Have you recently moved to Toronto, either from another country or another part of Canada?
Settling down was challenging, but you managed it. Now you’re wondering, “What’s the best way to get a job?” It begins with gathering all the necessary information and preparing for what lies ahead. To work in Toronto, you must have a work permit and a social security number. If you’re unsure how to proceed, start by learning about the prerequisites for moving to Canada and then focus on understanding work permits.
Next, refine your resume or CV to meet Canadian standards. Strengthen your command of English or French, as these are the primary languages used in Toronto.
In the next section, we’ll cover how to get a job in Toronto, starting with resumé preparation and moving on to understanding the labor market, identifying key platforms/job boards, and more.
POTENTIAL WAYS OF HAVING HIGHER CHANCES OF GETTING A JOB IN TORONTO
Although Toronto offers many career opportunities, many other professionals are vying for the same positions. To stand out, your resumé must be compelling. It’s beneficial to update your resumé after each significant work milestone, change in duties, job promotion, or new certification. Include any new skills or completed projects on your resumé to highlight your growth.
Regrettably, some Toronto recruiters may prioritize Canadian job experience on résumés, especially for roles beyond entry level. One approach to address this is to start with temporary positions. If your employer recognizes your potential, they may offer you a permanent role after a few months. This strategy also helps you gain local work experience.
For additional support, consider reaching out to reputable resumé writing professionals in Toronto.
GETTING A GOOD GRAPS OF THE LABOR MARKET
In late 2023, Canada experienced its lowest unemployment rate in nearly nine years. Ontario alone added almost 137,900 net new jobs. Additionally, Ontario’s unemployment rate has consistently been lower than the national average for over two years.
As Canada’s economic hub, Toronto hosts thriving economic sectors with promising job prospects. Many of these opportunities offer full-time positions with above-average wages.
Thriving Sectors in Toronto:
- Finance industry
- Technology
- Healthcare
- Food and Drinks
- Life sciences
According to Global News Canada, some of the most in-demand positions in Canada earlier this year included:
- General laborer
- Sales representative
- Accountant
- Engineering project manager
- Business analyst
- Customer service representative
- IT project manager
- Account manager
- Software engineer
- Forklift operators
For understanding the general minimum pay rate in Ontario, it’s CAD 14.00 per hour. However, the minimum wage rate varies for students, house workers, fishing and hunting guides, and waiters in alcohol-serving establishments.
While Toronto’s job market seems promising, it’s also highly competitive. Ensure you’re well-prepared before making your initial move.
SIMPLE STEPS GETTING A JOB IN TORONTO
- CONFIRM YOUR STATUS TO WORK IN CANADA
Toronto has a history of welcoming immigrants, and obtaining a visa in Canada is relatively straightforward compared to many European countries. Express Entry is an option for many immigration applicants, with minimal restrictions besides finding work. Use the CRS calculator to assess your eligibility for Express Entry, or visit Canada’s immigration services website to find out more.
- EXPLORE ONLINE RESOURCES
Given its proximity, many job search sites in Toronto mirror those in the United States.
The internet provides a wide array of opportunities across various industries, making it the ideal starting point for job hunting.
Here are some of the top websites for employment searches in Toronto:
- Explore Toronto Jobs, dedicated exclusively to the city (don’t miss their job fair!)
- Discover a broad spectrum of employment opportunities across Canada on Workopolis.
- Uncover listings of Canada’s top 100 employers on Workopolis.
- Explore Career Builder for a diverse array of job openings.
- Utilize Eluta to search among Canada’s top 100 employers.
- Find a variety of job opportunities in your area on Hot Jobs in Canada.
- Don’t forget to browse through the top employment sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, and Simply Hired for more options.
- CONSIDER ENGAGING WITH A RECRUITER
While online searches offer valuable options, they lack the personalized touch that a recruiter can provide.
Partnering with an agency offers tailored assistance in crafting your cover letter and refining your resume, along with interview guidance and insights into potential employers.
While it’s essential to find an agency that aligns with your needs, the following recruiters are highly regarded in Toronto:
- Apex Life Sciences specializes in science, engineering, and research roles.
- The Judge Group focuses on technology and healthcare placements.
- Procom caters to professionals seeking IT careers.
4 Aquent assists individuals across various industries.
- Vitamin T specializes in creative talent recruitment.
- The Select Group aids experts seeking positions in diverse fields.
- Do some networking
A solid professional network is one of the most crucial aspects of any job hunt, and it is especially beneficial while looking for work in Toronto.
If you have time to visit the city before or during your job hunt, attending professional events is one of the most effective ways to gain an advantage over your competition.
The Hip Haus hosts events focusing on networking with other young professionals in a casual setting.
For a comprehensive list of networking events, see Kijiji’s networking events forum, Eventbrite’s Toronto Gatherings, or Toronto Eventful’s networking meetings.
To meet Toronto’s professional women, consider joining the Ellevate Network.
To meet other professionals in a more social setting, attend Toronto Business Casual.
- Ensure your CV is up to date.
There are numerous jobs available in Toronto, but it is important to note that many professionals are competing for them. If you want to be considered for the position, you’ll need a CV that sticks out.
- Apply for a Canadian work visa
The Canadian Department of Immigration has made it pretty simple to apply for a work visa.
The entire process can be performed online, and all you need to bring with you are scanned copies of the required work permit documents.
Once you have your documents in order, you can apply for your permission through the Canadian government’s web portal.
While the application procedure is quite simple, many native-English speakers get stalled on one immigration technicality when attempting to obtain Express Entry or a Skilled Immigrant visa.
Even if you are a native English speaker, you will have to take a formal language exam. The CELPIP and IELTS are both accepted language examinations.
Where Do I Find Job Postings in Ontario?
Before you apply for a work visa, you should contact a few organizations in your industry to inquire about any open openings.
To boost your chances of being considered for a position, work on your networking abilities and strive to create strong professional connections with your potential employer.
Strive to find ways to let them know you intend to relocate to Canada and that you are excited about the opportunities that await.
One strategy to find your ideal employer is to browse the main Internet job boards in Canada.
Community Organizations And Social Services
Another option to narrow down your job search is to connect with Toronto-based community organizations and social agencies that specialize in assisting recent immigrants.
You will not only attend workshops about the labor market and life in Toronto, but you will also meet and learn from other professionals.
Consortium of Agencies Serving Internationally Trained Professionals (CASIP)
CASIP offers language training, workshops, and other resources to newcomers looking for jobs in Toronto and the surrounding areas.
These programs span a wide range of fields, including accounting, finance, and sales, as well as engineering, business management, and human resources.
Aside from learning how to seek a job in Toronto, you’ll also have the opportunity to network.
FAQs
What is the ideal length for my resume in Canada?
Your resume should ideally be around two pages long. If you have limited experience, one page is adequate.
How can I condense my resume?
Avoid extensive details about past positions. Less relevant previous roles can be summarized in one or two lines.
Should I include personal information like references, birth date, or marital status on my CV?
No, you should omit references, a signature, birth date, gender, race, nationality, or marital status from your CV.
Is it necessary to list all my employment history on my CV?
Include only relevant work history applicable to the position you’re applying for. Focus on recent and relevant employers.
Do I need to include references on my CV?
Typically, references are not included on CVs. However, if the job description requests them, you may mention them, or provide contact information upon request.
Is it recommended to apply for jobs in person?
Applying for jobs in person is not a standard practice in Canada.
Conclusion
This article provides a comprehensive overview of finding work in Toronto. Familiarize yourself with immigration requirements, study the labor market, and refine your resume. Utilize the recommended platforms for job search and leverage networking opportunities to enhance your chances of success.