Your cover letter for a Canadian job will help employers notice you! And importantly, it can help determine whether or not a recruiter contacts you for an interview. While there is some debate over the need for a cover letter, it’s essential. Your cover letter format can help you to stand out among other candidates and give you a key advantage. With a cover letter for a Canadian job, hiring managers will notice a compelling story about your skills and achievements. On the other hand, a poorly written letter reflects a casual attitude that may affect your ability to land a job.
Often, newcomers spend time and energy writing a strong Canadian-style resume, but fail to write a cover letter. This approach can lead nowhere. Without a compelling cover letter, it’s easy to get caught in a spiral of rejection from employers or settle for a job that isn’t well-suited to you.
While it’s time-consuming to write a letter that is worthy of notice, it’s time well spent. Many Canadian employers agree that a great letter can make all the difference when selecting who they will interview. However, if the job posting clearly states that a cover letter is not required, you can avoid it. This will also show that you can follow instructions. So, if you’re wondering if you need a cover letter to include with your resume, the answer is yes!
What is a Cover Letter?
It’s an important element when you apply for a job in Canada. A proper cover letter format allows you to share information about yourself that goes beyond what’s on your resume or CV.
A strong cover letter uses clear and concise language and states what is relevant to the job posting. It’s like a sales pitch to convince an employer that you are the right candidate for the position.
The Cover Letter Format
While you can find many generic cover letter samples, it’s better to write your cover letter yourself and tailor it to the specific job and company that you are applying to.
Research and identify why you want to work at that company. Take the time to express it in your cover letter. If you can’t express why you want to work for the company in your cover letter, you’ll struggle to answer that question in an interview. Thorough research will help you identify if your experience, career goals, and values align with those of the company and the position.
Your research will also help you to identify what you admire about the company. For example, has the company successfully expanded in the marketplace? Has the company won a coveted award? Or is it an industry leader in an area that you are passionate about?
Cover Letter Sample
This cover letter sample includes six main sections:
Section 1: Contact Information:
Include your:
name
address
phone or cell phone number
email address
LinkedIn Address
Tip Create a personal LinkedIn profile URL that looks professional and current.
Section 2: Employer Contact Information
Include this address format for the employer:
Name of the contact (if you have it)
Title of the contact
Company name
Company address
Section 3: Greeting
If the job description mentions the name of the hiring manager, begin with Dear Ms. (or Mr.) followed by their surname. If you’re unsure of the person’s gender, it’s best to use Dear followed by their first and last names.
When the name of the hiring manager is not provided, try to find their name on the company website or through LinkedIn. Alternatively, it’s appropriate to use “Dear Hiring Manager” for the salutation. But, do make an effort to find a name. It’s that much more personal, and your effort will show.
Avoid using “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam”.
Section 4: Introduction
A great cover letter format will grab the hiring manager’s eye with a compelling opening statement. Explain why you are interested in the position. Show that you want to work for that specific organization. Convey that you’re excited about the role. Employers love to hear that you’re excited about the company and that you have done your research.
Answer these questions:
Why do you want to work for this company?
What excites you about the opportunity?
Section 5: Body
Describe what you can offer the employer. Draw on your experience and results that relate directly to the job. And help the reader to see why you’re the best candidate.
Make it easy for the reader to connect the dots. For example, your ability to speak multiple languages makes you an ideal candidate for a customer service role. Describe what makes you different from every other qualified applicant. Ideally, this section should be one to two paragraphs.
Answer these questions:
What challenges or pain points is the hiring manager or company facing?
How have you solved similar challenges in the past?
How are you qualified, and why are you the right person to solve their challenges?
What are three to five qualities that you would bring to this employer or job? For example, are you creative, collaborative, or innovative?
Asking yourself these questions will help you build a foundation for your cover letter format and make it easier to write.
Canadian Style Resume Template
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This final section is more than just closing your letter. It’s about opening the door to further contact. This is where you state what your next action will be. For example, you could state that you will phone or email the reader to follow up or arrange a time for an interview.
It’s also a great opportunity to express your genuine excitement for the role, along with your initiative.
Research the company before you write your cover letter
Grab the reader’s attention within the first few sentences
Tailor your letter for each job you apply for
Explain how you can help the company achieve its goals
Be clear and concise
Keep your letter to a half- or two-thirds of a page to keep the reader’s attention
Proofread your letter for spelling and grammar errors.
Use a generic cover letter
Repeat what’s on your resume
Cut and paste the job description into your cover letter
Provide unnecessary details (recent struggles, or why you were laid off from a job).
Writing a great cover letter for a Canadian job is a time-consuming process, but the reward it pays is worth your effort. As a result, a well-written cover letter will pave the way for more job interviews and give you a greater chance to secure a job in Canada that’s perfect for you!
Canadian Style Resume Template
Writing an effective Canadian-style resume can be challenging. That’s why we are here to help. Our free Canadian-style resume template will give you all the information you need to create a resume tailored to the Canadian job market.
This template takes all the guess work out of creating your resume, so you can focus on what matters the most- getting the job.
1. Have the right technology for your virtual interview
2. Minimize distractions
3. Ensure you have good lighting
4. Create the right setting
5. Pay attention to your attire
6. Prepare yourself for the interview
7. Conduct research for the virtual interview
Why are Virtual Interviews Common?
A virtual interview (or video interview) is common because it helps recruiters to reach a more diverse and global pool of applicants. It’s also a cost-effective way to screen job candidates. So if you’re searching for a job either from your home country or in Canada, you can expect to attend a virtual interview.
As with a face-to-face interview, it’s important to prepare for a video interview. However, in addition to researching, and preparing answers for common questions, you have to consider technical needs. For example, you need to ensure that you have the basic elements that include a:
– Computer with a built-in or external video camera
– Built-in microphone or headphones
– Reliable internet connection, and
– Suitable location to speak that is free from distractions.
When you consider these extra factors, you can expect to have a successful interview, secure a follow-up interview, and hopefully get the job offer you want! In addition, preparing for the technical aspects of a video interview will ensure that you remain calm before and during your interview. Attending a job interview can be stressful, and a virtual interview may require additional effort to improve your performance.
What is a Virtual Interview?
A virtual interview uses technology to allow for a remote discussion between you and the interviewer. Some common conferencing platforms include:
Video interviews are becoming more common as companies look to reduce costs, save time, and increase efficiency. As well, during COVID-19, it offers a way to limit physical contact. However, even when the pandemic is controlled, you can expect that video interviews are here to stay.
To improve the outcome of your interview, you need to prepare for common questions and consider the technical factors. And while there have been many enhancements to video conferencing, you need to prepare for potential issues. For example, during a video interview, you may experience a connection problem, communication delays, or video and audio quality issues. Hopefully, none of these issues occur, but it’s best to be prepared to deal with them.
Seven Tips for a Successful Virtual Interview
Knowing that your technology works well before the interview will give you more confidence. And, you won’t have to fumble during the interview if something does not work. You want to show that you’re confident in a virtual setting. When you prepare in advance, you’ll be able to focus on the conversation. These seven tips will contribute to your success.
1. Ensure You Have the Right Technology
Ensure your computer’s audio and camera work effectively before the interview. Check that your microphone is not set to mute and your camera is on. It’s also a good idea to use earphones instead of the microphone on your computer to improve the sound quality.
A sharp and clear video image will make you look both professional and presentable. If you have an older computer, you may want to consider buying an external webcam if the video image is poor.
You also want to make sure that you have access to a good internet connection. However, as with any technology, there’s always a possibility that things won’t work. If you think you might have a problem, you may want to ask the interviewer for a telephone number if the video or audio stops working.
It’s a good idea to test your equipment the day before the interview so that you have time to correct any issues.
2. Minimize Distractions
To improve your performance it’s important to be focused and present. To do this, select a location where background noise is limited. Before the video interview remember to:
– Turn off the TV
– Put your phone on mute
– Turn off any notifications on your computer
– Close windows to avoid honking horns or sirens in the background.
If you have children or pets, keep them out of sight and hearing range.
3. Ensure There is Good Lighting for Your Video Interview
Proper lighting for your virtual interview can help you appear engaging and lively. You want to avoid your interview seeing just a dark shadow of your face on the screen. A good forward-facing light source will ensure that you are visible.
Also if the light is coming from behind you from a window or other light source it can create a harsh silhouette.
4. Create the Right Setting for Your Virtual Interview
It’s important to appear professional and that includes paying attention to your backdrop and location. Choose a location that is most like an office. It’s best to sit in front of a background that is simple and neutral. Make sure that the space is neat and organized.
Or, you may choose to use a virtual background if you can’t find a suitable space. You can find free virtual backgrounds for Zoom, Skype, and other video conferencing software.
5. Pay Attention to Your Attire
Some people feel much more relaxed in online environments and that also applies to their dress code. However, it’s important to consider the first impression that you want to make. So dress for success and treat your online interview with the same respect that you would for a face-to-face interview.
It’s safer to err on the side of dressing more formally rather than too casual. Also, avoid wearing accessories and jewelry that might distract the interviewer. You want them to focus on your expertise. You can also consider the colour of your clothing. Some colours that work best on the camera include navy, light blue, grey, beige, and jewel tones.
When you dress the part, you’ll feel polished and professional. And, this can give you an important boost in your virtual interview. How you feel can affect how you speak and sound. As well, your dress and speech convey helpful cues and clues to give a good visual impression to the interviewer.
Even in a virtual setting, you have to be aware of your personal brand. This is a great chance to show your future employer that you are digitally savvy, current, and professional.
6. Prepare Yourself for Your Video Interview
Attending a job interview can create stress and anxiety for most people. There is often much at stake which contributes to being nervous. This is completely normal. Some people are very comfortable in a virtual environment, but if you need help to manage nerves pay attention to your body language. These are important things to remember:
– Show interest through your posture and body language
– Remember to smile. Smiling makes you appear confident and comfortable.
– Maintain eye contact with your interviewer. Look at your video camera rather than the screen.
– Speak clearly and slowly to ensure effective communication
– Prepare responses to common interview questions
– Prepare questions for the interviewer.
7. Conduct Research Before the Virtual Interview
As you would for a face-to-face interview, thorough research is key. To research any company, you can go directly to the company’s website. This will provide you with the most credible source of information. You can also scan the news for relevant information about the company.
As you conduct your research, think of questions that will show your interest in the company and knowledge of the industry. Interviewers will give you a chance to ask questions during or at the end of your interview. And, well prepared and thoughtful questions show your passion for the role.
You may want to ask the interviewer to describe the ideal candidate for the role. This answer will allow you to assess what skills you have that will contribute to your success in the role. In addition, the interviewer might identify an area or skill that you may not have discussed. This is a great chance to discuss that skill or strength and help them to assess your suitability for the role.
Another helpful step is to research the interviewer. If the interviewer has a profile on LinkedIn, you can get a sense of their background and learn something about their professional background that you have in common. This can provide you with a sense of connection and build rapport during your interview.
As virtual interviews become a common practice with employers, it’s a great chance to show your technical savvy, communication skills, and interest. With these tips, you can ensure that you will have a positive experience and improve your chances of getting the job offer.
For more information, tools, and free webinars visit the finding a job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals in Canada!
If you’re moving to Canada, you’re likely thinking about how you can start your job search before you arrive. And that’s smart!
When you start your job search before you arrive, you’ll improve your chances of landing a job in your chosen field.
So here are four activities to help you get focused!
Start your job search by researching the Canadian job market You likely have plenty of skills, knowledge, and experience that Canadian employers will find attractive. But, if there is little labour demand in your field, it may take longer than you expect to find a job that you will find satisfying.
When you start your job search, it’s important to conduct labour market research. That way, you can learn what provinces and cities have a greater need for your skills and knowledge. For example, you may find that smaller cities or northern communities have a greater demand for skilled labour. Larger cities such as Calgary, Toronto, or Vancouver will likely have jobs in your field, but the job market may be more competitive. In addition, smaller cities may offer other benefits such as:
– Lower cost of living
– Reduced competition for jobs
When you conduct labour market research, find out about the:
– Workforce overview for your profession
– Labour market trends
– Demographics that may be affecting your industry (for example, more people are leaving the workforce as the population ages, creating a labour demand in many industries).
Some important questions to consider:
What trends that may impact the industry? Are there new growth areas within the industry in Canada? What skills, knowledge, or experience do you have that will be highly valued or in demand? Are there skills and knowledge that you may have to acquire or develop?
Take advantage of pre-arrival settlement services to start your job search There are many pre-arrival services designed to help immigrants to Canada. Settlement services help newcomers adjust to life in Canada, and this includes help with employment services.
Some examples of pre-arrival services related to working in Canada include:
– Finding job search tools and resources – Preparing your resume for the Canadian workplace – Getting your credentials recognized – Finding labour market trends for your industry in Canada
You can find information about occupation, or sector-specific organizations that can help you with your job search. For example, the British Columbia Construction Association Integrating Newcomers program matches people with a construction background to jobs across the province, even before you arrive in Canada! There are many free programs like this that are funded by the Canadian government and are free to join.
Improve or enhance your language skills
Canada has two official languages: English and French. If you can communicate in either one or both of these languages, that’s a huge asset. However, you may need to improve or enhance your language skills to be more effective in the workplace.
You may want to take language classes before you leave, and continue after you arrive in Canada. Most professions use jargon that can make it difficult for newcomers in the workplace. When you arrive in Canada, you can take language training that is specific to your job or occupation. Language training is available for different occupations including:
– Health care – Information technology – Business, and – Other occupations
Your language skills will be essential to find work in your field and to perform well in the workplace. When you complete language training that is specific to your occupation, you’ll be able to communicate effectively with your clients, co-workers, and managers.
Use LinkedIn to approach recruiters to help you start your job search
While it can be a little more difficult to search for a job when you haven’t yet arrived in Canada, it’s still possible to begin the process. One way to begin is to reach out to recruiters on LinkedIn to make initial contact. To work in Canada, you’ll need a Social Insurance Number and you can only apply for that once you have arrived.
If you connect with recruiters in Canada, be clear about:
– when and where you expect to arrive in Canada – what industry and types of jobs you’re searching for – your career goals and professional strengths
Recruiters may be willing to work with candidates who have not yet arrived, especially for job fields that are in high demand such as IT and the financial sector. This is where your labour market research comes into play. If you know where labour shortages exist, you can use this to your advantage.
Recruiters may want to conduct an initial screening interview by video conference to assess your:
– strengths, skills, and knowledge – communication skills – body language and professional style
As with any job search, it takes time, persistence, and effort. You may find it easier to start your job search once you have arrived, but at least you can start to make connections.
So while it may involve more work to land a job from abroad, you can start your search before you arrive in Canada. And when you get a head start, you’ll reduce the length of your job search and set yourself up for career success!
Working in Canada | How To Get Your First Job In Canada
Are you moving to Canada soon or already here? Do you need to find a job? Would you like to find good resources for finding employment in Canada? If so, join us for a free webinar where you can ask an expert your questions. We’ll discuss what you can do to make yourself more marketable to potential employers.
You can get ready to work in Canada well before you even arrive. Researching the job market, and understanding what Canadian employers are searching for is vital. At Prepare for Canada, we provide tools, resources, and information to help you get ready for your job search! Here are four activities that will help you to get ready to work in Canada.
1. Devote Time to Your Job Search
It takes effort to find a great job, so be sure to devote time to important job search activities. You may have to spend time revising your resume to include information that Canadian employers look for.
When you know what employers look for, you can tailor your resume so that employers notice your skills and experience. Preparing a well-written resume takes time, but it’s worth the effort because it may reduce the time it takes you to find a job.
You will also have to apply for many jobs. One application will likely not be enough to get the job that you want in Canada. But, by applying for jobs on a frequent and regular basis, you’ll start to get responses from employers. It takes patience and focus to land a job that you are best suited for.
Join our free webinar to learn helpful strategies to accelerate your job search:
Working in Canada | How To Get Your First Job In Canada
Are you moving to Canada soon or already here? Do you need to find a job? Would you like to find good resources for finding employment in Canada? If so, join us for a free webinar where you can ask an expert your questions. We’ll discuss what you can do to make yourself more marketable to potential employers.
This is easier said than done, but many great programs are available to newcomers to help with job search activities to help you stand out. One way to stand out is to get your credentials assessed. This is helpful because it shows Canadian employers you have the skills and knowledge to perform a similar job in Canada. The Government of Canada can provides valuable information that explains how to get your credentials assessed.
By taking this step, you ensure you can work in Canada. You may discover that you require more training to get ready to work in Canada. But when you know what’s required, you’ll be in a better position to get the training you need.
3. Be Responsive and Professional
Once you start to hear back from potential employers, make sure to respond to them as quickly as you can. This shows your interest and professionalism. Make sure that you put your best foot forward with each point of contact that you have with an employer. Use formal language and provide any additional information that they may request.
4. Stay Positive
You may have heard this tip often, but it’s always a good idea to stay positive and not get easily discouraged. If you don’t hear back from your first few Canadian job applications, then just keep applying until you succeed.
When you’re positive, you’ll make a great first impression. A positive attitude combined with a strong skill set shows Canadian employers that you’re motivated, talented, and eager to start your first job in Canada.
Opening a bank account before you arrive in Canada offers many benefits including transferring funds before you travel to Canada. Also, when you land in Canada, immigration officials may ask you to show proof of funds. When you open a bank account before you arrive, you can easily prove that you have available funds.
Canadian banks are among the most solid, secure financial institutions. The Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) provides insurance to protect eligible deposits made to CDIC-member banks. And for Canadians, knowing their money is CDIC-protected is reassuring!
How to Choose a Bank in Canada
It’s necessary to open a bank account in Canada. Most Canadians rely on their bank to:
Receive paycheques
Pay bills
Save money and earn interest.
To select a bank, you can visit the bank’s website to compare services and fees. While many banks have national branches and automatic banking machines (ABM) networks, it’s best to select a bank that has branches in the community where you will live.
Also, when you open a bank account, you will receive a statement that includes your mailing address. You can use your statement as identification when you apply for:
Government services
A provincial health card, or
A driver’s license.
Arrive in Canada Financially Prepared
Join us for an eye-opening session on how to build your financial future in Canada with confidence. This free webinar is hosted in partnership with Scotiabank, a trusted leader in newcomer banking.
Together, we’ll guide you through how the Canadian banking system works and share free tools and strategies to help you plan, save, and invest wisely as a newcomer.
Banks offer a wide range of accounts to choose from, and that can be overwhelming. But keep in mind that most newcomers will require a chequing account to deposit funds, write cheques, and pay bills. You will also need a debit card to deposit and withdraw funds from an ABM or branch. You may also want a higher-interest savings account and credit card.
Banks offer banking service packages at low-cost monthly fees. For example, the Scotiabank StartRight™ Program for Newcomers*¹ offers low-cost options to meet your banking needs. To help you make your important banking decisions, Scotiabank can explain your options in the language you prefer and provide personal support at the bank branch.
Feel free to ask for an explanation if there is anything you don’t understand. The role of the bank employee is to provide quality customer service and answer any questions you may have. You don’t have to worry about asking questions or taking up too much of their time.
Most importantly, get answers to your questions and only sign a contract when you’re confident you understand the terms.
Documents You Need to Open a Bank Account
To open a bank account in Canada, you will require the following documents:
Permanent Resident Card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence
One piece of government identification, such as your passport or driver’s license
International students require a letter of acceptance from a Canadian educational institution and a study permit.
If you are a foreign worker, you will require a valid passport and work permit.
To open a bank account, you must go to a local branch in person and have two original pieces of identification. You will have an interview with a bank employee who will:
Discuss different banking options
Suggest the right bank account based on your needs
Explain your rights and responsibilities, and
Help you complete the paperwork.
Millennials are finding franchising success as the franchise ownership demographic is starting to change. The millennial cohort is the generation born between 1980 and 2000 and represents approximately 9.8 million people in Canada.
Millennials are also the most ethnically diverse generation that Canada has ever seen. This diversity contributes to innovative thinking, enhanced creativity, and access to broader networks and relationships. The bulk of immigrants to Canada is millennials because Canada’s immigration point system favours younger applicants.
You may think the typical franchise owner is someone established looking to leave a corporate gig, or a baby boomer with a high net worth, but that’s changing. Millennials are finding franchising success and it may just be a perfect fit.
[cjtoolbox name=’Franchising For Newcomers Ebook LP 2′]
What Millennials Offer to Franchisors
For franchisors, the millennial cohort can provide:
A solution to retiring baby boomers leaving the franchise system
Access to an energetic, passionate, educated, and tech-savvy talent pool
Opportunity to shape owners who will be leading the business.
Millennials value mentorship, expertise, and teamwork. This is invaluable since franchisees succeed when they can tap into training, support, and business know-how.
What Franchisors Offer to Millennials
For millennials, the franchise model provides benefits that include:
A business framework and set of tools for those who may lack years of business experience
Strong training programs to develop or enhance business skills to operate a business
Access to a network of existing franchise owners for support and guidance
Marketing and other critical expertise from a recognized brand
Opportunity to jumpstart business and entrepreneurial goals
These combined benefits can reduce the burden of building a new business from scratch, yet still appeal to the entrepreneurial goals of millennials. Millennials could well be the future of the franchise industry.
How to Increase Franchising Success
The franchise industry in Canada has seen double-digit growth in recent years and the number of new franchise brands and outlets continues to grow. There are over 78,000 franchise units in Canada, and 4,300 new franchise outlets open each year. With such a broad expanse of franchise brands to select from, here are some things millennials can consider to increase their franchising success:
Search for Brands that Match Skills and Education:
Millennials are highly educated so take advantage of your academic background to increase your franchising success. For example, educators may want to pursue franchise categories related to educational products and services.
Do Your Research:
Millennials are resourceful so put that skill to use and explore franchise categories and potential franchisors. The Franchise Disclosure Document provides extensive information about the franchisor.
Speak to Other Franchise Owners:
The Franchise Disclosure Document provides a list of current franchisees. Arrange to speak with franchisees to find out more information about the franchisor, industry trends, and their franchising experience (both positive and negative) to avoid any surprises.
While franchise fees can be expensive and even prohibitive for millennials, franchisors offer a range of investment levels and some may be as low as $10,000. Determine what available cash you may have and look to other financing options that may include:
Traditional bank loans
Supplemental financing from friends and family
Canada Small Business Financing Loan
Millennials are finding franchising success and the mutual benefits that franchisors and millenials offer each other could be a perfect partnership.
Visit the Franchise Consulting Company for information to help you make an informed franchising decision. Whatever your decision, we can help you decide if franchising is right for you!
There are many activities to prepare to move, and here are the top 8 things you need to know before you go to Canada.
Many newcomers land in cities in Canada where jobs are abundant. But, job opportunities are not only in Toronto and Vancouver.
To decide where to immigrate and to prepare for the Canadian job market, Maziar Taheri, an Iranian electrical engineer, made two short trips to Toronto before he moved to Canada with his family. During these trips, Taheri met with friends in Ontario to:
talk to them about job opportunities in Canada
ask how they managed their businesses
spend time at their workplaces
gather information about the standard of living in Canada.
He says the trips gave him a realistic view of the job market and saved him a lot of time, money, and struggle when he finally immigrated to Canada.
“Some people decide to move to Canada without knowledge of the job market here,” he says, “and when they come, they have to spend a lot more energy – and they also risk spending more money than necessary. It can be a great pain for some of them and it can also reflect on their families. In fact, they could have done something in their countries to better prepare and save time and money. To me, these two short trips helped me get a better start in Canada.”
Skills upgrading to prepare for the Canadian job
It took seven months for Taheri to find a professional job he likes. In the first two and a half months in Canada, he attended two courses for internationally trained professionals through ACCES Employment Services. The first one was Sales and Marketing Connection at Humber College, Toronto. In addition to sales and marketing in Canada, the program included resume writing and interview skills.
Immediately after he finished the two programs, Taheri started working for a small company in Toronto. Unfortunately, the company was not in good financial standing and couldn’t pay him the salary he deserved. So, two and a half months later Taheri was unemployed, looking for another job.
That was his most difficult time in Canada. “I heard from my friends that looking for a job was a full-time job and I realized that it was true,” he says. “Sometimes I was working 12 hours a day – writing resumes, reading job postings and companies’ websites, going to job fairs and to interviews. But, I had made the decision to come to Canada and start my life here. I was determined to get a good job and I am happy that I found it.”
“I tried to socialize with immigrants, who had started years ago and have succeeded. I tried to learn about their experiences, to hear how they solved their problems, what their approach was and this helped me a lot.”
To cheer up and stay motivated during his job search, Taheri avoided talking to negative people and instead socialized with successful friends and acquaintances with a positive attitude. ”Everywhere we can find people with low spirit and pessimistic views,” he says, “but it doesn’t help to communicate with them – focusing only on problems and difficulties doesn’t help. So I tried to socialize with immigrants, some of them already Canadian citizens, who had started years ago and have succeeded.
I learned about their experiences, how they solved their problems, what their approach was and this helped me a lot. I realized that all of them started with challenges, but they tried to keep a balance, and to make realistic plans to solve things step-by-step. It took them time and energy but, they succeeded and I enjoyed listening to their stories.”
Jobs are not only in Toronto and Vancouver
As an electrical engineer with experience in EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) projects, oil and gas, and industrial equipment sales and marketing, Taheri found his current job in Calgary. He now works for one of Canada’s leading engineering companies.
“When I was planning to move to Canada,” he says, “most of my friends were landing in Toronto, and we also had relatives in Vancouver. So in my mind, I only had two alternatives –Toronto and Vancouver. I decided to land in Toronto because I had close friends there. At that time, I didn’t know much about Calgary.
Living in Calgary, Alberta
Little by little, I understood that something interesting was going on there – related to my experience and my education. And, I decided to move to Calgary. Now I am happy to live here. If I knew about Calgary before coming to Canada, I would have moved here directly, but unfortunately, I didn’t have enough information.” I realized after moving to Canada that job opportunities are not only in Toronto and Vancouver!
Taheri thinks Calgary has a more relaxed and harmonious society. There is a reason for that. “The weather is not very nice,” he explains. “Winters are very cold and very long. For that reason, non-professional people won’t come to Calgary. Very few newcomers would land here – most of the immigrants go to Toronto and Vancouver, which has resulted in the existence of many different societies, appearances, and behaviours there.
As for Calgary, mainly professionals who have jobs move here. Those who come have very clear ideas about their career goals. They also earn enough income to meet their financial needs. This makes the society more balanced and steady. Also, there are fewer crimes here. I like Vancouver– it is very beautiful and has good weather, it is nice to visit, but I prefer to live in Calgary.”
Although he found a professional job and stability in less than a year, Taheri thinks skilled immigrants should be patient. They should be prepared for it to take the first two to three years in Canada to gain the same life standards they had back home. Also, he advises newcomers’ spouses to be understanding and all family members to remember why they have left their own countries, relatives, and friends. Taheri also recommends new immigrants carefully spend their savings and avoid taking financial risks in their first years in Canada.
Successful franchisees demonstrate common personality traits that make them a great fit for franchising. As many new Canadians achieve success in franchising, it’s interesting to look at how personality traits may contribute to their success.
And a 2016 Statistics Canada study revealed that immigrants to Canada are more likely to own businesses than Canadian-born citizens. As well, there is growing research that shows immigrant entrepreneurial success is greater than that of Canadian-born entrepreneurs. And franchise businesses are fueling small business growth in Canada.
One of the reasons that new Canadians decide to buy a franchise is because of the type of franchisor support that they can expect to help achieve success. So, this is often a key point when deciding between becoming a franchisee or starting a new independent business. Many people will conclude that their chances of success will increase with the systems and support that a franchisor provides.
If you think that franchising makes sense, you may have decided it makes sense to pay for the right to use the franchisor’s brand, standards, and knowledge. In addition, a strong franchisor can often provide expertise in specific business functions, such as marketing or finance, that you may not have. However, it’s important to recognize that:
1. The level of franchisor support can vary.
2. Franchisor support will be clearly defined in the Franchise Disclosure Document and Franchise Agreement.
3. You need to do your own research to understand what support you’ll receive.
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Types of Franchisor Support that You can Expect
Now, let’s explore four common types of franchisor support:
1. Initial Training:
You can expect to perform well when you select a franchisor to help you master the basics. And, training that is provided in your initial stages will help you achieve franchise success.
Your initial training will provide you with a broad overview of operations, marketing, sales, service, and general management. And, this may include:
Operations training to develop skills and knowledge to run your franchise
Financial and business systems training
Employee selection and retention training (if applicable)
Operations manuals and standard operating procedures
Your training begins after you sign your Franchise Agreement, and continues for as long as you own the franchise. And, your franchisor wants you to succeed! So, that means providing you with tools, resources, and knowledge right from the start.
2. Marketing and Advertising Support:
All franchisees are required to pay an Advertising Fee (usually 1 – 4% of gross sales). So, paying an advertising fee means that you do not have to create an advertising plan or marketing materials all on your own. In return for this fee, you can expect to receive:
A marketing plan that extends past the grand opening of your franchise
Tools to support brand building and promotional campaigns
Guidance in local and regional marketing activities
Professional marketing materials such as posters, brochures, banners, and other items.
3. Site Selection:
Not all franchisors will assist with site selection and site location is critical to your business success. But, if your franchisor doesn’t provide site selection support, you can usually get guidance related to:
preferred business square footage
parking requirements
and, other information.
So, be sure to read what site selection support you can expect in the Franchise Agreement. And, discuss how you can work with the franchisor to select a great site.
After you have completed your initial training, the ongoing support that you receive is essential. This support is generally provided by the franchisor to:
Help you to improve the performance of your franchise
Ensure you’re operating your business to brand standards
Help you to grow your business
Other ongoing support can be related to supply chain; management training; and new products and services. This support can be a huge benefit. Your franchise team is likely working with other franchisees who have dealt with similar issues that you will face so, this knowledge may help you to reduce, if not avoid mistakes.
So, franchisor support can be a large benefit and critical to your success. You may even make your franchise selection decision based on the support you’ll receive to start your business on the right foot. The ultimate goal is your franchise success and ability to benefit from the franchisor’s proven systems and support.