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Networking

Many newcomers may not make full use of networking. In your home country, perhaps you have to follow a totally different procedure than that in Canada when looking for a job. In Canada, in most cases, people whom you are acquainted with are very important to you when you’re looking for work.

Networking means that you are constructing a network of people who can assist you during your job hunting. In some cases, that means people who can give useful suggestions about your job search, or offer more information about a company, etc. But, here in this sense, our concentration is on creating a network of other people who have similar jobs or work in the department where you want to join.

As you’re doing your job market research and information interviews, you may encounter associations, organizations and individuals who are able to help link you to others in your area of interest. In some regions, formal groups are set up to network. They share resources and information with each other and meet on a regular basis. If you can find out such a group related to your work in your territory, it is suggested that you join them right away.

You can make your personal contacts through community volunteer work, cooperative education, taking a training program, going to an ethno-specific organization, joining a club, social activities, etc.

In some cases, you will find ethno-specific groups that meet to support each other and share collective information. If there exists one for your cultural background, it would be a great idea to join them, as the group members have similar experiences to yourself. They know exactly what your difficulties are as a newcomer to Canada and they’re willing to help you.

Successful networking or information interviews can help you go into the hidden job market. The hidden job market means the jobs that are available but are not being advertised in conventional ways (i.e. newspaper, magazines, online job banks, etc.). Sometimes, employers will directly ask their subordinates if they know anyone who is suitable for the job, rather than put out an advertisement. If you have interviewed someone or have made an impression through your networking, perhaps you’ll be contacted about that job.