top of page

Networking: an essential practice for getting a job in Canada

Updated: Oct 21, 2023

No matter who you are–a student, new to the workforce, an established professional seeking a new position, or a newcomer to Canada–finding a job can be difficult. Most job seekers face a myriad of challenges, from time pressure and lack of clear direction, to lacking a network and feeling stuck. Certain groups also have unique challenges, such as students, who are currently having a particularly difficult time finding employment, as well as newcomers.

If you’re in the midst of the often-painful process of job hunting, you’re not alone: half of Canadian workers have planned to look for a new job this year. So, how can you set yourself apart from the competition?


How to find a job

You’ve likely already taken the first step of searching job boards, but there are so many options out there that it can be difficult to know where to focus your time and effort. Large well-known job boards such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and Monster, tend to feature many opportunities and are certainly worth keeping an eye on. Don’t forget to take advantage of government resources, too. Employment centres are located all over Canada and provide personalized job searching assistance and over a million jobs in the private and public sectors are posted on the government’s Job Bank every year. WorkBC provides a range of supports for local job seekers and also maintains a list of B.C. job postings.

Not all employers use these resources - you may find additional opportunities directly on company websites. Look for a link that says Careers at the bottom of the homepage or in the navigation menu. However, some opportunities are not listed on any job board whatsoever; to learn about and apply for these positions, job seekers must access the hidden job market.


How (and why!) to build a professional network

Building and maintaining a professional network is an essential component of your career for a variety of reasons; for instance, having a strong network can help you get noticed by others in your field, find support from more experienced professionals, and boost your self-confidence. Networking can also be an effective way to learn about jobs that are not advertised on publicly-accessible platforms.


Two women smiling as one of them shakes hands with a man
Image Credit: JumpStory

While the idea of growing your network may be daunting, there are many different ways to build relationships with other professionals. Consider starting with one that suits your strengths and comfort level. One strategy is to ask people already in your network for introductions to other professionals working in fields or at companies that interest you and invite them for a coffee chat to learn more about their field and potential opportunities that may be relevant to your goals and experience. If you prefer to meet in small groups as opposed to one-on-one, seek out networking events in your area to connect with like-minded professionals. For readers in Vancouver, Thrive offers a variety of events to facilitate networking among professionals in a range of fields.

Anyone can follow these steps to search for a job and build their professional network. However, if you’re new to Canada, you may find yourself facing additional hurdles in your job search.


Tips for newcomers to Canada

Seeking work as a newcomer to Canada comes with unique challenges, according to the Panel on Employment Challenges of New Canadians, such as difficulty obtaining Canadian experience, lack of social and cultural networks, cultural adaptation challenges, and more. Expectations in terms of job application requirements in Canada may differ when compared to other countries - check out our tips for writing successful cover letters to maximize the efficacy of your applications.

If you’re struggling to find employment as a newcomer, consider connecting with an organization that specializes in supporting newcomers to Canada in their job search.

Canada-wide employment resources for newcomers

Employment resources for newcomers to British Columbia

If you’re located in British Columbia, check out the following organizations, which provide a range of employment-related support to newcomers:

  • ISS of BC: settlement support, career and employment programs, English classes, and refugee services

  • MOSAIC: settlement and employment services for newcomers

  • SUCCESS: diverse, inclusive, and multi-service agency that assists people in all stages of their lives in Canada

  • WorkBC: helps all British Columbians successfully navigate B.C.'s labour market


Comments

bottom of page