11. Want to Work in Canada? Start with your Network!

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What problem does networking solve for newcomers planning to move to Canada?

Emma Charlin 0:10
Welcome to Canada, the podcast that helps you prepare for your Canadian adventure with clarity and confidence.
Emma Charlin 0:30
Hello future newcomers and welcome to your Canadian PrepZone. You're listening to episode number 11 and it is recorded in August 2025. I'm Emma Charlin, your host and your international mobility coach. I'm here to help you prepare, plan and thrive in your move to Canada. Today I'm going to talk about networking in Canada. Perhaps you have already heard this sentence. Without a good network in Canada, you're doomed. Ouch! That's a tough statement, right? But it probably caught your attention, didn't it? It's because there is a lot of truth in that. So now you're wondering, what exactly is a network? How do I build one? And how do I do that from abroad without knowing anyone? Well, that's exactly what we're unpacking today.

How does the host define a 'network' and why is it not just nepotism?

Emma Charlin 1:26
Let's dive in. First of all, what is a network? A network isn't a fancy club that you have to pay to join. It is simply a group of people with whom you share something. This could be a shared interest, a shared background, a shared workplace, a shared school, or even a good conversation. Your network can be personal or it can be professional. Your network can be five people or 500. The key is that your network gives you access to opportunities you wouldn't have on your own. Let me give you an example. Imagine Jessica, who appreciated your work during an internship. She introduces you to Jordan, who just heard that Jack is leaving the company. What's your name? Jade. Because in this story, it seems everyone's name starts with the letter J. All of a sudden, you are in the running for a job that wasn't posted anywhere yet.

How can networking create access to unposted job opportunities in Canada?

Emma Charlin 2:32
Why? Because someone thought of you and mentioned your name. That's the power of networking. Wait, is networking pulling strings? Is it nepotism? No, it's not, my friend. It's not the same. Pulling strings or nepotism occurs when someone gives a job or gives a favor to a friend or family member just because they are close, not because they are qualified. It's like skipping the line while everyone else waits their turn. Networking is about creating opportunities. It is about being visible and memorable. When someone in your network recommends you, they aren't giving you a job. They are giving you an opportunity. They are saying, hey, I think Jade is worth meeting. They are putting their reputation on the line to open a door for you.
Emma Charlin 3:30
What happens next? That's on you and on you only. If you shine, you earned it. If you flop, well, you own that too. And now a word from our sponsor. Hey, but there is none. Oh yeah, that's right. I'm the sponsor of the show right now. Today's episode is sponsored by my book, Cost of Moving to Canada, The Ultimate Guide. Would you like to move to Canada, know what expenses to expect, maximize your income, know how to create a budget, all with practical case studies to help you? Read my book, Cost of Moving to Canada, The Ultimate Guide. It's the essential companion you need to have in order to successfully manage your budget and your project in Canada. And now, back to the show. Let's talk tools. In Canada, LinkedIn is your best friend.
Emma Charlin 4:28
But what should you do on the platform? Before you send any message, update your profile. I mean it.

Which online tools should newcomers use first to start building a Canadian network?

Emma Charlin 4:36
Update your profile. Update your photo, write a good headline, and add your experience. Make yourself look like someone worth meeting. Once you're ready, start reaching out to people you already know. Reach out to people from your school or who worked at the same companies as you. Some of them may even be in Canada or know people in Canada. Comment on posts from professionals in your field. Like, share, engage. I know, it can feel like you're talking into the void. And maybe that is to some extent. But in Canada, 2% response rate is actually good. That's one response for every 50 messages. So keep going. However, LinkedIn is not the only place to build a network. Get creative before you land in Canada. Use Instagram, TikTok, Reddit, whatever you prefer.
Emma Charlin 5:37
Join webinars in your field. Be active in the chat.

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