Valentina Volynkina: Finding Employment in Canada

Newcomers to Canada have to deal with some challenges before they can find their niche in the new society. These challenges can have serious psychological and physical influence on new Canadians and their families. In my opinion there are two main obstacles in the way of finding employment in Canada.

The lack work experience in Canada is one of the most serious obstacles for newcomers. In spite of the huge experience which newcomers had gained in their home countries, it is practically impossible to find a job because they don’t have Canadian work references. It can be acquaintance reference when a person who held a good position and knows your skills, your behavior and character can give you good reference. Also, it might be friendly reference when a person, who can give you reference, has friendship or relationship with the employer. Furthermore, statistic show that 85% job market in Canada is hidden. Therefore jobs offer without advertisement, and only employers, managers or supervisors have information about them; it is big problem to find a job for newcomers without networking in this country.

 

Language is the second great challenge that newcomers face in Canada. Knowing the language is key for social integration. It is very important to communicate with other people: neighbors, classmates, club members and etc. in order to feel themselves part of the community and society of Canada for rapid adaptation. On the other hand, newcomers can have problems to use available services and education system without English or French. Furthermore, they need to build new relationship and friendship because many newcomers don’t have friends or even family in Canada and it is not always possible to contact with people from their own ethnic background. Moreover, not knowing English or French in Canada can be obstacles for economic integration. Newcomers need to get attached to the labor market and to become work ready by Canadian standards. For instance, they have to learn how to write resume or be successful in an employment interview.

In conclusion, majority of newcomers who try to get a job in Canada, have difficulties with finding employment. Firstly, they have to solve problems related to obtaining Canadian work experience by volunteering, bridging programs, internship and etc. And secondly, they need to improve their language’s skills in order to integrate into Canadian society as soon as possible.