These are the five most overwhelming challenges we see newcomers to Canada face when trying to find a job:
- Lack of Canadian Work Experience: Employers often prioritize candidates with local experience, making it difficult for newcomers to break into the job market.
- Limited Professional Network: Without established connections in Canada, accessing the hidden job market and getting referrals becomes a significant hurdle.
- Credential Recognition: Many newcomers face challenges in getting their foreign qualifications recognized, often requiring additional certification or education.
- Language Barriers: Non-native English or French speakers may struggle with communication, which can affect job interviews and workplace integration.
- Understanding the Job Market: Navigating job boards, understanding employer expectations, and adapting to Canadian resume and interview standards can be a hurdle.
Through education and effort, you can overcome these challenges and land your dream job in Canada. Read on to learn how.
Prefer to learn by video? Check out this webinar replay about finding a job in Canada.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=8ROpQgjLHM8%3Fenablejsapi%3D1%26origin%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fmoving2canada.com
How To Get A Job In Canada As A Newcomer
There are a number of moving parts when it comes to landing a job: first, you need to handle the practicalities of working in a new country, including your work authorization, Social Insurance Number, licensing within your profession (if relevant), and opening a bank account so you can receive your paycheck. Then, there are the cultural norms you need to adapt to if you want to land a job in Canada, and this comes down to your job application style, networking, and innovativeness and drive. Luck and timing come into play at this point too.
We’re going to focus on how you can improve your job application and focus your job search for the rest of this article.
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Prepare an Effective Canadian-Style Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume and cover letter are your first impressions—make them count! The Canadian job market prefers a concise, skills-based resume that highlights your relevant experience.
Actionable tips:
- Keep your resume to 2 pages max.
- Focus on skills and accomplishments instead of job duties.
- Tailor your resume for each job by aligning it with the job description.
- Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and company.
Pro tip: Use action verbs to describe your experience (e.g., “led,” “managed,” “developed”).
Be Selective
Quality is better than quantity when it comes to your job hunt in Canada in most professions. You will typically get better results from being selective in your search and submitting a very high quality job application than you would blanket bombing 30 companies with the same resume and cover letter.
Networking, cold calling, and informational interviews are much more effective ways to distribute your resume.
- Check out our guide on creating targeting job applications.
Use Job Search Websites Strategically
Canada has a variety of job boards, but to avoid overwhelm, focus on the ones that suit your field. Use these platforms to search for job postings and set up alerts to be notified of relevant positions.
Top job sites to explore:
- Indeed.ca
- Job Bank (official Canadian government site)
- LinkedIn Jobs
Pro tip: Many jobs receive a flood of applications, so being one of the first to apply gives you an edge. That said, you should prioritize a high quality application over being the first to apply.
Is your resume working hard enough?
Our resume guide will help you write an interview-winning resume!
Tailor Your Job Search: Research Companies You Want to Work For
Don’t limit yourself to job postings—research companies that interest you and reach out directly. Many employers hire before a job is even advertised, especially if you present yourself as a great fit.
Actionable tips:
- Identify key companies in your industry.
- Visit their websites and explore the careers section.
- Send a direct email to hiring managers, even if there are no open postings, to introduce yourself and highlight your value.
Pro tip: Show how your skills can solve a specific problem for the company—this can set you apart from other candidates.
- You can learn more about Canada’s hidden job market.
Tailor Your LinkedIn Profile to the Canadian Market
Your LinkedIn profile is crucial for professional visibility in Canada. Make sure it’s optimized to attract employers and reflect your readiness for the Canadian job market.
Actionable tips:
- Write a clear, engaging headline (e.g., “Marketing Specialist | Helping brands tell their story”).
- Use your summary to highlight your expertise and career goals.
- Engage actively by sharing relevant content and commenting on industry news.
Pro tip: Include a professional headshot—profiles with photos get significantly more views.
- You can learn more about using LinkedIn in Canada.
Track Your Job Applications
Job hunting can quickly become overwhelming, so keeping track of your applications is key to staying on top of follow-ups and deadlines.
Actionable tips:
- Create a simple spreadsheet to track applications, company names, job titles, and dates.
- Set reminders to follow up on applications after 1-2 weeks.
- Customize a template email for easy follow-ups. BUT make sure you don’t send the template email with inaccurate information. It won’t fill your potential employer with confidence that you have good attention to detail.
Pro tip: Timely follow-ups can demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and help you stand out.
Stay Persistent and Keep Learning
The Canadian job market can be competitive, but persistence pays off. Continue learning, upskilling, and building your network while you job hunt. Take online courses, attend webinars, and stay active in your industry.
Actionable tips:
- Join relevant associations or professional groups in your field.
- Update your skills through online courses (e.g., Coursera, LinkedIn Learning). Make sure to focus on skills that improve your employability and that they tell a story. Multiple unrelated courses may make your potential employer think twice.
- Stay positive and remind yourself that each application brings you closer to the right opportunity.
