Find a job: step by step

Step 1: Tools for preparing your application

You need

A NAS, a bank account, and in most cases, a Canadian address.

References

References are people who can confirm your experience and professionalism (former employers, colleagues, teachers, etc.). Employers contact them to verify your profile. In general, you should provide two or three names with their contact details. If you have experience abroad, this can also work, but local references are preferred, which is why volunteering is so important.

The resume

A resume (curriculum vitae) is a document that outlines your professional experience and skills.

Canadian resumes are brief (1 to 2 pages), concise, and tailored to each position. They should be neutral: no photographs, age, or marital status information. The focus is primarily on skills, accomplishments, and recent experience.

For complete information in French: https://pvtistes.net/dossiers/trouver-du-travail-au-canada/6/

The cover letter (or letter of motivation)

This letter accompanies your resume and explains why you want the job and what you can bring to the company. It should be short and effective, with three clear paragraphs:

1. Introduction: who I am.
2. Strengths: what I am worth and what I can contribute.
3. Objective: what I want and why I am interested in this position.

Verification of criminal records and other documents

Some jobs require official documents to verify your skills and ensure people's safety.

• Criminal record: many jobs may require you to provide this document.
• Food safety: in the catering industry, a food safety certificate is required.
• Other common requirements: jobs involving vulnerable people (such as children or the elderly) may require a criminal record check, first aid training, or responsible adult certification.
• To take these tests in French or learn more.

Step 2: Look for a job and go to interviews

Volunteering: a first step into the world of work

Volunteering is an excellent way to gain initial Canadian experience and obtain local references.

Volunteer Nanaimo offers many volunteer opportunities. Here at the Association des francophones de Nanaimo, we are sometimes looking for French-speaking volunteers.

Networking

In Canada, you can find work through word of mouth, so don't hesitate to participate in community activities.

Find a job

• WorkBC Nanaimo — A provincially funded public employment service, accessible free of charge to all residents, including newcomers. The website is in English, but the Nanaimo office offers support and services in French to help you find a job.
• The federal government (bilingual positions)
• The provincial government of British Columbia
• Indeed — Classified ad website for finding a job.

Job interviews

Interviews are often conducted in person or via videoconference. They aim to assess your skills and interpersonal skills. To prepare yourself well:

• Find out about the company and the position.
• Prepare concrete examples of your experience that are relevant to the position.
• Practice answering common questions (strengths, weaknesses, motivations, etc.). For more detailed advice on interviews in Canada.

Step 3: Once you start your job: Working in Canada

• A full-time work week is approximately 40 hours, and overtime is generally paid at a higher rate.
• Pay is issued every two weeks.
• Mandatory deductions apply to each paycheck:
  • income tax,
  • Canada Pension Plan (CPP),
  • Employment Insurance (EI).
  • The minimum hourly wage varies by province (in BC, it has been $17.40/hour since June 2024).
• Employees are entitled to at least two weeks of paid vacation per year, provincial holidays, and sick days, depending on the employer.
• In the event of dismissal, advance notice or severance pay is required depending on the length of employment.

Optional: get training and have your qualifications recognized

Certain professions require provincial accreditation in order to practice (health, education, engineering, etc.). Each province has its own rules, and a license obtained in one province is not necessarily valid in another.

Before applying, check whether your profession is affected and what steps are necessary, as practicing without the required accreditation is illegal.