Employment

I was a Human Resources Manager in my home country. Before coming to Canada, I did comprehensive research about life, work, and careers in Canada. I worked on my English language skills to be prepared for the new life. I advanced my English language level by watching movies and listening to English TV and radio programs, which helped me a lot. Before coming to Canada, I had my university degree evaluated for Canadian equivalency by World Education Services “WES” for credential evaluation.

During my research, I learned about an amazing not-for-profit organization, “Career Edge”, that supports experienced individuals bridging their international experience, through paid internship programs, and connecting them with top employers like banks, government sector, telecommunication companies and more. I registered with “Career Edge” and was able to get my six months paid internship at Ontario Public Service “OPS”. This opportunity got “my foot in the door” and gave me the first step into my career in Canada. I had to work hard to network and build connections. I volunteered in many initiatives and events for United Way and Federated Health to get involved with staff and managers. As a result, some of the managers were willing to give me the opportunity to work and provided job contracts.

Before getting the internship, I searched for a job for about six months. “Searching for a job is a full-time job.” This is a very true statement. I attended many newcomers’ courses on how to write a resume, how to search for jobs, how to prepare for interviews, etc. I worked tirelessly to find a job, applied for many job advertisings, registered in many job search websites, and volunteered to familiarize myself with the Canadian workplace culture. This is something that you need to “personally experience” and get yourself familiar with, not something that you can “learn” or “read” about. It is more about etiquette and culture, which honestly helped me a lot.

After six months and many trials, I was able to get my first two month contract. I remember walking into the recruiting agency, asking why I had not heard from them, considering it had been a long time since I registered. Surprisingly, the lady said: “I have a small job, can you do some scanning and copying for only two months?” I was ready for that and immediately accepted. I went to the interview the same day and started my job the next day. I had to work evening shifts in January, 3:00pm – 12:00am! I liked the company and the staff I worked with, and they liked me. I was always willing to accept any required work and had the "I can do it” attitude. My manager extended my contract for ten months and was even ready to extend it for another full year, but I had to leave, as I was offered the internship opportunity with OPS.

It takes a lot of time and effort to get a job, but you need to be patient. Immigration is a huge decision to make, and you go through many tough situations. If you keep up your great spirit and positive attitude, you will definitely find the job you aim for. Be positive, work hard, accept small jobs, short assignments, because you really never know what this will lead to! It could lead you to a great job, great connections, great experience, or great learning.