Building a professional network is essential to career success in Canada, especially for newcomers who may be starting from scratch in a new job market. Networking helps you meet people in your industry, learn from their experiences, and discover job opportunities that may not be advertised. Whether you’re attending in-person events or connecting online, here are some practical strategies to help you build and leverage your professional network to advance your career in Canada. 

Start with Community and Cultural Organizations in Manitoba 

In Manitoba, many community and cultural organizations offer networking events, job fairs, and workshops to support newcomers. These groups provide a welcoming environment where you can connect with professionals who understand the unique challenges of building a career in Canada. 

• Immigrant Centre Manitoba – This organization offers a variety of services to support newcomers, including job search workshops, networking opportunities, and English language support. They often host events designed to help you build local connections and learn about career resources. 

• Manitoba Start – Located in Winnipeg, Manitoba Start provides career services for newcomers, including job-matching programs, networking events, and training sessions on Canadian workplace expectations. They connect newcomers with employers looking to hire talent in the province. 

• Ethnocultural Organizations – Many cultural organizations in Manitoba hold community events and workshops that allow newcomers to meet others from similar backgrounds and connect with the broader community. Examples include the Filipino-Canadian Association of Manitoba and the India Association of Manitoba, among others. 

• World Trade Centre Winnipeg (WTC Winnipeg) – This organization offers networking opportunities and workshops for individuals interested in business and trade. WTC Winnipeg often hosts events for newcomers looking to start or expand careers in Manitoba’s business community. 

• Newcomer Employment Hub by Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce – The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce has a Newcomer Employment Hub that provides networking events, career fairs, and resources aimed specifically at helping newcomers integrate into Manitoba’s workforce. 

Tip: To stay updated on events, follow these organizations on social media or sign up for their newsletters, which often feature upcoming workshops and networking sessions tailored to newcomers. 

Join Professional Associations and Groups in Manitoba 

Professional associations are excellent for building connections within your industry and learning about local job opportunities. Many of these associations offer memberships that grant access to networking events, industry-specific conferences, and exclusive job boards. Manitoba has numerous associations with resources and events tailored for newcomers. 

• Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba – This association offers support to internationally educated engineers and geoscientists, including resources to help newcomers gain their credentials in Canada. They host networking events, mentorship programs, and workshops designed to help you connect with peers and potential employers in the field. 

• Manitoba Nurses Union (MNU) – For newcomers in healthcare, the Manitoba Nurses Union provides resources and information on navigating Manitoba’s healthcare system. They often hold events, conferences, and training sessions that are beneficial for connecting with other nursing professionals and staying informed about job opportunities. 

• CPA Manitoba (Chartered Professional Accountants of Manitoba) – For those in finance or accounting, CPA Manitoba offers membership benefits such as career resources, networking events, and professional development courses. They also provide guidance on certification pathways for internationally trained accountants. 

• ICTAM (Information and Communication Technologies Association of Manitoba) – For those in tech, ICTAM provides events, webinars, and networking opportunities for Manitoba’s IT community. They offer industry insights, mentorship programs, and access to job fairs for newcomers in IT and tech fields. 

• Life Science Association of Manitoba (LSAM) – LSAM supports professionals in biotech, pharmaceuticals, and health sciences. They offer networking events, mentorship programs, and industry-specific job resources. LSAM is particularly valuable for newcomers aiming to enter Manitoba’s life sciences sector. 

• Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) Manitoba – CME Manitoba provides industry connections, workshops, and training programs tailored for those in manufacturing. They support newcomers looking to enter the manufacturing and exporting sectors in Manitoba, offering valuable industry contacts and knowledge-sharing sessions. 

Tip: Reach out to these associations to inquire about newcomer-friendly events and programs. Many associations offer mentorships, which can be particularly valuable for learning about industry trends and navigating the local job market as a newcomer. 

Volunteer to Demonstrate Canadian Work Values and Build Connections 

While volunteer roles may not always match your professional background, they are still valuable for newcomers. Volunteering is an excellent way to demonstrate qualities that Canadian employers value—such as teamwork, commitment, and a positive work ethic.  

Many volunteer positions, such as assisting with community events, helping in food banks, or supporting local organizations, provide a chance to adapt to the Canadian workplace culture and showcase your character in a real-world setting. Additionally, volunteering allows you to meet people who can expand your network and introduce you to others in your field. 

Manitoba has numerous associations with resources and events tailored for newcomers. 

• Volunteer Manitoba – This organization connects people with volunteering opportunities throughout the province. Their website includes a searchable database where you can filter volunteer roles by sector, making it easier to find positions relevant to your career field. 

• Manitoba Start Volunteer Opportunities – Manitoba Start provides volunteer opportunities tailored to newcomers, giving you the chance to gain relevant experience and make professional connections in a supportive environment. 

• Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities – For newcomers in healthcare, volunteering at local hospitals (e.g., Health Sciences Centre or St. Boniface Hospital) or long-term care facilities can be a great way to gain Canadian experience, even if it’s not directly in a clinical role. Many hospitals have volunteer programs where you can get to know the healthcare setting and make valuable connections. 

• Immigrant Centre Manitoba – The Immigrant Centre often seeks volunteers for community support roles. Volunteering here can be a great way to connect with others who work directly with newcomers, giving you insights into the sector and access to additional local connections. 

• Winnipeg Harvest – This food bank and community organization offers volunteer opportunities for those interested in community service. It’s a great place to meet people from different backgrounds and make local connections while contributing to a worthy cause. 

Tip: While volunteer roles may not directly align with your profession, they allow you to demonstrate adaptability, enthusiasm, and a willingness to contribute—traits that can positively impact your job search in Canada. 

Make the Most of Workshops and Training Programs 

As a CNI student, you’re already participating in valuable training that builds your skills and prepares you for the Canadian job market. Beyond gaining expertise, these workshops and courses provide excellent opportunities to expand your network. Engaging with classmates, instructors, and guest speakers during these programs can help you connect with industry professionals who may offer guidance, mentorship, and potential job leads. 

Tips for Networking in Your Training Programs: 

• Ask Questions and Engage Actively – Participating in discussions and asking questions not only deepens your understanding but also helps you connect with others in the program. Showing genuine curiosity can make you memorable to instructors and peers alike. 

• Utilize Group Activities and Breaks to Build Connections – Networking often happens naturally in small group projects or during breaks. Take the initiative to introduce yourself, share insights, and get to know your classmates’ backgrounds and goals. 

• Follow Up After Sessions – If a guest speaker or instructor resonates with you, consider sending a thank-you message or connecting on LinkedIn with a personalized note. Expressing appreciation for their insights and mentioning something specific from their talk can open the door to future conversations. 

CNI’s training environment is designed not only to enhance your skills but also to foster professional connections that can support your career advancement. By being active and engaged in your programs, you’ll strengthen both your knowledge and your network, bringing you closer to your career goals in Canada.