How to Win in Canada’s Job Market as a Newcomer: 5 Strategies from the Deloitte and ICC Report

A recent report by Deloitte and the Institute for Canadian Citizenship (ICC) sheds light on this issue. The report, “Talent to Win,” makes one thing clear: Canadian businesses are not using the full potential of immigrant talent, and it’s hurting everyone, including you. 

Employers are still sticking to outdated methods, leaving you feeling like you’re being held back simply because your experience isn’t ‘Canadian enough.’ But this doesn’t mean you’re powerless. There are strategies you can use to navigate the job market, sidestep the barriers, and maximize your opportunities.

Key Takeaways

• Canadian employers tend to stick to outdated practices, which hurts the employers but has a large impact on immigrant workers in particular. 
• You aren’t powerless in this situation – act strategically to overcome these challenges and make the most of your employment opportunities. 
• Focusing on transferable skills and prioritizing working with innovative and/or inclusive companies can help you win in Canada.

Here are five takeaways from the report to help you not just survive, but thrive, in Canada’s job market.

Turn Your Transferable Skills into Your Biggest Asset

If you’ve ever felt like employers in Canada don’t fully understand the value of your international experience, you’re not alone. Many newcomers get frustrated when their qualifications don’t seem to hold the same weight as they did in their home country. But here’s the good news: it’s not about what you can’t offer, it’s about how you package what you do offer.

For example, the Talent To Win Playbook report notes that one hiring manager used to look for experience driving in the snow when it was hiring transport drivers. However, once they started hiring individuals with no experience in the snow, they found that these drivers were actually more careful and reported fewer accidents. By focusing on safety instead of experience, these candidates succeeded in Canada. 

Many Canadian employers are unsure how to translate foreign credentials and experience into something they understand. Instead of getting bogged down by this, focus on what you can bring to the table: your transferable skills. These are abilities like leadership, problem-solving, safety, teamwork, and adaptability—skills that are valuable in any job or industry.

Don’t just apply for jobs identical to the one you had back home. Instead, highlight how the skills you’ve gained abroad can provide a fresh perspective and give the company a global edge. For example, if you’ve led teams, negotiated with diverse clients, or solved complex problems in fast-paced environments, show Canadian employers how these skills can directly benefit them. This approach can make you stand out, even when your experience isn’t typically ‘Canadian.’

Seek Out Companies That Embrace New Ways of Hiring

A major barrier many newcomers like you face is the rigid hiring processes Canadian companies often stick to. Unfortunately, many businesses are still stuck in their old ways, overly focused on Canadian experience or specific qualifications. But here’s something you may not realize: there are companies out there that have embraced innovative hiring practices and have had massive success because of it. And they’re looking for people just like you.

For example, the report highlights one Canadian construction company that assembled teams where everyone spoke the same foreign language, such as Ukrainian or Hindi. These crews outperformed their competitors because they were more productive and had fewer communication barriers, even though their English skills weren’t as strong as other workers. This type of creative approach is happening more often, and you should actively seek out companies that are willing to think outside the box.

Some businesses are also changing their hiring practices by removing names and identifying information from resumes to reduce unconscious bias. This kind of blind hiring process increases your chances of being judged for your skills, not your background. By researching and targeting companies known for their flexible or inclusive hiring practices, you can open more doors.

Seek Mentorship – It Could Be the Key to Your Success

One of the challenges the Deloitte and ICC report highlights is that many companies don’t offer proper onboarding or mentoring to immigrants. As a newcomer, this can make it difficult for you to understand workplace norms or know how to navigate your new environment. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to do it alone.

Mentorship can make a huge difference in how quickly you adapt to the Canadian job market. Finding a mentor—someone who’s been through the process themselves, or who understands the Canadian professional landscape—can provide you with invaluable insights. Mentors can help you identify which skills are in demand, how to tailor your resume for Canadian employers, and even how to handle interviews or workplace dynamics.

You can find mentors through community programs, immigrant-serving organizations, or even within your network. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for guidance; most people are more than willing to help if they know you’re serious about your career. Mentorship can also help you expand your network, which is crucial in a market where who you know can sometimes be just as important as what you know.

Get Creative with Your Job Applications and Network Effectively

If you’re applying to jobs and not hearing back, it might not be about your qualifications—it could be about how your application is being perceived. Canada is well known for favouring Canadian experience, with the Deloitte and ICC report noting that this is an extremely costly attitude for employers to take – and that it disproportionately impacts immigrants, who remain underemployed but ready to work. 

To overcome this, remember that Canadian employers might not be familiar with the companies or institutions you’ve worked for, which means they might overlook your experience if it doesn’t match what they’re used to seeing.

This is where you need to get creative. Focus on crafting a resume and cover letter that highlight your achievements in a way that’s easy for employers to understand. Break down what you did, why it mattered, and how it benefited the organization. Whenever possible, quantify your accomplishments—numbers and results are universally understood.

But don’t stop at just submitting resumes. Networking is one of the most effective ways to land a job in Canada, especially for newcomers. Attend industry events, join professional groups on LinkedIn, and don’t hesitate to reach out to people in your field. Building relationships can sometimes lead to job opportunities that never even get posted online. Remember, networking is not about asking for a job outright; it’s about building relationships and learning more about your industry.

Work for Employers Who Care About More Than Just Your Work

Here’s a reality check: the best employers in Canada aren’t just looking for someone to fill a role. They understand that hiring you isn’t just about your skills—it’s about supporting your overall well-being, because a happy and supported employee is a productive one.

The Deloitte and ICC report found that companies that go the extra mile to support immigrant employees beyond the workplace—through family services, language programs, or recreational activities—tend to retain talent for much longer. This holistic approach can help you feel more settled and focused on your career instead of worrying about how your family is adjusting to life in Canada.

Look for employers who value your overall success, not just your output at work. Some companies are working with local organizations to provide childcare, assist with school placements for your kids, or even help your spouse find a job. These supports can make a huge difference in your life and give you the peace of mind you need to succeed in your career.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the job search, consider taking advantage of programs like the ICC’s Canoo Pass, which offers free access to some of Canada’s best cultural and recreational sites for newcomers. It’s a reminder that your life in Canada is about more than just work—it’s about building a fulfilling life for yourself and your family.

Remember: You Can Thrive in the Canadian Job Market

It’s clear from the Deloitte and ICC report that Canadian employers are missing out on the incredible talent newcomers like you bring. But this doesn’t mean you’re stuck. By focusing on your transferable skills, targeting innovative companies, seeking mentorship, and building your network, you can break through the barriers that hold many newcomers back.

Remember, the job market is competitive, but you bring something unique to the table—your global experience, your diverse skills, and your fresh perspective. The more you lean into these strengths and find employers who value them, the more successful you’ll be. And while there may be challenges ahead, you have the power to turn those challenges into opportunities for growth and success.

So, as you navigate your job search, keep these strategies in mind and remember: You have what it takes to succeed in Canada.