in Canada for more than 20 occupations in Canada. 

There are also many pre- and post-arrival settlement services that can help you to learn more about your industry in Canada. And some settlement agencies can provide you with one-to-one job counselling to prepare for job interviews.

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3. Know What’s Required in the Job

Read the job description again to make sure you understand the job requirements. A helpful activity to prepare for an interview is to make a list of job responsibilities. For each responsibility, list relevant examples when you performed that responsibility in a previous job.

This activity will help you to:

• Identify how closely your skills and background match the job description

• Define exactly what you did so that you can clearly discuss your experience

• Focus on the successful outcomes that you achieved.

The job description will also outline the important credentials that you require for the job. If you do not have the credentials that the employer is seeking, you can discuss if you have a plan to obtain those credentials. You may even be in the process of obtaining those credentials at the time of your interview. This will show initiative and drive on your part.

Prepare to discuss your accomplishments and sell yourself. Canadian employers want to know how you can contribute to their success.

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4. Research the Company Before Your Job Interview

This is an important step for several reasons. The recruiter will likely ask you what you know about the company.  So with proper research, you can prepare your answer, show interest in the company, and show your knowledge about:   

• The type of organization it is (public or private company, not-for-profit, start-up, etc.)

• Types of products or services they provide

• Interesting and relevant industry information related to the company

• What makes the company successful and why you want to work for the company.

You can use LinkedIn to learn about companies in Canada. LinkedIn is also helpful to develop and expand your professional network. Consider creating your LinkedIn profile if you don’t already have one. To learn how to set up a profile, and other helpful tips download our free 12 Tips For LinkedIn 

In addition, your research will help you to identify if this is the company that you would love to work at. In other words, does the company culture and do their values align with what is important to you? Factors that may be important to you might include if the company is recognized for being:

• Innovative

• Socially responsible

• Environmentally friendly

• An industry leader, or 

• An Employer of Choice.

5. Prepare Responses to Common Interview Questions

Most interviewers will ask questions about your experience, qualifications, and fit for the job. And here are some common questions that you can expect and prepare for in advance:

• Tell me about yourself?

Prepare for this question by providing a short and clear answer that describes your career path and why you have applied for this position. For essential insight about yourself, be sure to complete the Drake P3 personality assessment®. This free assessment will help you to define key areas of your personality that you would like to showcase. You’ll also gather more information that will be helpful to your job search in Canada.

• Why should we hire you?

Provide a clear picture of how your skills, experience, and personality match the job requirements. The more specific you can be, the easier it will be for the interviewer to assess if you are the right fit for the job. When you receive your Drake P3 assessment report, you can highlight how your strengths match the job requirements. Use the information from your report to prepare a concise answer to this question.

• Tell me about the best job you ever had, and what did you enjoy about it?

Here the interviewer is assessing your fit for the job. For example, do the elements that you most enjoyed in your best job exist in the job that you’re interviewing for? When you complete the Drake P3 assessment, you’ll gain a clear understanding of what you need in a job environment to be highly successful. You can complete this assessment for free right now! With this self-awareness, you’ll find the career joy that you’re seeking.

6. Dress for Success for Your Job Interview

Decide what you will wear to the interview.  You’ll feel more confident wearing a clean and neat outfit that fits properly. If you’re unsure if you should dress casually or formally, it’s best to dress in more formal attire. Dressing too casually may send the wrong message to the recruiter or hiring manager. It’s better to dress more formally and err on the side of caution so you don’t feel uncomfortable about how you’re dressed.

Most workplaces in Canada have a scent-free policy to protect people who have allergies. So avoid wearing perfume or cologne. This will also allow the interviewer to focus on your stellar qualifications and not be distracted by a strong scent. You also want to avoid wearing an overload of jewelry.  Again, you want the interviewer to focus on you and your solid responses.

https://www.prepareforcanada.com/before-you-arrive/working-in-canada-before-you-arrive/what-does-business-casual-dress-mean

7. Arrive on Time and Have Extra Copies of Your Resume

Nothing will be more stressful than arriving late for your interview. So give yourself enough time and aim to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before the interview. This will allow you time to mentally and physically prepare for the interview and calm any pre-interview jitters you may have. 

8. Take a Deep Breath Before Your Job Interview

Getting nervous before an interview is a common response. So it’s important to think of how you can manage that nervous energy before you go into your interview. One helpful strategy is to regulate your breathing. Before your interview take a few deep breaths and: 

• Inhale through your nose and count for four seconds

• Exhale through your mouth and count for four seconds

When you take deep breaths you send a message to your brain that will help you to relax. This will help you to stay focused and provide clear responses to interview questions.

When you follow these interview tips, hopefully, you will receive a job offer so that you can resume your career in Canada. However, even if you don’t get a job offer, you can be proud of your effort and consider this interview as an important practice for your next interview! All the experience that you get will only improve your interview skills and performance.

For more information about finding a job in Canada resource page for tools, resources, webinars, and more!