The “Talent to Win” report offers five crucial recommendations for newcomers aiming to thrive in Canada’s job market and avoid underemployment.
It highlights the advantages of integrating immigrant talent into the workforce, emphasizing how diverse skills can drive innovation and growth when fostered by inclusive employers.
The report points out that over the next three years, Canada plans to grant permanent residency to 1.5 million people, with 60% of them selected for their potential to contribute to the workforce. This policy aims to address labor shortages in critical sectors, counter low birth rates, and support an aging population. However, it also reveals a troubling trend: many immigrants’ skills are currently underutilized in the labor market, a situation that harms both the individuals and businesses struggling to find skilled workers.
The report cites research from Deloitte, which suggests that labor shortages reduced Canada’s GDP potential by $54 billion in 2022. The report warns that these shortages will continue unless Canada can more effectively tap into its existing talent pool.
Here are five key recommendations for newcomers to succeed and for employers to better leverage immigrant skills:
1.Seek Training and Mentorship
One of the report’s key insights is that a lack of proper onboarding, training, and mentorship hampers the success of immigrants in the workforce. Newcomers are encouraged to pursue mentorship and training opportunities, both within and outside their organizations, to better understand Canadian workplace norms. Networking with industry professionals and contacting settlement agencies can also offer valuable support.
2.Focus on Skills, Not Job Titles
Many immigrants tend to limit their job search to roles that match their previous job titles. The report suggests that newcomers should emphasize transferable skills such as leadership, problem-solving, and communication. By broadening their job search to include roles where these skills are valuable, they can unlock more opportunities.
3.Translate International Experience
Employers may struggle to assess the relevance of international experience. Newcomers are advised to explain their previous roles in terms that Canadian employers can easily relate to. For example, describing a former employer as “the largest bank in Nigeria” or “the oldest university in Nigeria” can help recruiters better understand their experience.
4.Highlight International Experience as an Asset
While Canadian work experience is highly valued, international experience can be a significant advantage, especially for companies aiming to expand globally. Newcomers should highlight their international work experience, focusing on challenges they’ve overcome and solutions they’ve implemented, demonstrating how these experiences are relevant to potential roles.
5.Seek Employers That Value Diversity
Many Canadian companies recognize the value of diverse teams. The report encourages immigrants to seek employers that offer support services such as language training, accessible childcare, and employment support for spouses. Companies that work with settlement agencies to provide comprehensive assistance are particularly valuable for newcomers.
These recommendations aim to help immigrants fully realize their potential and contribute to Canada’s economy by bridging the gap between underutilized talent and available opportunities.
