Guide to the Canadian workplace salary negotiation

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PATH TO CAREER SUCCESS
Guide to the Canadian workplace salary negotiation

Negotiating a higher salary can feel unfamiliar, especially if it’s not common in your culture. For newcomers to Canada, learning to ask for a raise is an important skill. You might need a raise because you’ve taken on new responsibilities or if you consistently performed well in your role.

Here are a few tips from a guide by MoneySense that will help you approach the conversation with confidence:

• Give advance notice. Schedule a dedicated meeting and let your manager know you want to discuss compensation. Avoid bringing it up unexpectedly.

• Frame your request thoughtfully. Instead of directly asking for a raise, propose discussing your role and compensation with phrases like, "Can we explore what my role and compensation look like moving forward?"

• Understand stakeholders. Recognize that your manager is often a partner in advocating for your raise to HR or business leaders, not the sole decision-maker.

• Focus on the future. Highlight your achievements as a foundation for how you’ll contribute moving forward. Avoid framing your ask as a reward for past accomplishments.

• Provide evidence. Prepare measurable examples of your contributions, such as improved processes or increased revenue, and consider using a document or slide deck to present your case.

• Avoid ultimatums. Don’t lead with competing offers unless you’re prepared to leave, as it can harm trust or limit future opportunities at your current organization.

CAREER COACH Q & A

Q: What is the process for using networking connections to get a job?

A: In the latest episode of My Great Canada, Ramiz Essani—a newcomer who landed his job in just 53 days— breaks down the key stages of relationship building when networking on LinkedIn:

1. Find and connect. Start by identifying people in your industry. When reaching out on LinkedIn, send a personalized message focused on them—not on selling yourself or using generic, AI-generated text.

2. Build rapport. If they respond positively, consider inviting them for a coffee chat. If they agree, express genuine gratitude for their time. (If your budget allows, a small token like a 10$ gift card can make a thoughtful impression.)

3. Stay engaged. Maintain the connection by interacting with their content on LinkedIn or other platforms. Congratulate them on milestones or achievements through direct messages.

🎯 The goal is to create a meaningful relationship through multiple touchpoints. Over time, this person might think of you when opportunities arise—or you’ll feel comfortable enough to ask them directly about potential roles.

🎧 For more practical tips, check out the full episode, where Ramiz shares his journey to Canada.

Feature Sponsor

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WELCOME ABOARD
Newcomer Friendly Job Listings

• Construction Worker, Montréal, QC

• Truck Driver, Long Haul, Maple Ridge, BC

• Supply Chain Specialist - Procurement, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

• Hotel General Manager, Prince Albert, SK

• Web Developer, Edmonton, AB

• Software Engineer, Surrey, BC

• Physiotherapist, Bowmanville, ON

• Medical Radiation Technologist (MRT), Mississauga, ON

*all job postings available at time of email publication

LEARN THE LINGO
Phrases to influence people at work

Persuasion isn’t about pushing your ideas—it’s about understanding other people’s priorities and clearly explaining how your suggestion can make a positive impact. In Canada, where clear and respectful communication is highly valued, learning to persuade effectively is an essential skill for newcomers. To help you master this, check out these tips based on a guide from CNBC.

Lead with your bottom line
Start with your conclusion, request, or recommendation before providing supporting evidence.

❌ “As you know, we’ve been discussing the challenges with the timeline for the product launch. After reviewing the team’s feedback and analyzing the market trends, it seems like there could be some issues. We’ve looked at several options, and I think one idea might be to move the product launch date.”
✅ “I recommend moving the product launch to September to ensure we meet quality benchmarks and align with market trends. The three factors driving this are customer feedback, team readiness, and the competitive landscape.”

Speak with confidence and take ownership of your actions

❌ “I think we should…”
✅ “In my experience…”

❌ “I’m trying to…”
✅ “We’re implementing…”

❌ “We had to”
✅ We “decided to,” “chose to,” or “opted to.”

Remember to be thoughtful, not manipulative
Leverage your understanding of psychology and decision-making processes to present ideas effectively. Focus on clarity, relevance, and connection rather than tactics or games.

❌ “We’ve worked so hard on this project, and it would be unfair not to move forward with my idea. Don’t you agree that we owe it to ourselves?”
✅ “My proposal will streamline reporting, freeing up 20% of your team’s time for higher-priority tasks. Would you like me to outline the steps to get started?”