Conquering The Canadian Job Market

PATH TO CAREER SUCCESS
Conquering the Canadian Job Market: 4 Networking Tips for International Job Seekers

Are you an international job seeker dreaming of making Canada your new professional home? Effective networking significantly boosts your chances of landing a job – and you don’t have to wait until you’re in Canada to do it. In this post, we'll explore practical strategies for networking in Canada from overseas.

1. Build a Strong LinkedIn Presence:
Craft a compelling LinkedIn profile showcasing skills and aspirations. Make sure you connect with Canadian recruiters and professionals in similar roles. You can further engage by commenting on posts and sharing content to highlight your expertise.

2. Use an Excel Sheet
Keeping track of your networking efforts is crucial, especially when reaching out to multiple professionals. Create a dedicated Excel sheet to document key details, such as names, positions, companies, and the date of your last interaction.

3. Craft Personalized Messages:
Avoid generic messages; tailor your communication and express genuine interest. It’s recommended that you reference details of LinkedIn profiles to show you have done your research. 

4. Be Consistent:
Maintain consistency in networking efforts. Set realistic weekly goals. Celebrate small victories and recognize networking as a gradual process that requires perseverance.

CAREER COACH Q & A
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Q: How do I begin networking in Canada from overseas?

A:  Great question! Here are some steps on how to begin networking in Canada from overseas:

• Start by researching your industry's professional organizations and joining relevant online forums.

• Utilize LinkedIn to connect with Canadian professionals, expressing genuine interest in their work. Attend virtual networking events and webinars to establish connections. 

• Craft a compelling online presence highlighting your skills and international experience.

• Be proactive in reaching out to professionals for informational interviews, seeking advice on the Canadian job market.

• Leverage social media and engage in conversations to build a network. 

• Adapt your resume to Canadian standards and consider volunteering or interning to gain local experience. 

Building a robust online presence and actively reaching out will enhance your chances of successful networking in Canada.

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Participate in our weekly poll for international job seekers navigating the Canadian job market. Sharing your insights on networking experiences will help us understand and address your challenges effectively.

LEADERSHIP LIBRARY
Elevate Your Career with Essential Wisdom

Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi

Do you want to get ahead in life? Climb the ladder to personal success?

The secret, master networker Keith Ferrazzi claims, is in reaching out to other people. As Ferrazzi discovered in early life, what distinguishes highly successful people from everyone else is the way they use the power of relationships—so that everyone wins.

WELCOME ABOARD
Newcomer Friendly Job Listings

• General Manager (Construction) - Hannon, ON

• Design and Drafting Technologist - Surrey, BC

• Hotel General Manager - Orillia, ON

• Web Developer - Calgary AB

• Physician Assistant - Halifax, NS

• Administrative Assistant - Rothesay, NB

  *all job postings available at time of email publication

LEARN THE LINGO
Writing Impactful LinkedIn Messages for Successful Online Networking

A common misconception for most international job seekers? That you have to wait until you’ve arrived in Canada to start networking! Thanks to platforms like LinkedIn, you can build connections from anywhere in the world.

Crafting effective connection request messages is a strategic approach to building your online network in Canada – and achieving the right tone is crucial. Here's our guide to help sharpen your communication skills for your LinkedIn networking!

Be Specific - Avoid Sounding Like Spam:

• ❌ "Hi, I'm [Your Name]. Let's connect and talk."

• ✅ "I'm [Your Name], a [Your Role/Field], passionate about [specific interest]. I noticed your expertise in [mention a specific area]."

• ✅ "I enjoyed your post on [mention a specific post]."

• ✅ "Your insights in [specific area] caught my attention. I'd love to connect and discuss further."
  

Highlight What You Can Offer - Don't Just Ask for Things:

• ❌ "Can you introduce me to [specific person or opportunity]? Let's connect."

• ❌ “I want a job.”

• ✅ "I believe connecting could lead to valuable insights and opportunities. I'd love to connect and share thoughts."

• ✅ "Would love to connect! I'm always open to exchanging ideas and insights in [common interest]."

• ✅ “I’d love to have you as a part of my professional network, so I can continue to engage with your content. 

🌟Example message:

Hi Sandra,

I'm Elly, a Marketing professional with an interest in innovative digital strategies.

I am impressed by your expertise in social media marketing, especially your recent successful campaign for [mention a specific campaign or project]. I’d love to have you as a part of my professional network, so I can continue to engage with your content. Looking forward to connecting!

💪PRO TIPS
1. Be Thoughtful About Your Connections

Ensure that your connection targets align with your goals. Are they working in your desired role? Are they industry thought leaders? Do they actively engage on LinkedIn? Quality connections matter more than quantity!

2. Be Concise
You are limited by the amount of characters you can use when you first reach out, so try to be clear and concise in your communication.

Happy networking!