🇨🇦 Canadian Job Interviews: 6 Questions You Shouldn’t Answer!

PATH TO CAREER SUCCESS
Interview Questions You Can’t Ask in Canada

You will most likely give countless Canadian job interviews before securing a job, and it’s vital to know what kinds of questions you may be asked. What’s equally important, though, is knowing when NOT to answer questions — especially questions that may lead to discrimination in the hiring process.

Here is a list of questions you shouldn’t answer:

1. Questions About Age
In Canada, inquiries about age or birth date are illegal due to their potential to lead to age discrimination. Politely redirect the conversation to your qualifications and experience.

Response: "Let's just say I've gained a wealth of experience. I’m focused on discussing how my skills and experience align with the requirements of the role."

2. Marital or Family Status
Queries about marital status or family plans are off-limits. Emphasize your commitment to your career and ability to fulfill job responsibilities effectively.

Response: "My complete focus is demonstrating how I can contribute to the team and meet the demands of the role."

3. Health and Disability
Employers cannot ask about health or disabilities. Assert your qualifications and reassure them of your ability to perform the required duties.

Response: "I’m confident in my ability to excel in this role and fulfill all job responsibilities."

4. Religion and Beliefs
Questions about religion or beliefs are not permissible. Redirect by emphasizing your qualifications and commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Response: "I’m passionate about contributing to a diverse and inclusive work environment."

5. Nationality or Ethnicity
Inquiries about nationality or ethnicity are prohibited. Focus on discussing your skills, experiences, and contributions to previous roles.

Response: "I’m excited about the opportunity to leverage my experience and skills to contribute to the success of your team."

6. Salary History
Questions about salary history are illegal in many provinces. Decline politely and express interest in discussing salary based on qualifications and market standards.

Response: "I prefer to focus on the value I can bring to the role and discuss salary expectations based on responsibilities and market standards."

CAREER COACH Q & A
Navigating New Horizons with Expert Guidance from a Seasoned Career Coach

Q: What should I wear to a job interview in Canada?

A: For in-person job interviews in Canada:

• Opt for professional attire such as a suit or business casual attire, depending on the industry and company culture. 

• Choose conservative colors and well-fitted clothing to convey professionalism and confidence. 

• Ensure your outfit is neat, clean, and appropriate for the position you're applying for. 

A: For online interviews:

• Dress professionally from head to toe, as you may need to stand up or move during the interview. 

• Avoid loud patterns or distracting accessories that could detract from your communication.

• Dressing appropriately shows respect for the opportunity and reflects your readiness for the role.

SPONSORED BY OH CANADA

Canada is a vast and diverse country with a second-largest world landmass, offering a mix of landscapes from mountains to prairies. Known for its multicultural society, Canada is inclusive and welcoming. Vibrant cities are hubs of culture and innovation, while remote areas highlight untamed wilderness. The nation's commitment to diversity is reflected in policies, making it a tolerant place for newcomers. From the Arctic tundra to the Pacific coastline, Canada's size and variety make it a country of endless exploration.

Oh Canada is a weekly newsletter designed to help newcomers explore everything Canada has to offer, from culture, cuisine, and travel. Get exclusive offers to help you discover Canada.

LEADERSHIP LIBRARY
Elevate Your Career with Essential Wisdom

Exactly What to Say: The Magic Words for Influence and Impact by Phil M. Jones

Often the decision between a customer choosing you over someone like you is your ability to know exactly what to say, when to say it, and how to make it count. Phil M. Jones has trained more than two million people across five continents and over fifty countries in the lost art of spoken communication. In Exactly What to Say, he delivers the tactics you need to get more of what you want.

WELCOME ABOARD
Newcomer Friendly Job Listings

• Computer Programmer Brampton, ON

• Construction General Manager Mississauga, ON

• Human Resources Officer Lower Coverdale, NB

• Carpenter Leduc, AB

• Family Physician Calgary, AB

• Hotel General Manager Richmond, BC

• Mechanical Engineer Thornhill, ON

• all job postings available at time of email publication

LEARN THE LINGO
✅ Use Job Interview Prep to Boost Your English Vocabulary

Giving an interview in a new language can be a challenge. On top of wanting to come across as confident and capable, you’re also worried you may stumble on a word or forget it altogether!

But here's the good news – preparing for job interviews presents a unique language-learning opportunity. Why? Because it provides a structured context for study. You can learn commonly used phrases and vocabulary in an interview, understand where to use them appropriately, and practice pronunciation and intonation.

To get you started, let's explore some interesting English vocabulary you might use to describe yourself during an interview:

On the ball ⚽: Someone who is alert, efficient, and organized.

✅ “As a project manager, it's crucial to be on the ball and anticipate potential issues before they arise.”

Hit the ground running 🏃‍♂️📈: To start a new task or job with maximum effort and efficiency.

✅“With my background in marketing, I'm confident I can hit the ground running and contribute to your team's success from day one.”

Go the extra mile 🏃‍♂️🌟: To make an additional effort or go beyond what is expected.

✅“I'm always willing to go the extra mile to deliver exceptional results, whether it's staying late to finalize a project or providing additional support to my colleagues.”

Think outside the box 📦💡: To use creative or unconventional thinking to solve problems.

✅“My ability to think outside the box has led to innovative solutions and improvements in various projects throughout my career.”

If you'd like to hear the pronunciation of each of these vocabulary words, you can try ToPhonetics.

What other vocabulary could you review to help you feel more confident in your interview?

Are you studying for your IELTS exam? Check out SkilledWorker’s FREE trial of our Full IELTS Online Course.