Step 6

Searching for Jobs

Starting a job search is a big step. Whether you’re looking for your first job, a new opportunity, or a career change, we’re here to to help you through it.

On this page, you’ll find advice on writing your résumé, applying for jobs, getting ready for interviews, networking, and using job boards. Let’s start this journey together and find the job that fits you best!

Starting a job search is a significant step, and we’re here to support you through it.

Whether it’s finding your first job, seeking a new opportunity, or considering a career change, this page offers straightforward guidance and resources to help you. Here, you’ll find easy-to-follow advice on creating your résumé, applying for positions, preparing for interviews, networking, and using job boards effectively. Let’s start this journey together and find the job that fits you best!

On this page:

Getting Ready

Creating Your Résumé

Writing Cover Letters

Using Job Boards

Networking

Preparing for Interviews

Employment Services

Getting Ready

Think about what kind of job you want and what you’re good at, if you haven’t already. Remember, finding the right job is about matching what you like to do with what employers need.

Creating Your Résumé

Your résumé is like a story about your work life that you tell to employers. Here’s how to make it great:

What to Include

Share your skills and experiences. List your jobs, what you did there, and the good things you achieved. What to include

Keep it Simple

Use clear and simple words. Your résumé should be one page long.

Look at Examples

We have sample résumés for different types of jobs. Use them to help create your own.

SAMPLE RÉSUMÉ

Administrative Assistant

SAMPLE RÉSUMÉ

Carpenter

SAMPLE RÉSUMÉ

Educational Assistant

Writing Cover Letters

Sometimes you need to send a cover letter with your résumé. It’s like a hello letter to introduce yourself.

Be Brief

Just write a few sentences about why you want the job and why you’d be good at it

Be Yourself

Show a bit of your personality and interest in the job.

No Repetition

Don’t just repeat what’s in your resume. Add something new about you.

SAMPLE COVER LETTER

Administrative Assistant

SAMPLE COVER LETTERÉ

Carpenter

SAMPLE COVER LETTER

Educational Assistant

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HOW DO I…Use AI for Job Application Help?

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What is AI?

AI stands for “Artificial Intelligence”. It’s a smart tool that can help you with many tasks, including checking your résumé and cover letter. Think of it as a helpful assistant who knows a lot about writing.

Once you’ve written your résumé and cover letter, you can use AI tools like ChatGPT to help you look your best to prospective employers.

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What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is just one AI tool that you can use to help you build your job application. ChatGPT runs interactively with a simple chatbox interface. You can find ChatGPT on the website chat.openai.com. There, you can start asking your questions by typing them into the text box at the bottom of the screen. ChatGPT will answer your question. If you need more help, just keep asking more questions!

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How to Use AI for Your Résumé and Cover Letter

1

Before You Start

Don’t ask ChatGPT to write a résumé or cover letter for you. It does not know your personal details and might make things up instead. Write the first draft yourself.

2

Write Your First Draft

Start by writing down all your experiences, skills, and education. Don’t worry about making it perfect. Just get everything down. Follow one of our sample templates if you’re not sure what to include.

3

Ask ChatGPT for Help

Copy and paste your résumé or cover letter into the chat with ChatGPT. Ask for feedback by typing requests. Say things like “Please check my résumé for mistakes” or “Can you help me make my cover letter sound better?”

4

Make Changes

ChatGPT will give you suggestions. It might fix spelling and grammar or suggest better ways to say things. Read them carefully and decide which ones to use. After making changes, ask ChatGPT to review it again.

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Tips for a Great Résumé and Cover Letter

1

Be Clear and Simple

Use straightforward language and keep your sentences concise.

2

Highlight Your Strengths

Showcase what you are good at and what you are proud of.

3

Be Honest

Always tell the truth about your skills and experiences.

4

Final Check

Before sending your résumé and cover letter, read them out loud. This helps you catch any last mistakes and ensures everything sounds right.

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Using Job Boards

Job boards are websites where you can find lots of job listings.

Search Smartly

Use keywords and locations to find jobs you like.

Set Alerts

Get emails when employers post new jobs that match what you’re looking for.

Apply Online

Follow the steps on the job board to apply for jobs you’re interested in.

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HOW DO I…Use Job Boards to Search for Jobs?

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What is a Job Board?

A job board is a website where employers post job openings. You can search for jobs, read about what they need, and apply online.

Some popular job boards are Indeed, LinkedIn, and Charity Village. There are also job boards just for Indigenous job-seekers, like Indigenous Careers.
Job boards are a great place to start when you’re looking for a job. Let’s learn how to use them!

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Steps to Use Job Boards

1

Create an Account

Sign up with your email address. Fill out your profile with your name, skills, and work experience. This helps employers find you.

2

Search for Jobs

Use keywords related to the job you want. For example, type “teacher” or “carpenter.” You can also search by location to find jobs near you.

3

Read Job Descriptions

Click on the job titles to read more about them. Look for jobs that match your skills and interests.

4

Apply for Jobs

Follow the instructions to apply. This usually means clicking “Apply” and sending your resume and cover letter. Some job boards let you apply with just one click if you have filled out your profile.

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Tips for Using Job Boards

1

Check Often

New jobs are posted all the time. Check the job boards regularly.

2

Use Filters

Many job boards let you filter jobs by type, location, or date posted. This helps you find the best matches.

3

Set Up Alerts

Some job boards let you set up email alerts. They will send you new job postings that match your search.

4

Be Prepared

Make sure your resume and cover letter are ready before you start applying. You can use AI tools like ChatGPT to help you proofread and polish them.

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Canada’s Job Bank

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The Government of Canada’s Job Bank is a great resource for researching jobs. You can get information on jobs in your area, how much they pay, skills they require, and more.

Visit the Job Bank

Indeed

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Indeed is the biggest job board in Canada. It can show you jobs from lots of places, like other job boards, newspapers, and company websites.

Visit Indeed

CharityVillage

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CharityVillage is a job board for Canadian non-profits and charities. If you want a job that lets you make a difference, this is a great place to look.

Visit CharityVillage

Aboriginal Job Board

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The Aboriginal Job Board is meant for Indigenous job-seekers. If an employer wants to hire an Indigenous person, they can post their job listing here.

Visit the Aboriginal Job Board

Networking

Talking to people about your job search can help a lot.

Connect with Others

Share with friends, family, and community members that you’re looking for a job. They might know about opportunities.

Use Social Media

Platforms like LinkedIn can help you connect with employers and find jobs.

Attend Events

Going to job fairs and community events can help you meet people and learn about jobs.

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HOW DO I…Network?

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What is Networking?

Networking means talking to people and building relationships that can help you in your job search. These people might know about job openings or give you good advice.

Networking takes time, and not every conversation will lead to a job. Keep trying and don’t get discouraged. Every connection you make is a step forward!

Here are some things you can try to help you with networking.

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Steps to Start Networking

1

Make a List of Contacts

Think about people you know: family, friends, teachers, and community members. Write down their names and how they might help you.

2

Reach Out

Start a conversation. You can call, send a message, or talk to them in person. You can say something like: “Hi, I’m looking for a job and wondered if you know of any opportunities or have advice.”

3

Join Groups and Events

Look for job fairs, community events, or online groups where people talk about jobs. Introduce yourself and let people know you are looking for a job.

4

Use Social Media

Create a profile on LinkedIn. It’s a social media site for professionals. Connect with people you know and join groups related to your career interests.

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Tips for Successful Networking

1

Be Friendly and Respectful

Show interest in what others have to say.

2

Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or information.

3

Share Your Goals

Let people know what kind of job you are looking for.

4

Follow Up

If someone gives you advice or a job lead, thank them and let them know what happened.

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Preparing for Interviews

When you get a chance to interview for a job, here’s how to get ready:

Practice Answers

Think about questions they might ask and practice your answers.

Dress Nicely

Wear clean and neat clothes that fit the job you’re applying for.

Be on Time

Arriving a little early shows you’re serious about the job.

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HOW DO I…Prepare for a Job Interview?

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What is a Job Interview?

A job interview is an opportunity for an employer to learn more about you, and for you to ask questions about working for them.

Job interviews can feel scary, but they don't have to be! Here are some tips to help you get ready.

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Steps to Prepare for an Interview

1

Research the Employer

Learn about the employer you're interviewing with. Find out what they do, their values and mission, and recent news about them.

2

Get Your Outfit Ready

Pick out neat, clean clothes that make you feel confident. Make sure they are appropriate for the job.

3

Plan Your Route

Know how you'll get to the interview location. Give yourself plenty of time in case of delays.

4

Practice Deep Breaths

Take some slow, deep breaths before you go in. This can help you stay calm and focused.

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Tips for a Successful Job Interview

1

Make Sure You Have What You Need

If your interview is in person, be sure to bring a copy of your résumé, a list of your references, and a notebook and pen so you can take notes. If your interview is virtual, all of the above still applies, but you’ll also want to make sure your device is charged, the lighting in the room you’re in is good, and your background is tidy.

2

Ask Questions of Your Own

Have a few questions ready to ask the interviewer. Ask them about a typical day at this job, what they like about working there, and what skills are important for success there.

3

Be Prepared to Talk About Yourself

The interviewer may ask about your skills and strengths, your interests and hobbies, and your goals for the future.

4

Follow Up with a Thank-You

It’s always a good idea to send your interviewer an email after your interview thanking them for their time and reiterating your interest in the position.

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Let’s practice!

Read the example questions, then try to think of how you would answer them.

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“Tell me about yourself.”

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“What are your strengths and weaknesses?”

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“Why do you want to work here?”

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“Tell me about a challenging situation at work and how you handled it.”

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“Why should we hire you?”

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“Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”

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“Do you have any questions for us?”

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Employment Services

There are places that can help you look for work and get ready for your job search.

Local Resources

Find out about job help centres near you. They offer support like resume writing help and interview practice.

Online Help

There are websites with tools and advice for your job search.

Community Connections

Indigenous employment services understand your unique needs and offer personalized help.

Remember, finding a job can take time. Stay positive, keep applying, and use all the resources available to you. You’re not alone in this journey!

Still need help?

Learn more about ISET