Immigrating to Canada permanently is an exciting opportunity.
However, there are several things you should consider before you apply to be a permanent resident.
If you want to immigrate to Canada, there are a few different ways to apply. You will need to decide which immigration program will work best for you and your family.
Find out about the requirements and the steps to apply in each category:
(Please refer to this link to go to the webpage for this information: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/index.asp)
Before you arrive
Moving to Canada is an exciting opportunity but also a great challenge.
You need to know what documents to bring, what to expect in the first few days and weeks, how to find a place to live and much more.
Learn about moving to Canada and how to prepare:
(Please refer to this link to go to the webpage for this information:
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/newcomers/before.asp)
After you arrive
What you need to know:
Citizenship and Immigration Canada publishes a guide for new permanent residents of Canada. This guidebook, Welcome to Canada, offers some basic information about living in Canada.
You can read the whole guide on line or visit this link for informations on what to do after you arrive in Canada: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/newcomers/after-info.asp
I had one reader inquiring about companies or institutions that offer assistance to process documents such as Permanent Residence Card, SIN, and Driving Licence. I suggest that you do this by yourself once you arrive in Canada. This are your personal items and contains informations that are to be treated as confidential. Besides I believed all these items are to be processed in person.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
What's in a Name
You call a rose by any other name and it will still smell like a rose.
But that is not to be the case with trying to land a job. Foreign-sounding names are a hindrance to getting a job according to a University of BC Associate Professor, Philip Oreopoulos.
According to an article from The Leader, researchers from UBC sent out 6000 mock resumes between May and October last year to various employers throughout the Metro Toronto area. The CV's were identical except for the names.
The research team found English-sounding names were 40% more likely to get a call back for interview than those with foreign-sounding names.
The professor said one possibility is a preference based discrimination, where the employer has no concern about the level of skill, " its just that the employers pick the resumes that match the demographic of the people who are already working there"
Another possibility is that employers perceive a foreign-sounding name belonging to a person who might not have the desired "social and cultural communication skills necessary for the job, he added.
While this study was conducted in the Toronto area, the results could have been similar here in Vancouver concluded Oreopoulos.
This is a sad reality. But what is worse is that Canada is actually draining other countries of their talented citizens as these immigrants come to the country equipped with high educational backgrounds, extensive experiences in their field and different perspectives not to mention their global connections which could be very valuable to the Canadian economy. And where do these skills and talents go?
Most of them are not utilized. If they do never in their full potential.
Nevertheless, at least now there are discussions about this issues. There will be a day when everyone will have a real sense of equality in this country.
But that is not to be the case with trying to land a job. Foreign-sounding names are a hindrance to getting a job according to a University of BC Associate Professor, Philip Oreopoulos.
According to an article from The Leader, researchers from UBC sent out 6000 mock resumes between May and October last year to various employers throughout the Metro Toronto area. The CV's were identical except for the names.
The research team found English-sounding names were 40% more likely to get a call back for interview than those with foreign-sounding names.
The professor said one possibility is a preference based discrimination, where the employer has no concern about the level of skill, " its just that the employers pick the resumes that match the demographic of the people who are already working there"
Another possibility is that employers perceive a foreign-sounding name belonging to a person who might not have the desired "social and cultural communication skills necessary for the job, he added.
While this study was conducted in the Toronto area, the results could have been similar here in Vancouver concluded Oreopoulos.
This is a sad reality. But what is worse is that Canada is actually draining other countries of their talented citizens as these immigrants come to the country equipped with high educational backgrounds, extensive experiences in their field and different perspectives not to mention their global connections which could be very valuable to the Canadian economy. And where do these skills and talents go?
Most of them are not utilized. If they do never in their full potential.
Nevertheless, at least now there are discussions about this issues. There will be a day when everyone will have a real sense of equality in this country.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Hospitality and Tourism Jobs at the Forefront
British Columbia will have a shorted of nearly 65,000 hospitality employees by 2025.
This is good news for anyone considering building a career in the hospitality industry. But that is by 2025. What about now?
The coming Winter Olympics in 2010 will certainly be a hoped for event which will boost the labour market into record jobs creations. Added to this is the hordes of baby boomers that will leave the work force to become customers themselves in need of the services that the hospitality industry offers.
So how do you prepare for the jobs? Here are some tips from Mike Walmsley of the Employment Paper:
Create a clear path for the job you want in the industry and go for it. Be prepared. Start looking at your own professional and academic development. Look for a school or college that specializes in hospitality management diplomas and job-ready certifications in hospitality to help position you for employment and growth over the long term.
Look for a college with strong co-op program where you will have the opportunity to test your new academic foundations and hone your skills to develop professionally as well as academically.Skilled workers and experienced supervisor sand managers will be at the forefront to take advantage of the continued growth in the hospitality sector.
So you guys out there who are still unsure where your career is going, you might wanna consider this career path.
This is good news for anyone considering building a career in the hospitality industry. But that is by 2025. What about now?
The coming Winter Olympics in 2010 will certainly be a hoped for event which will boost the labour market into record jobs creations. Added to this is the hordes of baby boomers that will leave the work force to become customers themselves in need of the services that the hospitality industry offers.
So how do you prepare for the jobs? Here are some tips from Mike Walmsley of the Employment Paper:
Create a clear path for the job you want in the industry and go for it. Be prepared. Start looking at your own professional and academic development. Look for a school or college that specializes in hospitality management diplomas and job-ready certifications in hospitality to help position you for employment and growth over the long term.
Look for a college with strong co-op program where you will have the opportunity to test your new academic foundations and hone your skills to develop professionally as well as academically.Skilled workers and experienced supervisor sand managers will be at the forefront to take advantage of the continued growth in the hospitality sector.
So you guys out there who are still unsure where your career is going, you might wanna consider this career path.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Signed and Dated
I have finally signed the agreement which would propel me back to the school campus.
With the recent debacle of the world economy, I consider myself lucky to be laid off from work as this will really give me the opportunity to pursue the career that I always wanted, the cost of which I never could have afford to pay myself while taking care for the needs of my family.
The province of BC does come through when you need it to. That at least is my opinion for now and I know a lot of people out there will dis-agree with me specifically those who are on the other end of this town called Politicsville.
Like what I have always said, do not think that being laid off from work is the end of the world.
There will always be doors and windows that will open for you if you just gather youself together, clear your head, and do not let your emotions get the better of you. I understand, and I have felt it too. Getting axed always will get you doubt your abilities. Feelings like you are not good enough creeps up your brain, damaging your ego, paralising you to think that your situation may have just improved, better than those who are left at the shop you just left.
As long as you know what you want, finding your way to get it is just a matter of time and sometimes, we need to be in grave situations to be able to get our brains working on hyper-drive.
With the recent debacle of the world economy, I consider myself lucky to be laid off from work as this will really give me the opportunity to pursue the career that I always wanted, the cost of which I never could have afford to pay myself while taking care for the needs of my family.
The province of BC does come through when you need it to. That at least is my opinion for now and I know a lot of people out there will dis-agree with me specifically those who are on the other end of this town called Politicsville.
Like what I have always said, do not think that being laid off from work is the end of the world.
There will always be doors and windows that will open for you if you just gather youself together, clear your head, and do not let your emotions get the better of you. I understand, and I have felt it too. Getting axed always will get you doubt your abilities. Feelings like you are not good enough creeps up your brain, damaging your ego, paralising you to think that your situation may have just improved, better than those who are left at the shop you just left.
As long as you know what you want, finding your way to get it is just a matter of time and sometimes, we need to be in grave situations to be able to get our brains working on hyper-drive.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
How to Deal with Sudden Unemployment
If you just became unemployed, you are probably dealing with a lot of different feelings right now, one of them being fear. Unemployment makes you wonder how you are going to make ends meet, what you will do if you become ill and what you are going to do next. Find out how to answer all these questions and perhaps ease your fear.
Here's how to cope up:
1. Find out if you are eligible for government unemployment benefits. If you are, submit your claim as soon as possible to an HRDSC office near you.
2. Visit an employment center near you and inquire for your options. A lot of people do not know that as an unemployed, there are a lot of programs that the government has created to deal with specific needs of the working force.
3. Review what skills and knowledge you have aquired. Most immigrants carry with them skills and work experiences but are not able to practice what they have because employers does not trust them that they are competent enough. Determine if a formal training would give you the advantage that you would not have even if you already have the skills. Employers are always skeptical of what you say you have if you do not have a proof (i.,e. a certificate). A Case Manager
from the employment center can help you.
4. Self employment is one option that you may want to consider. Ask your Case Manager about government programs that deal in this area
Here's how to cope up:
1. Find out if you are eligible for government unemployment benefits. If you are, submit your claim as soon as possible to an HRDSC office near you.
2. Visit an employment center near you and inquire for your options. A lot of people do not know that as an unemployed, there are a lot of programs that the government has created to deal with specific needs of the working force.
3. Review what skills and knowledge you have aquired. Most immigrants carry with them skills and work experiences but are not able to practice what they have because employers does not trust them that they are competent enough. Determine if a formal training would give you the advantage that you would not have even if you already have the skills. Employers are always skeptical of what you say you have if you do not have a proof (i.,e. a certificate). A Case Manager
from the employment center can help you.
4. Self employment is one option that you may want to consider. Ask your Case Manager about government programs that deal in this area
Options
If you are laid off, you have a number of options, depending on the precise circumstances of your separation with your former employer. In some cases, you may be entitled to severance pay,unemployment, and other benefits which will help you while you look for another position. In other instances you have no benefits or legal protections, and you need to start checking the job market right away. In either case, you can help yourself out by planning ahead; try to set aside some money in savings every month so that you will have a safety cushion if you suddenly become unemployed.
It is important to distinguish between being laid off, being fired, and quitting. If you are laid off, your employer lets you go, often with others, because the employer no longer needs your services or can no longer afford to pay you. In this instance, you are usually entitled to preferential hiring, meaning that if your position opens up later, you can have it back. Your company may also be required to keep you on the benefits roll for a set period of time, and you may be offered severance pay for a few weeks or months, depending on your position. Most importantly, if you are laid off, you can file a claim for unemployment compensation with the government to get financial assistance.
If you are fired, your employer lets you go because you are not suitable for a position or because you have committed a gross act of negligence. In this case, you cannot collect unemployment from the government, and your company is not required to offer severance pay. However, if you are unlawfully fired and you can prove it, you may be able to regain your position or sue your employer for damages. When you choose to quit, you have no safety net at all, as a voluntary loss of a job is not grounds for compensation.
You should know your rights in terms of benefits and severance pay. Research your local laws and read your employee manual carefully so that you understand which benefits, if any, will be offered in the event that you are laid off. These benefits may also vary depending on what rank you have with the company; an executive, for example, usually receives more benefits than a janitor. Check with your union as well, if you are in a unionized workplace, as the union representative can inform you about your rights.
In any event, when you lose your job, you generally need another one. If you are fortunate enough to be able to collect compensation because you were laid off, don't be lazy; start looking for new jobs right away so that you have more flexibility and choice. Check job listings especially for the industry you work in, and consider applying directly to companies you like. Make sure to set up a strong resume so that you will make an appealing candidate, and be clear with yourself about what you need from a your new job. Don't take a position that isn't ideal, as you will only find yourself looking for work again in a few months.
It is important to distinguish between being laid off, being fired, and quitting. If you are laid off, your employer lets you go, often with others, because the employer no longer needs your services or can no longer afford to pay you. In this instance, you are usually entitled to preferential hiring, meaning that if your position opens up later, you can have it back. Your company may also be required to keep you on the benefits roll for a set period of time, and you may be offered severance pay for a few weeks or months, depending on your position. Most importantly, if you are laid off, you can file a claim for unemployment compensation with the government to get financial assistance.
If you are fired, your employer lets you go because you are not suitable for a position or because you have committed a gross act of negligence. In this case, you cannot collect unemployment from the government, and your company is not required to offer severance pay. However, if you are unlawfully fired and you can prove it, you may be able to regain your position or sue your employer for damages. When you choose to quit, you have no safety net at all, as a voluntary loss of a job is not grounds for compensation.
You should know your rights in terms of benefits and severance pay. Research your local laws and read your employee manual carefully so that you understand which benefits, if any, will be offered in the event that you are laid off. These benefits may also vary depending on what rank you have with the company; an executive, for example, usually receives more benefits than a janitor. Check with your union as well, if you are in a unionized workplace, as the union representative can inform you about your rights.
In any event, when you lose your job, you generally need another one. If you are fortunate enough to be able to collect compensation because you were laid off, don't be lazy; start looking for new jobs right away so that you have more flexibility and choice. Check job listings especially for the industry you work in, and consider applying directly to companies you like. Make sure to set up a strong resume so that you will make an appealing candidate, and be clear with yourself about what you need from a your new job. Don't take a position that isn't ideal, as you will only find yourself looking for work again in a few months.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Out Cold
Whether you had been laid off or fired from work does not really matter anymore as thousands of people not only in North America lost their job, but all over the world. The more important question now is where to get the resources that is vital to the survival of the families that rely on the earnings of those who toil to feed themselves and those that are under their responsibilties.
In countries like Canada and the US where almost everything is insured including pets, a job loss does not necessarily means the end of the world. Some (and that includes me) even regard this situation as a blessing. Another door openning towards a more fruitful and meaningful opportunity. Nevertheless, some people could become utterly depressed by the loss of the job they had been hanging on to for most of their lives.
Therefore, I will attempt to find solutions even if they are just hopeful directions that may or may not directly help financially but might encourage people to keep on going on living with the hope that a bright future is just around this bend that we are trying to navigate right now.
In a few days, this blog will become a bucket full of links and informations to find a job, create a source of income, or just a place to hang around for those who are looking for a change in direction in their careers.
In countries like Canada and the US where almost everything is insured including pets, a job loss does not necessarily means the end of the world. Some (and that includes me) even regard this situation as a blessing. Another door openning towards a more fruitful and meaningful opportunity. Nevertheless, some people could become utterly depressed by the loss of the job they had been hanging on to for most of their lives.
Therefore, I will attempt to find solutions even if they are just hopeful directions that may or may not directly help financially but might encourage people to keep on going on living with the hope that a bright future is just around this bend that we are trying to navigate right now.
In a few days, this blog will become a bucket full of links and informations to find a job, create a source of income, or just a place to hang around for those who are looking for a change in direction in their careers.
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