How To Find A Job In Canada

When contemplating how to find a job in Canada, the internet can be a valuable resource, especially for those not yet in Canada or for searching for jobs before moving to an area in Canada. If already in the target region, local newspapers and job market catalogs can also be useful, as well as the traditional method of approaching companies and asking if they are hiring at the moment.

1. Begin by identifying the target region. This could be a city or neighboring cities in Canada. If not already living in that target city or cities, long-distance resources will need to be utilized. If living in the target region, there are more options for job search in Canada.
2. For someone living in the target region, begin purchasing the local major newspaper. This could be done daily, but at least on Sundays which is when the largest amount of jobs are usually listed. Review the classifieds of the local newspaper at least once a week to check for possible jobs in Canada.
3. For someone living outside of the target region, searching for jobs in Canada requires a little more effort. Begin with internet searches for "jobs in Canada", "Canada jobs", or variations of these with the target city or cities included. Begin by making a list of all potential jobs to contact about employment.
4. Major job sites often have Canadian versions, such as Monster and CareerBuilder. These could also be consulted, allowing the searcher to refine the search and location criteria.
5. Compose a resume that targets the specific jobs in Canada desired. This means, in the "objective" section, it can be helpful to change the objective from something general to something specific and unique for each potential employer the resume is given to. Have an electronic copy available to email or attach to online applications, as well as hard copies to mail out if needed.
6. If searching for jobs in Canada but not a Canadian resident, a work visa may be required. Consult the local Canadian Embassy to determine if a work visa will be needed, and if so, begin the application process. Some jobs will assist in obtaining a work visa for new employees if the employee is highly desirable to the company, but this should not be thought of as something that happens with all employees. Many companies will look upon a potential employee more favorably if the work visa is already in hand or underway.
7. Consult the website of businesses in the target region in Canada to see if they have a careers or jobs page. Many large businesses have such a section in which they provide a list of currently available jobs, the application process or form, and contact information.
8. If the applications for jobs in Canada are online, fill out the necessary forms, attaching the electronic copy of a resume if possible. Remember to make the objective unique to that potential employer, and not to confuse resumes with applications. It could be harmful to the hiring process if the resume with an objective naming a competing business is attached to the wrong application form. For those that do not have online application forms, contact the human resources departments, or other listed points of contact, and learn what is needed for an application to the open job. Mail out resumes and applications, be sure to send Certified so that there is a record of the company receiving it.  Do not send the application and resume by a mailing method that requires a signature as this may slow the process or simply end up being returned to sender.
9. Once the applications have been submitted, give the companies at least a week before calling to check on the application status. After the initial week, contact each business and check on the application status. It can be helpful to check once or twice a week after that. To assist in keeping track, keep a list of who the applications and resumes went out to, and whenever the status is checked. This will also help avoid becoming a nuisance to the potential employer.