For newcomers to Canada, gaining local work experience is often the key to enhancing their resumes and standing out in the competitive job market. Canadian employers value familiarity with local workplace culture, communication styles, and industry standards, so having Canadian experience on your resume can make a significant difference. Here are some effective strategies for building Canadian work experience and creating a resume that will catch the attention of employers. 

November is Career and Workforce Development Month in Manitoba, a province-wide initiative to support career planning and workforce growth. It’s the perfect time to explore how to gain Canadian work experience. This article will provide practical tips to help you gain experience, grow your skills, and move closer to your career goals. 

Start with Volunteering 

Volunteering is one of the quickest ways to gain Canadian experience, expand your network, and develop skills that are valued by employers. Many organizations, including non-profits and community groups, welcome volunteers, and these positions often provide an excellent opportunity to learn about Canadian workplace culture in a low-pressure setting. Highlighting volunteer roles on your resume demonstrates your commitment, adaptability, and willingness to contribute, even before securing a paid position. 

When listing volunteer roles on your resume, emphasize specific achievements and skills gained. For instance, if you volunteered in a healthcare setting, mention the interpersonal and communication skills you developed and any hands-on experience with tasks relevant to your field. 

Look for Temporary, Part-Time, or Entry-Level Positions 

Temporary, part-time, or entry-level roles can be excellent starting points for newcomers, providing valuable Canadian work experience and helping you transition into your desired field. For tradespeople working toward Red Seal certification, positions like general labourer or apprentice can offer practical workplace exposure. Similarly, internationally educated nurses may begin as health-care aides while pursuing Canadian licensing. These roles demonstrate your adaptability and commitment to future career goals. 

Temporary (or term) work is common in Canada and often involves short-term projects or seasonal roles. These opportunities can help you gain relevant skills, expand your network, and create pathways to permanent employment. Even part-time or entry-level jobs outside your field can build transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and customer service. 

On your resume, focus on how these roles align with your long-term goals. Highlight specific skills and accomplishments, such as safety protocols learned in a trades role or organizational skills applied in a clerical position. By showcasing these experiences, you’ll demonstrate your readiness for more advanced roles in the Canadian workplace. 

Pursue Internships or Co-Op Programs 

Internships and co-op programs provide hands-on experience in specific industries, making them ideal for newcomers looking to gain relevant experience. Often, these are offered while attending education programs in universities and colleges, but there are few offered elsewhere. While internships are sometimes unpaid, they often lead to valuable job opportunities and professional relationships. RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) offers programs that include work placements, allowing students to gain real-world experience directly related to their career goals. 

On your resume, describe your contributions during your internships or work placements, such as any projects you completed, skills you applied, or recognition you received from supervisors. Highlighting these achievements can make your resume more appealing to potential employers. 

Take on Contract or Freelance Work 

Contract and freelance roles are increasingly common in Canada and can provide valuable experience, particularly in fields like technology, writing, design, and consulting. Freelance work allows you to build a portfolio of projects that showcase your expertise, even if you’re new to the Canadian market. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr or Freelancer, can be great places to start. Industry job boards are a better option.  

When adding freelance work to your resume, list specific clients (if possible) or describe the scope of projects completed. For example, a freelance graphic designer might highlight branding projects for small businesses, showing employers the range of their skills and experience. 

Network with Professionals in Your Field 

Networking is essential for finding job opportunities in Canada. Attending local industry events, joining professional associations, and participating in community activities can introduce you to professionals who might refer you for job openings or provide guidance. Building a LinkedIn profile and connecting with others in your field is also a great way to expand your network. 

When networking, aim to make genuine connections rather than asking for job opportunities immediately. Many professionals are happy to offer advice and may introduce you to others who can help with your job search. Including a “Professional Affiliations” section on your resume can demonstrate your active engagement in the industry. 

Tailor Your Resume to Canadian Standards 

In Canada, resumes are typically one or two pages and focus on skills and accomplishments rather than personal details. Remove any personal information like your age, marital status, or photograph, as these aren’t customary on Canadian resumes. Instead, focus on describing your achievements and the specific skills you bring to the role. 

Use action-oriented language and quantifiable achievements where possible. For instance, instead of saying, “Worked as an administrative assistant,” say, “Supported daily office operations for a team of 10, managing scheduling, communications, and record-keeping to improve efficiency by 20%.”  

For more information about writing a resume, watch out for the How to Write a Standout Resume and LinkedIn Profile for the Canadian Job Market, blog article.  

Take Advantage of CNI’s Career Services 

RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration offers programs specifically designed to support newcomers in gaining Canadian work experience and navigating the job market. CNI provides resume-building workshops, interview preparation, and networking sessions, helping you develop the skills you need to present yourself confidently to Canadian employers. With CNI’s guidance, you’ll be better equipped to showcase your strengths and build a resume that aligns with Canadian standards. 

Building Your Career, One Step at a Time 

Gaining Canadian experience takes time and patience, but each opportunity—whether volunteering, part-time work, or freelancing—adds value to your resume and brings you closer to your career goals. By following these tips and actively seeking opportunities to build Canadian work experience, you’ll boost your resume, grow your network, and gain the skills needed to succeed in the Canadian job market. 

Stay tuned for more articles as we explore practical ways to boost your career and connect with opportunities across Manitoba. Whether you’re starting your career journey or advancing to the next stage, the insights shared here will help you navigate the path to success.