Bracing for a Head-start in Canada

Syeda Manisa Kabir, Employment Specialist, Master in Industrial Relations and Human Resources, University of Toronto:
Often I’m asked this one question, from the international students or new immigrants in Canada, what is this one secret to get a job as a newcomer? And after spending a few years in Toronto, working as an Employment Counsellor under the Canadian government, I can only say, there is no one little secret. However, there is a recipe followed by a few steps, that one can be used to move towards this direction.
There is a saying,” Hard work beats talent, when Talent fails to work hard”, its one of my favorite quotes as I truly believe in it. It basically says, there is no shortcut to success and the same applies when you are new in Canada with no Canadian experience. Ofcourse, it’s a big step uprooting your whole life from your hometown, leaving behind your family and friends, your favourite café, your cozy bed and moving towards a new uncertainty. There will be millions of question and concerns running in your mind. But the good thing is, you can always plan for it and move towards it strategically.
At the very beginning of this step, you need to create an open mindset where you come to an understanding with yourself that, “I have made this decision, and I will embrace it with an open mind”, and trust me, that little talk with your own self really helps. And once you come to peace with yourself, get all the chaos out of your head and start thinking straight. Which industry have you been working in your career? Are you planning to move towards a different sector? Are you planning to stay within the same industry? Does your current company have any affiliation with any Canadian branch?
Once you have that answer, start “Networking”. This is the key to be successful in your career in this part of the world. You might not be used to it, you might think where should I start? Whom do I approach? What should I ask? You can start networking before leaving your country. I have had clients from Bangladesh, who asked me, how do I approach a stranger? Isn’t it weird? Will they mind? The answer, is, No. You will be amazed to see, how wonderful and helpful people are in Canada, especially in Toronto. You can start networking even before you land in Canada. Make the best use of Linkedin. Also, lately they changed so many features which helps you to connect with the industry leaders, professionals in your sector, alumnis from the school you will be attending (if you are starting school) and so on. Always ask insightful questions. Never send your resume in the first message. And try to cherish the connection, rather than asking for a job. Instead, try to gain their perception and suggestions. I’m sure you will be pleasantly surprised; how much people have to offer! And once you land in Canada, start scheduling informational meetings with recruiter, industry professionals and people who might help you to find a job. Referrals work the best, over any online applications. If you’re looking for a job in a specific field, take an excel sheet and make a list of 30 companies where you’d like to work and start targeting them individually. You can go to their website and see if they are hiring or connect with the employees of those companies and invite them for coffee meetings or informational phone meetings. You can also take help of recruiting agencies where they do placements with these companies. Apart from that, there are various programs and services offered by Canadian government for newcomers to help their transition process. You can access those services as well.
Being an international student, I can absolutely understand, how hard it may seem as I went through the exact same process. However, by being focused, determined and open-minded helped me to come where I am today. Ofcourse, I also believe, luck is an important factor too along with your parents’ blessings, which has no comparison. So, just keep these factors in mind and brace yourself for the upcoming journey!