Centre for Skills will be closed on Monday, October 14th, 2024. Happy Thanksgiving!
Our regular operations will resume on Tuesday, October 15th, 2024.

COVID-19 Response

About to Hit Send? Check the Job Ad

Sep 11, 2024

How is the job search going?  I know, frustrating right?  Stick with it! If you are doing all the right things such as knowing which job titles to begin your search with, being connected to different job search engines (Indeed, LinkedIn, Simplyhired etc.), and remembering to check the job search notifications regularly, then you should find a good match eventually. 

Imagine you’ve struck gold! You’ve found exactly what you’re looking for: you meet the requirements, and your experience fits the description…Check, Check: Jackpot! Full speed ahead. You are ready to apply! 

Hold up a second, let’s pump the breaks a little and not be such an eager beaver (Canadian reference, eh?) 

Before we begin crafting a resume and possible cover letter for this “perfect job” let’s take a second and look at some of the other details beyond the job title itself.  Have you even checked what city it is in? Iqaluit, Nunavut would be a pretty far commute. 

Besides the job title, description and requirements there is a lot more to look at in a job ad for your consideration. Here is a breakdown of what to ask yourself: 

  • Is it recently posted? How old is the job ad? 
  • Is it close to where you live or another city/area to commute a long way or possibly relocate to? 
  • Do the required hours match your goal of either part time (under 30 hours per week) or full time (over 30 hours)? 
  • Does it state the work schedule? If so, does it state Monday to Friday hours? Does it include weekends or rotating shifts? 
  • Does it match your preference for working in person, or from home or a mix (hybrid) of both? 
  • When is the start date of the position? 
  • Does it state the hourly wage or salary and if so, does it align with your expectations? 
  • How do you apply? Are there any specific instructions you should follow? 

The above considerations are often overlooked in reviewing a job ad and can be key factors determining whether you can or cannot accept a job offer.  Part of your job search is finding a job that meets their requirements, but also meets your own requirements and current situation.  Determine what you can compromise on, and what you cannot. Commuting to Nunavut would likely be the latter. 

If this starting to make sense, but you are still feeling a bit unsure or flustered, WE CAN HELP. We can guide you in many aspects of your job search in Canada ranging from job search strategies, resumes and cover letters, interviews and even tips to successfully navigate the 3-month probationary period of your new job. 

Join our FREE Pathways to Work – Enhanced Language Training (ELT) Language and Job Search Assistance Program for Newcomers starting September 16, 2024 and an additional evening class start date of September 30, 2024. Our certified (OCELT) instructors and Newcomer Career Specialist will help you search, improve your confidence and be prepared for meaningful employment in Canada!