Gaining Work Experience as a Newcomer
Often job searching can feel like a Catch-22. A job posting wants you to have experience doing that role, but you can’t get experience doing it until someone gives you a job! It can be hard to understand how anyone has any job when the system works like this. Luckily, there are a few ways to gain Canadian work experience that can be used on your resume to land you the job you want.
Volunteer:
Check out volunteering options in the career field you’re interested in working in. This is a great way to learn more about the career, the work culture in Canada and to get to know people in the field. It will also give you experience working in a position similar to what you are hoping to work in as well as working in Canada in general.
If there are not volunteer options in your field of choice, don’t fret. Find a volunteer role in anything that may interest you. You will still gain experience and hopefully get to spend time doing what you enjoy. This shows future employers that you have hobbies and that you are willing to spend your time helping others and learning more about different job types in your new city.
Part Time Jobs:
If your schedule allows it, getting a part time job in food service or at a clothing store is a great way to gain experience as well as increase your English skills if needed. You may not learn skills specific to your career choice, but you will learn how Canadian businesses are run, how payroll and scheduling works as well as many other soft and transferable skills. This job will get you paid work experience in Canada that you can put on your resume and help you meet people and become a part of your new community.
Network Online and In Person:
Find a Facebook group or website with people in the career you are looking for. They will shed light on what the job is like in Canada and what experience you really need. There may be events you can go to meet people and become part of the field’s community. It’s also a great way to meet people with shared experiences.
Do It Yourself:
There are a lot of careers out there which you can gain experience for without having someone hire you. If you are looking to do something creative, create it. Write, paint, design whatever you can in your spare time. If it is applicable put it online for people to see and maybe comment on. This not only gets you a fuller portfolio to show potential employers, but also shows your enthusiasm and willingness to learn and grow in whatever way possible.
Regardless of whatever experience you gain while you work towards your career, remember this choice is not a life sentence. If you find yourself not enjoying the work, it may be time to put some thought into a career change. But remember, even if you aren’t enjoying what you do, don’t drop it immediately. Give appropriate notice or finish the contract that you are on. How or why you left a job tells future employers about your level of respect and disposition to follow through on your commitments.
We have great volunteer, part time, and full-time jobs on Newcomersjobs Canada to help you gain experience in your field-check them out now!
Your Team at NewcomersjobsCanada
#newcomersjobscanada #followforfollow #canadanewcomers #canada #canadajobs #workincanada #jobsincanada #jobs