How to find and keep a job in Alberta

Employers in Alberta expect their employees to be part of the company team, communicating, participating and taking responsibility in the workplace. Employers value both technical skills and soft skills. Educational credentials, work experience, assessments and eligibility for professional licensing in Alberta all influence hiring decisions. In addition, employers make their final hiring decision based on what essential skills complete the personal profile of the candidate.

Soft Skills

Soft skills or people skills define a range of general abilities that a person develops through their interests, professional development, life or work experience. Examples of soft skills include self-awareness, analytical thinking, leadership, team building, flexibility, creativity, problem solving, effective communication, diplomacy, and adaptability to change. Soft skills are essential to succeed in the new economy as employers are looking for more than strictly technical and professional competency.

At Directions for Immigrants, our Workplace Communication Groups will help you to strengthen your soft skills.

The Clear Communication for Business workplace communication group focuses on overcoming communication barriers, interacting professionally in the workplace and learning about Canadian workplace culture.

The Clear Communication for Health Professionals workplace communication group focuses on helping participants develop interpersonal skills that are necessary to establish helpful and professional relationships in a healthcare workplace.

Both groups are one week long and meet each day for 5 hours to learn a series of workplace essential skills.

Micro Loan Programs

Skilled immigrants and refugees can apply for micro loans to help continue their careers in Canada.

Define Your Skills, Values and Work Style (Self-Assessment Tools)

Use online self-assessment tools or quizzes that will help you understand what skills and values you can bring to the workplace.

Cover Letters, Resumes, Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Salaries

There are many websites that provide tips on how to write a good cover letter and explain what style of resume is most appropriate for your needs. Salary information on various occupations is also listed.

Career Planning

See the whole picture of how to think about your career path from defining your skills and values to researching the labour market and education programs that suit your needs. Define your long-term goals and devise a plan of action for yourself.

Job Posting Websites

Directions for Immigrants
Bow Valley College, West Campus
219, 300 - 6th Ave. SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0G5
Map

Work Search and Employment Strategies