Job Search
Job searching can be challenging, and it can take a lot of time to research and understand the job market, apply for jobs, and move through the job application process.
Job Search Banks
When using job search banks (e.g., Indeed, to find employment opportunities, refining your search can help you narrow down the results and find more relevant job postings.
Use Filters and Keywords | Most job search banks provide filters to narrow search results based on specific criteria. To refine your search, utilize filters such as location, job type (full-time, part-time, contract), salary range, experience level, and industry. Adjust these filters based on your preferences and requirements. |
Specify Location | If you have a specific location, enter the city, region, or postal code in the search field to narrow down job postings to that particular area. This is particularly useful if you want to focus your search on a specific city or region. |
Set Experience Level | Specify your preferred experience level, whether you're looking for entry-level, mid-level, or senior positions. This helps filter out job postings that may not align with your experience and qualifications. |
Sort by Date | Sort the search results by date to view the most recent job postings. This ensures you know the latest opportunities and allows you to apply promptly. |
Save Search Alerts | Many job search banks offer the option to set up email alerts or notifications for specific search criteria. By setting up search alerts, you can receive notifications when new job postings matching your search criteria are posted, keeping you updated on relevant opportunities. |
Refine Over Time | If your initial search doesn't yield the desired results, refine your search criteria based on the feedback you receive. Modify your keywords, adjust filters, or try different combinations to expand or narrow down your search as needed. |
Settlement Agencies
Settlement agencies, also known as immigrant settlement agencies or newcomer support organizations, are community-based organizations that provide assistance, resources, and support services to newcomers, immigrants, and refugees. Settlement agencies aim to facilitate the successful integration and settlement of individuals and families into their new communities and society. Settlement agencies can assist you with your job search process:
Career Counseling and Assessments: Settlement agencies offer career counselling services to help young professional newcomers identify their skills, interests, and career goals. They may administer assessments or tools to assess skills and aptitudes, providing valuable insights for career exploration and decision-making.
Resume/CV and Cover Letter Assistance: Settlement agencies provide guidance and support in crafting effective resumes, CVs, and cover letters tailored to the Canadian job market. They help immigrant professionals highlight their skills, qualifications, and relevant experience in a way that resonates with employers.
Job Search Workshops and Training: Settlement agencies offer workshops, seminars, and training sessions focused on job search strategies, networking, interview skills, and workplace culture in Canada. These programs equip immigrant professionals with the knowledge and tools to navigate the job market effectively.
Job Matching and Referrals: Settlement agencies may maintain connections with employers, industry associations, and professional networks. They may help immigrant professionals identify job opportunities that align with their skills and qualifications. Settlement agencies may also refer candidates to potential employers or job placement services.
Networking and Mentorship Programs: Settlement agencies facilitate networking opportunities and mentorship programs to help immigrant professionals connect with professionals in their fields. These programs provide valuable insights, advice, and support from experienced individuals who can guide them through the job search process and offer industry-specific knowledge.
Language and Communication Support: Settlement agencies offer language training programs to improve immigrant professionals' communication skills, including workplace-specific language and terminology. Enhanced language proficiency helps candidates communicate their qualifications and abilities effectively to potential employers.
Credential Evaluation and Recognition: Settlement agencies may provide information and assist in recognizing foreign credentials and qualifications. They help immigrant professionals assess their credentials, validate their qualifications, and understand any additional requirements for employment in their field.
Job Placement Services: Some settlement agencies offer job placement services, where they actively connect immigrant professionals with employers specifically seeking diverse talent. These services may include pre-screening candidates, matching skills with job requirements, and facilitating the interview process.
Industry-Specific Support: Settlement agencies often have specialized programs or staff members familiar with specific industries or professional sectors. They provide industry-specific advice, guidance, and support tailored to immigrant professionals’ unique needs and requirements in those fields.
Resources
The Immigrant Education Society (TIES)
Information Session
An information session that a prospective employee would set up is a meeting or conversation initiated by the job seeker with a representative or professional from a company or organization they are interested in. This can be beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, it provides an opportunity to gather specific information about the company or organization they are interested in, including its work culture, values, and projects. This insight allows them to assess whether their skills and qualifications align with the company's requirements and work environment.
Secondly, attending an information session allows you to establish connections and networks with professionals in their field. This networking can provide valuable contacts and potential mentors who can offer guidance and support throughout the job search process.
Furthermore, an information session can be an educational platform if you are unfamiliar with the local job market or industry practices. It allows you to learn about the current trends, qualifications, and expectations within the carer field in the specific region or country they are targeting.
Purpose | The purpose of the information session is for the prospective employee to gain insights into the company, its industry, and available job opportunities. It allows them to gather information beyond publicly available information and establish a personal connection with someone within the organization.' |
Contacting the Company | The job seeker researches and identifies a specific contact within the company who can provide the desired information. This can be a hiring manager, a member of the human resources department, or an employee in a relevant department. The job seeker contacts this individual via email or phone to request an information session. |
Requesting the Session | The job seeker sends a well-crafted email or makes a phone call expressing their interest in the company and the desire to learn more about its operations, culture, and potential job opportunities. The request should be polite, professional, and concise, clearly stating the purpose of the information session and the desired outcomes. |
Setting Up the Meeting | Once the company representative agrees to the information session, the job seeker and the representative mutually agree on the session's date, time, and format (in-person, phone, or virtual). |
Preparing for the Session | Before the session, the job seeker should thoroughly research the company and familiarize themselves with its products, services, recent news, and other relevant information. They should also prepare a list of questions or topics they would like to discuss during the session, focusing on areas that will give them a deeper understanding of the company and potential job opportunities. |
Conducting the Session | During the information session, the job seeker engages in an open and professional conversation with the representative. They ask relevant questions, actively listen to the responses, and seek clarification when needed. The job seeker should also be prepared to share their background, skills, and interests to help the representative provide tailored information and guidance. |
Follow-Up | After the information session, the job seeker sends a thank-you email to express appreciation for the representative's time and valuable insights. This helps maintain a positive impression and establishes the job seeker's interest in the company. |
Example: Aarav Patel, an engineer from India, who is interested in pursuing a career in the oil and gas industry contacts a senior engineer from a prominent oil and gas company to schedule an information schedule. During the session, Aarav engages in a conversation with the senior engineer to gather more insights about the company's operations, projects, and career opportunities. They discuss topics such as the company's exploration and production activities, technological advancements in the industry, environmental sustainability initiatives, and potential roles and responsibilities within the engineering department. The senior engineer also shares information about the company's hiring process, desired qualifications, and any specific training or certifications that are beneficial for aspiring engineers in the oil and gas sector. Aarav takes advantage of this opportunity to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the company's culture, work environment, and future prospects, ultimately using the information gathered to make informed decisions about their career path in the oil and gas industry.
Identifying the Right Job Title
Identifying the right job title is important in the job search process because it helps you to effectively target your search and align your skills and qualifications with the desired position. A specific job title allows you to tailor your resumes, cover letters, and applications to highlight relevant experiences and expertise, increasing your chances of getting noticed by employers. Additionally, a clear job title lets you focus on positions that match your career goals, ensuring they pursue opportunities that align with your interests and aspirations.
See The Seeker: By Profession for identifying the right job title under the “job search” section.
Avoiding Employment Scams
Fake online job ads are fraudulent postings created to deceive job seekers. They often appear on various online platforms, including job boards, social media, and classified websites. The primary purpose of fake job ads is to scam unsuspecting individuals by obtaining their personal information, financial details, or even money through fraud. Common characteristics of fake online job ads may include:
Non-existent Jobs: Fake job ads advertise positions that do not actually exist. They are created solely to lure and exploit job seekers for personal gain.
Unrealistic Salaries or Benefits: These ads often promise unusually high salaries, extravagant benefits, or quick, effortless ways to make money. Such offers are designed to attract job seekers with lucrative opportunities that are too good to be true.
Requests for Payment or Personal Information: Fake job ads may ask for upfront payments, processing fees, or personal and financial information such as social security numbers, bank account details, or copies of identification documents. Legitimate employers typically do not request such information during the initial application stage.
Poor Grammar and Spelling: Fake job ads are often poorly written, with grammatical errors, misspellings, or inconsistent formatting. This lack of professionalism can indicate that the ad is not genuine.
Vague Job Descriptions: Fraudulent job ads may have vague or generic job descriptions that lack specific details about the job responsibilities, requirements, or the company itself. Legitimate employers typically provide clear and comprehensive information about the position.
Pressure or Urgency: Fake job ads may create a sense of urgency, pressuring job seekers to act quickly without conducting proper research or verification. They often use phrases like "limited-time offer" or "immediate hiring" to rush applicants into making hasty decisions.
Unprofessional or Suspicious Email Addresses: Fake job ads may use free email providers (such as Gmail, Yahoo, or Hotmail) rather than professional email addresses associated with the company. Legitimate employers usually use official company email addresses.
Examples of Fake Online Job Ads
Example 1:
Job Title: Work from Home Data Entry Specialist - Earn $5,000 weekly!
Company: XYZ Global Solutions
Job Description: Are you tired of your 9-to-5 job? Want to earn thousands of dollars working from the comfort of your own home? We have the perfect opportunity for you! XYZ Global Solutions is hiring Data Entry Specialists to work remotely and earn a staggering $5,000 weekly—no experience required. Set your own hours and work at your own pace. Join our exclusive program today and start making money immediately!
Responsibilities:
Enter data accurately and efficiently into our state-of-the-art online system
Process and manage large volumes of information quickly
Work independently with minimal supervision
Meet daily and weekly data entry targets
Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent
Basic computer skills
Access to a computer with high-speed internet
Pay a one-time registration fee of $200 to get started (refundable upon completion of 90 days)
To apply, send your resume and contact information to xyzglobalsolutions@gmail.com. Limited positions available. Act now to secure your spot!
In this example, the fake job ad showcases several red flags. It promises an unrealistic earning potential of $5,000 per week without experience or qualifications. The job description is vague, lacking specific details about the company, job responsibilities, or industry. It also requires applicants to pay a registration fee upfront; a common tactic scammers use to extract money from unsuspecting job seekers.
Example 2:
Job Title: Executive Assistant
Company: Global Corporation
Location: Anywhere in the world
Salary: $10,000 per month
Job Description: Global Corporation seeks a highly skilled Executive Assistant to support our executive team. This is a work-from-home position with flexible hours. No experience necessary! Earn $10,000 per month guaranteed!
Responsibilities:
Manage the executive team's schedules and appointments
Coordinate travel arrangements and logistics
Prepare reports, presentations, and correspondence
Conduct research and gather information as needed
Handle confidential and sensitive information
Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent
Strong communication and organizational skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite
Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
Pay a one-time registration fee of $500 for training and administrative costs
To apply, visit our website at www.globalcorpjobs.com and complete the application form. Hurry, limited positions available!
Resources
This resource from the Government of Canada provides tips on being safe in your job search process.
This video from the University of Calgary provides information on how to identify job scams
YouTubeDiscrimination in the Hiring Process
Discrimination in the hiring process refers to the unfair treatment of job seekers based on race, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or other protected attributes rather than their qualifications and skills. To address discrimination as a job seeker, consider the following steps:
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with Alberta’s anti-discrimination laws. Understand the specific protections provided to job seekers based on your circumstances.
Document Everything: Keep records of your job application process, including emails, job postings, interview notes, and any interactions that you believe may be discriminatory.
Seek Legal Advice: If you believe you've been discriminated against, consult with an employment attorney or a local human rights agency to discuss your situation and determine if you have a valid case.
File a Complaint: If you have evidence of discrimination, consider filing a formal complaint with the appropriate government agency responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws. They can investigate your case and take action if necessary.
Use Neutral Information: When crafting your resume and cover letter, focus on qualifications, skills, and experiences relevant to the job. Avoid providing information about personal attributes that could lead to bias.
Network and Seek Referrals: Utilize your professional network and seek referrals from colleagues or mentors who can vouch for your qualifications and introduce you to potential employers.
Interview Preparation: Prepare thoroughly for interviews, emphasizing your skills and accomplishments. Anticipate questions about your qualifications and experiences to demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Ask for Feedback: If you are not selected for a job, consider requesting feedback from the employer about the reasons for their decision. This can help you understand if there were legitimate concerns or potential biases.
Report Discrimination Internally: If you experience discrimination during the hiring process at a specific company, consider reporting it to the company's HR department or management if you feel comfortable doing so.
Educate Employers: Some employers may not be aware of their discriminatory practices. Consider providing feedback and education to companies that engage in discriminatory behaviour, hoping to effect change.
Refer to “Your Rights in the Workplace” for more information on your labour rights and how to protect them.
Resources
Below are resources that can assist in your job search process:
The Immigrant Education Society
TIES’ employment programs are built to help job seekers develop the fundamental skills needed to enter the Canadian job market and keep up in an ever-changing economy.