Internet
The most common (and today probably the most effective) way that people find and apply to jobs is using the web. Some companies have problems managing applications as they receive too many resumes to effectively process, so this doesn’t necessarily mean you are going to get a prompt response.
The Internet is an excellent research medium with a number of websites that provide opportunities to employees throughout Canada. The following is a list of major Canadian job portals:
Typically, you may find better results by researching companies that interest you (especially if you have specific industry skills and are looking for a position in a larger company). Go to their corporate website and make an application there specific to the company or an available position.
When applying online, you can usually attach your resume, cover letter and perhaps fill in all that information by copying and pasting the data. There are sometimes additional questions. The move from paper to electronic has not changed applicant behaviour, recruiters still complain about the low quality of applications. Make sure you take the time to provide all the information asked for, present it well. This will increase your chances.
Recruiting Agencies
Recruiting agencies vary across Canada. Depending on their location or their area of specialization, they may address the needs of different companies and different individuals.
Many agencies focus on short term or contract positions. In this case, they usually charge the employer and then transfer the pay to the worker net of their fees. Recruitment agencies are a very good option if you are looking for a contract position.
Networking
Talking and interacting with other people can help you find a job. Family and friends may know someone that is looking to hire a worker. Many job positions are filled through contacts and recommendations; knowing the right people can be a real help. Make sure you tell people you are looking for a job; personal contacts can often bring leads. Joining social clubs such as sailing, skiing, or even the board of trade of the city/region where you live can expose you to networking opportunities that may result in you getting a job. There are also online networking communities that have built-in features for finding jobs, check out the following links:
CareerCenters and Fairs
There are a number of career centers in Canada. Some affiliated to educational institutions, some private companies. They can be a useful place to start when looking for a job. Many offer guidance such as resume writing workshops and other useful courses that can be a real help in finding the right job and increasing your chances.
From time to time, career fairs are organized that bring together a large number of employers and provide information to the potential employees. These fairs can help you gauge your interest in a company and help you make a decision on how to conduct your search.
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) Job Bank
As a designated federal body for the labour market in Canada, HRSDC offers many services to people looking for employment, including: resume writing workshops, mock interviews, etc. Please consult the HRSDC website for more information.
Direct Company Applications
Depending on the industry, you can potentially get a job by walking into a company and asking for one. You can prepare paper resumes and submit them to the administrative assistants or secretaries. Remember that from the moment that you enter the company, you are being evaluated, so try to make a good first impression as that may just be the deciding factor in their hiring decision.
Newspapers
Many community and local newspapers have a classified section that contains job advertisements. In addition, there are some free local publications that only deal with job postings and that can be a good source of job search information. These can be found in the job banks, metro stations and at local HRSDC centers.