How to increase your chances of getting a job? Be well-informed!
When it comes to breaking into the Manitoba job market, information is power. Here are the first six steps to take to become the best candidate in your field:
Research the labour market
The Manitoba Labour Market and Mobility Information or Manitoba Labour Market Occupational Forecasts 2017-2023 will help you discover the prospects in your field (or a related field if you’re thinking of shifting careers) so you can explore your options and plan your next steps.
Know your National Occupation Classification (NOC) code
You’ll have to know what your job is called in Canada to be able to conduct an effective job search. The NOC code provides you with a clear description of your job title, job duties and employment requirements. Go to the Labour Market Information Division website, choose Resources Resources or Tools of interest or enter your 4-digit NOC code in the dedicated area (usually provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) or your previous job title. You can also use the tool at Canada Job Bank to find out your NOC code, if your job is regulated, the standard wages, as well as the education and job requirements.
Find out if you need credential assessment or licensing
While most jobs in Canada are non-regulated (meaning you could work without having to get a license), some professions and most trades are regulated to protect public health and safety. Each regulated profession or trade has specific requirements. You can check it out on the “Professions” page of the Immigrate Manitoba website. You can also read 5 Steps to Credential Assessment and Licensing on this site.
Know your options for further education/training
The Manitoba government offers many educational and career programs to help you integrate smoothly into the workforce. Aside from language training, there are courses on essential skills development. A good move is to consult a career counsellor to help you draft a personal learning plan. Ask for assistance at any Manitoba Skills and Development Centre, Workplace Education Manitoba centres, an immigrant centre (see community links below) or at Manitoba Start. If you are interested in the skilled trades, you can explore apprenticeship opportunities where you can earn while you learn. You can also learn more about Employment Manitoba’s Professional Immigrant Pilot Project (PIP) which assists skilled and professional newcomers entering their field of expertise in the Canadian labour market.
Take advantage of language courses
Handling information is easier when you have good language skills. You can start improving your communication skills, even before coming to Canada (or shortly after you arrive). There are many language courses offered for free to immigrants. There are even online classes you can take in your spare time. You can get information at English Online for flexible and self-directed English lessons. If you’re already in Manitoba, you can have your language assessed at WELARC (Winnipeg), Westman Immigrant Centre (Brandon) or SEELS (Steinbach). They will refer you to the proper language centres for the right courses that you need.
Improve your soft skills
Canadian workplaces value essential or soft skills, sometimes even more than your technical know-how or credentials. These skills, such as interpersonal communications, flexibility and initiative, are sought after because they are strong indicators that you will fit in well with others in the company. Read the article Soft skills: The key to getting and staying employed to know more about the soft skills valued in the Canadian workplace.
Community Resources
Download the workbook Planning to work in Manitoba, Canada? An essential workbook for newcomers to guide you on your new journey.
Check out Immigrant Centre Manitoba’s services and trainings for you. You can also look for other training and employment assistance from Immigrant Serving Organizations in this list.
Continue improving your English communication skills through the many free programs available to immigrants in Manitoba. Check out this list: Language training programs in Manitoba