Did you know that in 2017 in Quebec, the employment share of SMEs was 87%? To start your job search on the right foot, it is worth learning about the particularities of the local market. This will increase your chances of reaching your career goal. Here are four steps to consider for a successful outcome. Take the time to review the suggested tools—they are free!
1. Clearly define your career objective
Would you like to get the same job in the same industry as before? An Interconnection Program advisor can help you explore prospects tailored to your background by organizing activities like express mentoring or an internship. Having a clear goal in mind will make your research easier. If you are thinking about a career change, the Job Futures tool will help you find occupations with favourable job prospects in the next few years according to five personality profiles. If you would like to go deeper, you could also seek out the services of a guidance counsellor. Some specialized employability organizations offer this service for free. A guidance counsellor will be able to help you establish a free skills report.
2. Know the requirements and conditions of the job market in Montreal
This may seem obvious, but do not immediately rush to a job website. Although a number of offers may match your career goal, in the end you will save yourself time and frustration by first understanding the reality of your job in the Quebec market.
The Emploi-Québec website Information sur le marché du travail (IMT) is an invaluable resource. In addition to providing up-to-date information on your industry, it lists job titles and average yearly or hourly salaries.
In addition, the profession you want to practice may require a licence and membership in a professional order. You will need to rapidly take steps to add these qualifications to your CV so that it is at least considered by recruiters. Consult the list of professions here.
3. Adapt your application to the position and company
If your goal is to get a job that matches your expertise, you must know the local equivalents and designations of your degrees or have the skills you acquired abroad recognized in Quebec. The Qualification Québec portal brings together reference services for the recognition of education and skills (reconnaissance des acquis et des compétences, or RAC) in Quebec.
Depending on the type of position you’re targeting, it could also be a good idea to start with SMEs with fewer than 100 employees. The Centre de recherche industrielle du Québec’s iCRIQ search engine allows you to find Quebec companies by name, product or service. Next, visiting the selected organization’s website will help you learn more about its activities, mission and values. This information will allow you to better match your background with job offers, whether you are applying for the job or preparing for the interview.
4. Consult advisors
Even with the best intentions, looking for a job in a new country can be daunting because you have to find new reference points. To maintain your momentum, it will help to rebuild a network of people who can guide and advise you. Start now by reading the article Newcomers: your network, the key to accessing the labour market