Page 8 - CBW Handbook March 2019

Introduction

Job search methods are different from country to country. The way you look for a job may be different from what you are used to in your
country. For example, in some countries it may be very important for employers as to which University or College you graduated from
but in some other places you may get more credit for your past experience and work history. In some other places it may be just a matter
of knowing the right person and having the right contact. When people immigrate to Canada they may not be aware of the
importance of resumes and what role they can play in helping you to find a job. Volunteering is another thing that is very important in
Canada, but in some countries the idea of volunteering to find a job may not be a very common method.

In other words, in order to find a job it is very important to learn the local job search strategies as quickly as possible. Job search
methods should be planned and matched to the expectations of Canadian employers.

Below are some typical steps in finding employment:
• Researching labour market information
• Finding out if your profession is regulated or not and how to become licensed to practise a regulated profession in
Alberta
• If necessary, updating your skills and credentials
• Finding work to support yourself while re-establishing your career in Canada
• Networking and making connections in your field
• Creating a professional online profile
• Developing a Canadian-style resume and cover letter
• Ensuring that your occupation-specific language skills are at a high level
• Understanding Canadian workplace culture.

In Module One we will begin by assessing yourself in relation to the skills and qualifications needed for jobs in Canada and then
develop a resume master file.

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