By Olivia Bauer
What are Canadian employers looking for? This was the question Rita had on her mind when she visited Manitoba Start to find out how to get a job in Winnipeg.
Rita had arrived from India three months earlier where she had been a manager at a textile company. She was interested in working in hospitality or sales and went to Manitoba Start for support in developing her career plan and professional goals.
In 2014, the Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers (CACEE) surveyed employers and recruiters to find out what employers want (CACEE 2014 Campus Recruitment and Benchmark Survey). Rita’s career coach shared some information from the survey during an employment preparation workshop.
Employers Emphasize Soft Skills
Employers want to hire people who work hard, communicate well with others, and identify solutions. According to CACEE (2014), the five soft skills employers prefer most are:
1.Problem-solving skills
2.Communication skills (written and verbal)
3.Teamwork skills
4.Analytical abilities
5.Strong work ethic
Rita was glad to hear this. She was a hard worker and had great interpersonal skills. However, she wanted to improve her language skills and signed up for English classes.
Employers Highlight Digital Technology Skills
Employers are looking for hires who have good computer skills. More and more, recruiters use digital technologies to find new skilled talent. LinkedIn is one of the main platforms Canadian employers use to advertise new job opportunities. Recruiters are also more likely to consider job applications when the resume and cover letter are tailored to the specific job requirements the organization has posted.
After the workshop, Rita created a LinkedIn account where she listed her skills, work experience, and education. She also signed up for the free Microsoft Office refresher course offered at Manitoba Start to improve her computer knowledge and keyboarding speed.
Employers Value Experience
According to CACEE, on average, employers are looking for 1.5–2 years of work experience for entry-level positions. Work experience is often a stronger consideration than academic credentials for many employers.
To build Canadian work experience while looking for a long-term job, Rita decided to volunteer as an administrative assistant.
After Rita completed her language training, she successfully applied for a position as a front desk hotel clerk. Rita was excited to take this first step towards her long-term goal of being a manager in the hotel industry.
Are you a new immigrant looking for a job or planning your career in Manitoba? Visit Manitoba Start at 271 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, for free career development and job-matching services to help you achieve your professional goals in Canada. www.manitobastart.com
