Working Canadians Are the Backbone of Our Economy
Working Canadians are the backbone of our economy. They spend a lot of time at their job and often put in extra hours at home to get work done.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought increased attention to the experiences of these workers. Their stories are remarkable and deserve to be heard.
What is working life like in Canada?
Working in Canada can be very different from what you’re used to. Bi-weekly paychecks, multiple short breaks during work hours, casual clothing on Fridays, and relatively structured work days are just a few of the ways Canadian working culture differs from many other countries. However, newcomers can rest assured that Canada’s hospitable nature and willingness to help will make it easy for them to find their feet in the workplace and adapt to local standards.
In terms of the working environment, it is worth noting that many Canadians view their careers as a significant part of their identity. They are prone to talk about their work when discussing themselves with others, and often use it as an indicator of how well they are doing in life.
This focus on work is reflected in the country’s laws and regulations. For example, all employees have access to Employment Insurance benefits which can be used to supplement their income in the event of a redundancy or severe financial hardship. Furthermore, workers with five years at a company are entitled to two weeks of paid vacation time, while those with less than this amount receive only one week. Additionally, employers must not discriminate against an employee based on their race or gender. These and other laws protect the rights of all working Canadians, no matter where they live or what their profession is.
What is the minimum wage in Canada?
The minimum wage is the lowest hourly pay rate that employers can legally offer workers. Its purpose is to ensure that workers are paid adequate compensation and to protect them from exploitation. Moreover, it also serves to stimulate economic growth by providing employees with the incentive to work more hours.
It can be difficult for people who earn the minimum wage to make ends meet in some parts of Canada where the cost of living is higher. In fact, according to a recent Leger survey, half of young Canadians live paycheque-to-paycheque. The good news is that several provinces guarantee a yearly increase in the minimum wage to keep up with inflation and the cost of living.
Each province sets its own hourly minimum wage rate and may also have a different wage for certain categories of employees (e.g. domestic and live-in care workers, farm labour and homeworkers). It is important to know the hourly minimum wage rate for the province where you will be working so that you can calculate your salary based on the applicable laws.
In Canada, the ten provincial governments (including those of the three territories) have authority to enact and enforce labour laws, including the minimum wage, which is delegated to them by federal legislation. However, some provinces allow lower wages to be paid to liquor servers and other gratuity earners and to inexperienced employees.
How do I find a job in Canada?
If you’re dreaming about wide open spaces, diverse cities, moose and friendly people, then Canada may be the right place for you. This massive country is often viewed as an easier immigrant destination than its southern neighbor, and it offers a variety of jobs for newcomers in many industries.
If you plan to seek employment in Canada, you’ll need a strong CV and cover letter. You should tailor your resume to a specific job posting, and highlight transferable skills that will be valuable in a Canadian work environment. Be sure to avoid using any information that can identify you, such as your age, ethnicity or religion. You should also consider having your education credentials assessed and certified to ensure that they’re up to par with a Canadian credential.
Some occupations in Canada are regulated and require licensing. You should check with your local regulatory body to determine whether you’ll need a licence before moving to Canada and to see what the process looks like.
It’s important to network in your field and with seasoned professionals, both before you move and once you arrive. Having connections can help you find employment faster and make your transition to the workforce a smooth one. Consider joining LinkedIn and participating in virtual coffee chats with seasoned professionals to build your network. You should also learn about the job search culture in Canada and what to expect during interviews.
How do I adapt my working style in Canada?
In Canada, employees are expected to be punctual and dependable. It is considered rude to keep people waiting, even if you are in a senior position, so if you know that you will be late to a meeting, send a message or call ahead to let your coworkers know when they can expect you.
Canadians value teamwork and collaboration. You should be prepared to participate in discussions and contribute your ideas, regardless of your rank or seniority. Decision-making is often participative, and hierarchies are less rigid than in other countries.
Body language is also important in the workplace. Make eye contact when interacting with your colleagues, and don’t hide your face behind your hair or arms. Likewise, avoid crossing your legs or crossing your arms to show that you are nervous or uncomfortable.
Finally, it is important to be respectful of other cultures and to learn about the work culture of your industry and company. Each office will have its own cultural realities and norms, but there are some general expectations that you should be aware of in order to succeed in the Canadian workplace. These include: