If you want employment, this blog post may be useful for you, because you will find a link here to the following things:
- How to arrange for an information interview
- How to write a resume with no experience
- How to write an effective cover letter
- How to prepare for an interview
- How to fit into Canadian workplace by getting acquainted with Canadian work culture
So, you may be at that point in your life where you realize that your kids are mature enough to manage without you at home. Or you have simply decided to make a comeback to your career, because life is just not the same without it. However, some time has passed and you don’t have a clear vision about how that might unfold for you. You simply don’t know where to start. If that rings a bell, you may find these posts helpful in making a transition into workforce.
Whether you are in two minds about what career to choose and you need to explore some new options, or you already know exactly what you want, you may need to put your foot in the door first. You can do that by setting up an information interview.
How to arrange for an information interview
My post Information Interview: What Is It and How to Arrange for One? , explains what an information interview is and what you can expect to gain from it. It also takes you through the process of arranging for an information interview. The steps are:
- Researching the person you want to interview
- Writing the person an e-mail
- Preparing your questions
- and writing a thank-you e-mail within 24-hours
The post also gives you sample interview questions about the industry, the company and specific job as well as the person’s career path.
Taking part in an information interview is an important step in getting employment in Canada.
If you want to write a killer resume, but have no experience
How to Write a Killer Resume with no Experience is a great resource for moms who have just arrived in Canada and have no idea how to write a North-American resume. The post starts off by giving you the do’s and don’ts of resume writing. It then takes you through eleven steps explaining how to craft your resume. It includes analyzing the job requirements and asking yourself if you possess them. Also, it incorporates choosing the resume format (there are three formats to pick from) and selecting a template to go with it. It enlightens you about the difference between resume summary and an objective statement. There is an important suggestion to make a skills section on your resume. The post also gives you tips on what types of experience you should include if you don’t have the proper Canadian experience. It lists the action verbs that look good on resumes. Last, but not least, it asks you to proofread your work.
If you don’t know how to tackle a cover letter
Since a resume should be accompanied by a cover letter, you may be wondering how to write one. In How to write an Effective Cover Letter, you can learn what a cover letter is and what parts it consists of. Since an introduction is the hook, and therefore, the most important part of a cover letter, you need to know exactly what to include and what words to use. In paragraph two, you need to explain why you are the perfect fit for the company. Paragraph three should render why the company is a perfect fit for you. The closing should be a summary and contain an irresistible offer for the company.
If you are dreading a job interview
If you are petrified of job interviews, you must read Preparing for a Job Interview – Ten Great Tips. It starts by having you review the job ad carefully, especially the job description and job specification section, and then evaluate yourself against it. Then, you need to tweak your resume accordingly and research the company. Next, you must prepare your answers to common interview questions and practice with someone, like a friend in a mock interview. You will also need to pay attention to your voice, body language and clothes. Don’t forget to print off your resume for your interviewers and yourself. Finally, do not forget the follow-up after the interview. It may make all the difference and actually help you get employment.
If you are worried about keeping employment
My two posts have you prepared if you are worried about keeping the job once you get it. One is The Fundamentals of Canadian Work Culture for Newcomers to Canada, and the other one is How to Make Small Talk at Work. The first one gives you the basics of Canadian work culture like the work hours and the dress code, the importance of punctuality and time management, and values like equality and team work. The latter teaches you what small talk is and why it is important. It also takes you through steps of small talking and touches on the acceptable small talk topics.
Hopefully, these posts will not only help you secure employment in Canada, but they will also help you thrive in a Canadian workplace.
All the best!