People who have recently moved to Canada and do not have a prior work history in the country may have difficulty finding employment, yet there are still a variety of job opportunities they can pursue.
The following jobs can generally be obtained without having previous experience in Canada.
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Customer service representative
This is a common entry-level job that does not require previous experience. Newcomers can work in various industries such as retail, telecommunications, and banking.
Food service worker
Newcomers can work in various roles in the food service industry, including as servers, cooks, and dishwashers.
Cleaner or janitor
This is a common entry-level job that does not require previous experience. Newcomers can work in various settings such as office buildings, schools, and hospitals.
Personal support worker
This job is in high demand in Canada and requires a certificate or diploma in personal support work.
Administrative assistant
This is an entry-level position that requires basic computer skills and can be found in a variety of industries.
Warehouse worker
This job requires physical labor and can be found in various industries such as retail, manufacturing, and logistics.
Sales associate
This is a common entry-level job that does not require previous experience. Newcomers can work in various industries such as retail and telecommunication
Delivery driver
This job requires a valid driver’s license and is a common entry-level job that does not require previous experience.
Caregiver
This job is in high demand and requires a certificate or diploma in personal support work.
Security guard
This job requires a security guard license but is a common entry-level job that does not require previous experience.
Construction worker
This job requires physical labor and does not require previous experience.
It is important for newcomers to Canada to be flexible and open to entry-level positions, as these types of jobs are often more accessible for those with no local experience.
Landing in jobs different from the previous role
It is not unusual for immigrants to Canada to take positions in fields that are not their area of expertise. This is because of the language barriers, the job market being different, and foreign credentials not being taken into consideration.
Therefore, a lot of newcomers looking for jobs in other fields while attempting to get employed in their preferred field or to get acknowledgment of their foreign credentials. This could be perceived as a hindrance in their career progression, but it may also be a way to succeed in finding job opportunities in Canada. This experience can also provide greater knowledge and understanding of life.
How Canada newcomers can increase their job prospects
Here are some tips for new immigrants to develop careers in Canada, particularly when working in fields different from their degrees
Acquire Canadian work experience
Recent arrivals to Canada can gain professional experience by utilizing a variety of methods such as connecting with people, volunteering, taking part in bridge programs, enhancing their skills, submitting applications for entry-level jobs, remaining flexible, and accessing the help of organizations that provide services to immigrants. Even though it may involve a lot of time and energy, having a determined attitude and maintaining a positive outlook could assist in surmounting difficulties and reaching objectives.
Expand job and career network
Canada’s new immigrants can build their job network in Canada by attending networking events, joining professional organizations, and utilizing personal and professional connections. Utilize online professional networks and seek support from immigrant-serving organizations. Building a strong network can lead to job opportunities and valuable connections in the Canadian job market.
Enhance language skills
Improving your language skills, especially in English or French, can help you communicate effectively in the workplace and increase your chances of finding work in your desired field. Seek language-learning resources such as online courses and language exchange programs. Consistent and dedicated practice is key to improving language skills.
Seek assistance from organizations
There are organizations that can help newcomers with their job search, including employment agencies and immigrant-serving organizations. Seek support from bridging programs that offer job search assistance, training, and sometimes job placements. Utilize networks and connections to increase job opportunities.
Here are a few of the organizations that specialize in job placement for new arrivals:
- Immigrant Services Society of BC
- SkillConnect
- Career Edge Organization
- JVS Toronto (Jewish Vocational Services)
- YMCA Newcomer Information Centre
- Immigrant Centre Manitoba
- Newcomers Canada
- Association for New Canadians
- Mosaic Newcomer Family Resource Network
- Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers
Consider further education or training for skill certifications
Pursuing further education or training in your field, or obtaining Canadian certifications or licenses, can help increase your chances of finding work in your desired field.
There are several organizations in Canada that offer training and certification programs to help new immigrants boost their job chances. Here are a few of them:
- Canadian Vocational Training Centre
- Learning Disabilities Association of Canada
- Career Colleges of Canada
- Canadian Institute of Management
- Canadian Society for Training and Development
- Association for Talent Development
- Canadian Association for Diversity and Inclusion
- Project Management Institute
- International Association of Administrative Professionals
- Human Resources Professionals Association
Be flexible
Be open to taking on new challenges and consider temporary or part-time work in order to gain experience and build your professional network.
flexible can greatly increase their chances of success. Here are a few examples of how new immigrants can be flexible when job hunting:
Job type
New immigrants may need to consider taking on part-time, contract, or seasonal work, even if it’s not their ideal job type, in order to gain Canadian work experience and build their resumes.
Industry
New immigrants may need to consider working in a different industry or sector than their previous experience, in order to gain Canadian work experience and demonstrate their skills and abilities to potential employers.
Location
New immigrants may need to consider working in a different location than their desired location, in order to increase job opportunities and gain Canadian work experience.
Salary
Recently arrived immigrants may need to take a reduced wage at the start in order to acquire experience in the Canadian job market and construct their CVs.
Demonstrating a capacity to adjust to different situations can open up additional job opportunities to recent immigrants. Remember that building a strong resume and acquiring Canadian job experience can provide greater job opportunities and a heightened chance of success in the future.
Stay positive
Job searching can be a challenging and stressful process, especially for new immigrants who are navigating a new country and culture. Here are a few tips to help new immigrants stay positive during the job search process:
- Set realistic goals: Set achievable goals for your job search, such as applying for a certain number of jobs each week, networking with a certain number of people, or attending a certain number of job fairs or events.
- Focus on the process, not just the outcome: Celebrate your accomplishments along the way, such as sending out your resume, attending a networking event, or landing an interview.
- Connect with others: Surround yourself with supportive people, including family, friends, and professional networks, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help when needed.
- Stay active and engaged: Participate in activities and events that you enjoy, such as volunteering, sports, or hobbies.
- Seek support: Reach out to immigrant-serving organizations, counseling services, or mental health professionals if you need additional support during the job search process.
Staying positive and taking care of your mental and emotional health can help you stay motivated and focused during the job search process, and increase your chances of success.
Newcomers to Canada can increase their job prospects by building a strong network, enhancing their language skills, gaining Canadian work experience, seeking assistance from organizations that specialize in job placement for newcomers, being flexible during the job search, and staying positive and motivated.
