Many international students attending a Canadian post-secondary institution do not have a job offer when they graduate. Thus, while studying in Canada or when you complete your studies in Canada, i.e., transition from international student to international graduate, you will need to start from the ground up with your job search. Well, stick to this guide to know how you can find your first job as an international graduate in Canada. 

Research 

It is rare to know what role you are looking for when first entering the workforce as a new graduate. 

Thus, researching potential career paths and jobs is an integral step in finding your first job after graduation. In fact, Indeed.com, a popular employment search platform used by both job seekers and employers, lists research as the primary step for job seekers looking to get a job after graduation. 

One can begin this process in numerous ways, like: 

1. Searching Jobs By Industry 

For instance, a marketing graduate can begin their job search by typing ‘types of jobs in the marketing industry.’ 

2. Searching For Jobs By Degree 

Another approach would be marketing graduates with a bachelor’s degree searching ‘entry-level marketing job bachelor’s degree’ via Google. 

A search like this can produce results where a phrase like ‘bachelor’s degree’ is in the job description/ posting, which can give you a better idea of the requirements expected by employers recruiting for the jobs you seek. 

Moreover, now is also an excellent time to take a preliminary look at some available job postings. This is beneficial because it can help you curate your resume before you formally begin applying for open positions. 

Lastly, take some time to research potential employers/ companies you might want to work for. This can help you get an idea of companies to apply to when you are ready, as it can give you an idea of their culture, the wages they offer, and more. 

Note: Younger job seekers often don’t stay in a single career for more than three years, signaling that they might not be looking for a long-term career immediately after graduation. In fact, according to data published in March 2024, Generation Z employees spend an average of just two years and three months at a job. 

Note: Linkedin is another popular employment platform that enables users to network with one another and seek jobs through its own dedicated job search tool. 

Networking 

Another way to find your first job as an international graduate in Canada is networking. 

Networking is an integral part of the job search process in Canada. This is because networking can help international students access employment opportunities that might not be publicly advertised online. 

According to a data report in a 2023 article, the significance of networking as a job seeker in statistics is like the following: 

Moreover, according to a 2020 study by LinkedIn, almost three-quarters of survey respondents were hired because someone they know made an introduction or a connection. 

According to a 2022 survey, almost half of interviewees found their current jobs through some form or effect of networking, including referrals and much more. 

Also, networking can be a valuable tool for staying updated on news and trends in the industry you are looking to work in or the general Canadian employment landscape. 

What Is Networking and Who Can I Network With? 

Networking is the term for what happens when people gather, generally in an informal social setting, to share information and ideas with others who share a common interest or profession. 

Networking enables new job seekers, like recent graduates, to ask people they know questions that might be able to help them with their job search.   

In addition, you can do networking with friends, school alumni, family, people attending job affairs, and those at designated networking events. 

Create/ Update Your Resume 

Ensuring that your resume is well-prepared will help it stand out to potential employers. 

Note: It is vital to tailor your resume to every job you apply for, depending on the keywords, phrases, and requirements included in each job posting. According to numerous career coaches, tailoring your resume enables you to demonstrate your relevant skills and experience and demonstrate that you are an excellent fit for the role. 

For instance, returning to the point about using a ‘bachelor’s degree’ in your initial job search, you will want to focus on ensuring your resume uses keywords as well as phrases that capture the skills as well as proficiencies required by the position you are applying for. 

This implies that if you see many job postings referring to ideal applicants having a ‘bachelor’s degree in marketing,’ you must consider using ‘bachelor’s degree in marketing’ on your resume instead of ‘degree in marketing from x school.’ 

Prepare For Interviews

Another way to find your first job as an international graduate in Canada is to prepare for interviews. 

Preparing for interviews in advance can help you appear more favorable to an employer when the time comes for your interview, as it displays an extra level of confidence and readiness. 

In fact, a study showed that over 40% of interviewers judged people on their voice and overall confidence. This reinforces the high value of preparation before participating in a formal job interview, as preparation is key to creating a great first impression through your voice and outward confidence. 

Moreover, interview preparation can involve mock interviews with friends and family. It includes doing simple tasks like preparing and practicing answers to common interview questions before you ever speak to a prospective employer. 

In addition, it also helps to research the employer and their values or mission statement. This will offer you a better understanding of what they might be searching for in an employee.      
If you seek information on how to begin your Canada immigration application process, you can talk to our NavaImmigration experts at 1800-918-8490, or you can drop us an email at [email protected].