sample resume for canadian government jobs

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Writing a Canadian Government Job Resume

Aug 16, 2024

Applying for a job with the Canadian government requires a specific approach to resume writing. Government positions are highly competitive, and your resume must align with strict guidelines and highlight your qualifications effectively. This guide will explore how to create a standout resume for Canadian government jobs, focusing on the key elements, best practices, and how ATSResumeCanada.com can help you succeed in this rigorous process.

Understanding the Canadian Government Job Market

The Unique Nature of Government Jobs

Government positions in Canada come with their own set of expectations and requirements. These jobs often involve working within a structured environment with clear roles and responsibilities. Key characteristics of government jobs include:

• Rigorous Application Process : Government job applications often involve a detailed process, including specific resume formats , competency-based questions, and extensive background checks.
• Focus on Public Service : Many government positions emphasize serving the public and contributing to the community. Your resume should reflect your commitment to public service and demonstrate how your skills align with government values.
• Clear and Structured Roles : Government roles often have well-defined job descriptions and qualifications. Your resume must clearly showcase how you meet these requirements.

Key Requirements for Government Job Applications

Government job applications usually require specific information and follow precise formats. Common requirements include:

• Clear Formatting : Government resumes often require a structured format with clear headings and sections.
• Detailed Job Descriptions : You must provide detailed descriptions of your work experience, including specific duties, achievements, and skills.
• Competency-Based Responses : Government job applications frequently include competency-based questions. You must provide detailed responses that demonstrate how you meet the required competencies.

Key Elements of a Canadian Government Job Resume

1. Professional Summary

The professional summary is a crucial section of your resume, offering a snapshot of your qualifications and career goals. For Canadian government jobs, your summary should:

• Align with Job Requirements : Tailor your summary to reflect the specific requirements of the government position you are applying for. Use keywords and phrases from the job description to align your resume with the role.
• Emphasize Public Service Experience : Highlight any experience related to public service or working within a government setting. Showcase your commitment to serving the community and contributing to public goals.
• Showcase Key Competencies : Include key competencies required for the role, such as project management, policy analysis, or stakeholder engagement.

Example : “Dedicated public service professional with over 7 years of experience in policy development and program management. Proven track record of working effectively within government structures and delivering results that align with public service objectives. Skilled in stakeholder engagement, project coordination, and strategic planning.”

2. Work Experience

The work experience section is critical for demonstrating how your background aligns with the requirements of government positions. Focus on the following elements:

• Detailed Descriptions : Provide comprehensive descriptions of your previous roles, including specific duties, responsibilities, and achievements. Use bullet points for clarity and include quantifiable results where possible.
• Relevant Experience : Highlight experience that is directly relevant to the government position. Emphasize roles that involved public service, policy work, or government-related tasks.
• Competency-Based Examples : If the job description includes competency-based criteria, provide examples that demonstrate how you meet these competencies. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses.
• Policy Analyst, Department of Public Affairs January 2018 – Present “Conducted in-depth research and analysis to support the development of public policy initiatives. Coordinated with stakeholders to gather input and provide recommendations. Led a project to streamline policy review processes, resulting in a 25% reduction in review time.”

3. Education and Certifications

Include relevant education and certifications that support your qualifications for the government role:

• Degrees and Diplomas : List your highest level of education, including any degrees or diplomas relevant to the role. Highlight any coursework or projects that are pertinent to government work.
• Certifications : Include certifications related to the role or field, such as project management certifications, public administration diplomas, or specialized training in policy analysis.
• Master of Public Administration (MPA) – University of Ottawa
• Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) – Project Management Institute

4. Skills and Competencies

Government job resumes should clearly highlight the skills and competencies required for the role. Focus on:

• Technical Skills : Include any technical skills relevant to the position, such as proficiency with government databases, software applications, or analytical tools.
• Soft Skills : Emphasize soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. These skills are often crucial in government roles, where collaboration and effective communication are key.
• Competency-Based Skills : Reflect the specific competencies mentioned in the job description, such as strategic planning, policy analysis, or program management.
• Technical Skills : Proficient in MS Office Suite, data analysis software, and government reporting systems.
• Soft Skills : Strong interpersonal communication, strategic thinking, and effective problem-solving.

5. Professional Development

Showcase your commitment to ongoing learning and professional growth:

• Training and Workshops : Include any relevant training or workshops you’ve attended, especially those related to government work or public administration.
• Professional Memberships : List memberships in professional organizations related to your field, such as the Canadian Public Administration Association or the Canadian Association of Policy Analysts.
• Public Policy Workshop – Completed workshop on advanced policy analysis techniques.
• Member, Canadian Public Administration Association – Active member of an organization focused on public administration best practices.

Best Practices for Writing a Government Job Resume

1. Follow Government Resume Guidelines

Government job applications often have specific guidelines for resume formatting and content. Ensure you follow these guidelines closely to avoid disqualification. Use the required format and include all requested information.

2. Use Clear and Structured Formatting

Government resumes should be well-organized and easy to read. Use clear headings and bullet points to structure your resume. Avoid complex formatting or graphics that may distract from the content.

3. Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills

Focus on experience and skills that are directly relevant to the government position. Tailor your resume to showcase how your background aligns with the job requirements and demonstrate your suitability for the role.

4. Provide Detailed Responses to Competency-Based Questions

If the application includes competency-based questions, provide detailed responses that use the STAR method. Describe specific situations, tasks, actions, and results to illustrate how you meet the required competencies.

5. Proofread and Edit

Ensure your resume is free from errors by proofreading and editing carefully. Attention to detail is crucial for government job applications, where accuracy and professionalism are highly valued.

How ATSResumeCanada.com Can Help

Creating a resume for Canadian government jobs can be complex, but ATSResumeCanada.com offers valuable services to enhance your application:

1. Expert Resume Writing

Their team of professional resume writers can help you craft a resume that meets government standards and effectively highlights your qualifications. They ensure your resume is tailored to the specific requirements of government positions and optimized for success.

2. Compliance with Government Guidelines

ATSResumeCanada.com is familiar with government resume guidelines and can help you format your resume according to specific requirements. They ensure your resume meets all necessary criteria and adheres to the required structure.

3. Competency-Based Responses

Their experts can assist in crafting detailed responses to competency-based questions, using the STAR method to provide clear and impactful examples. This helps demonstrate your qualifications and align your resume with government expectations.

4. Professional Formatting and Optimization

ATSResumeCanada.com offers professional formatting services to ensure your resume is well-organized and easy to read. They also optimize your resume for ATS to improve your chances of passing through automated screenings.

FAQs: Writing a Canadian Government Job Resume

1. What is the format for a Canadian government job resume?

Answer : Canadian government job resumes typically require a clear and structured format with specific headings and sections. Follow any guidelines provided in the job posting, and use bullet points for clarity. Include detailed descriptions of your work experience and achievements.

2. How do I address competency-based questions in my resume?

Answer : Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to address competency-based questions. Provide detailed examples of how you’ve demonstrated the required competencies in your previous roles. Focus on specific situations, tasks you were responsible for, actions you took, and the results achieved.

3. What should I include in the professional summary for a government job resume?

Answer : Your professional summary should highlight your relevant experience, skills, and commitment to public service. Tailor your summary to reflect the specific requirements of the government position, using keywords from the job description and emphasizing key competencies.

4. How can I make my resume stand out for government positions?

Answer : Tailor your resume to the specific job requirements, highlighting relevant experience and skills. Use clear formatting, provide detailed descriptions, and address competency-based questions with specific examples. Ensure your resume meets all government guidelines and includes keywords from the job description.

5. What are common mistakes to avoid when writing a government job resume?

Answer : Common mistakes include failing to follow government resume guidelines, using complex formatting or graphics, neglecting to highlight relevant experience and skills, and providing vague responses to competency-based questions. Ensure your resume is clear, structured, and tailored to the job requirements.

Writing a resume for Canadian government jobs requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specific guidelines. By focusing on key elements such as a professional summary, work experience, education, and skills, and by following best practices, you can create a resume that meets the rigorous standards of government applications.

For expert assistance in crafting a resume that aligns with government requirements and maximizes your chances of success, visit ATSResumeCanada.com . Their professional services can help you create a standout resume that meets Canadian government standards and enhances your application.

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Plan & Pricing

How to write a resume for a Canadian government job

Today, I show you how I structure my resume for government jobs. In the next couple of videos, I will be covering the most common questions I get about the government hiring process.

Want to learn my process for applying for government jobs?

Our D.I.Y Course Fedjobs help you understand what happens at each stage of the hiring process and provides honest advice from the applicant’s perspective. I also share my techniques to “tick all boxes” in the process to ensure your application moves forward to the next step. 

Here is what you will learn

6 videos that walk you through the major steps in the hiring process:

Reading the job posting

There are a lot of acronyms and jargon in Government of Canada job postings that can be hard to decipher. I'll teach you how to analyze a job posting so that you can understand exactly what is being asked for.

Preparing your application

The first step in the application process are the screening questions, which can be very time consuming to complete. I'll show you how to formulate your responses and how to create a system that will help you apply for multiple jobs fast.

Written exercise

In my opinion, this is the most challenging part of the application process. I'll show you the key elements that should be included in a high quality written exercise and how an exercise can be structured.

Federal government interviews are not your typical interview, they are extremely structured and impersonal. They are, however, usually easier to prepare for because you will know in advance what you will be asked about. I'll teach you how to prepare for the interview and how to structure you answers to get as many "points" as possible.

Final steps

Depending on the type of competition, there are a few different things that can take place once you have successfully passed the interview stage. I'll go through the different scenarios and outline what to expect from situations like reference checks and receiving a letter of offer.

Plus additional resources

3 templates that will be useful tools for allowing you to efficiently apply for jobs, nail your written tests and present your best self during an interview. 

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Government of Canada Resume and Cover Letter Samples

Let your resume do the work.

Join 5,000,000 job seekers worldwide and get hired faster with your best resume yet.

• Insider’s Guide to getting a job in the Canadian Government for Professionals
• Insider’s Guide special report on Resumes and Cover Letters
• Public Service Entrance Exams
• Graduate Recruitment Test
• Written Communication Proficiency Test
• 2022 Post Secondary Recruitment Campaign – Everything you need to know
• Insider’s Guide to Getting a job in the Canadian Government for Post Secondary Recruitment Applicants
• Insider’s Guide Special Report on Resumes and Cover Letters for Students
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Testimonials
• About The Author

Government of Canada Resume Tips

It is important to note that resumes and cover letters for hiring managers in the Canadian Federal Public Service must illustrate passion and drive.

In addition to giving government hiring managers something interesting to read, you also want to display to managers that you are confident of your skill set.

Here are a few important points that you must keep in mind:

Use action verbs. When drafting your resume ensure that you use action verbs that illustrate leadership abilities i.e.: resolved, supervised, increased, managed, conducted. Do not be humble but do not exaggerate your skills. Highlight your abilities in an accurate and concise manner.

Customize your resume. It is imperative that you customize your resume for every Canadian Public Service job competition. In addition to greatly increasing your chances of getting screened in, when your resume is reviewed by future hiring managers, they will be able to see the link with your past experience, your education, and the job that you are looking for.

Many individuals try to use the “one resume fits all” for the federal service job applications and do not understand why they are not screened in. Always customize each resume to the job that you are applying for.

Do not make a references section. Usually there is a separate form that asks for this information. You will waste space on your resume providing information that will not be checked until the final screening process.

I recommend that your resume spans a maximum of 2 pages. Apart from the fact that it will illustrate your strong written communication skills, most Government of Canada hiring managers will be reading multiple resumes in one day. They will appreciate your short, precise and detailed resume and be more inclined to read all of it.

Get your resume done professionally if you are not a strong writer, there are many community centres, career placement offices, and professional services that can write your resume for you for free or for a small fee.

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• 100+ pages of never seen before insider knowledge on obtaining highly sought after government jobs that will make you the envy of your peers.
• Clear steps and ready to use vocabulary that will land your new winning resume to the top of the pile...everytime, even if you're not good at writing.
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• Also included are free bonus chapters with amazing insider strategies on: Getting a job in the department of Global Affairs and how to excel in the highly competitive Post Secondary Recruitment (PSR) exams, even if you are not good at standardized tests.

Canadian Resume Format & How-to Guide for 2024

In This Guide:

Canadian resume template, what is the canadian resume format, what is the difference between a canadian and an american (us) resume, what is the difference between a canadian resume format and a european cv, how to write a canadian resume — what to include, getting a job in canada as an immigrant, faq about canadian resumes, key takeaways, how we wrote and reviewed this article.

Understanding the Canadian resume format is crucial whether you're applying for a job within the country for the first time, or you're a Canadian looking to refine your resume.

Canada plans to invite 1.45 million new permanent residents  by 2025 to address labor shortages and an aging population. This move not only aims to strengthen the workforce and ensure immigrant skills meet job demands  but also addresses challenges newcomers face in securing appropriate employment.

The country offers a unique blend of American and European characteristics, and this extends to its job application process, especially when it comes to resumes.

But how does a resume tailored for Canada differ from an American one? This guide provides all the details on what makes a Canadian resume unique, alongside practical advice and examples to help you craft a resume that could open doors to new opportunities in Canada.

Here's what we'll explore:

• The distinct features of Canadian resumes compared to American and European formats;
• A detailed guide on crafting your resume to meet Canadian standards;
• An exploration of frequently asked questions, providing thorough answers and insights;
• Advice for making your Canadian resume stand out to employers.

Plus much more! Let's begin!

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Enhancv’s Canadian resume template has been optimized to meet the demands of the Canadian resume format. It follows a chronological work experience section. Furthermore, it has no photo in the header, something that’s typically frowned upon in Canada.

Last but not least, Enhancv’s Canadian resume template supports a two-page resume format , which is one of the things that sets apart Canadian and US resumes.

Canadian resume examples for the most popular jobs

Registered nurse resume.

Registered nurses are in particularly high demand across Canada due to the COVID-19 pandemic and an aging population. There are several immigration pathways available for nurses looking to work in Canada .

Software engineer resume

Software engineers are in high demand in Canada , especially in provinces like Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Prince Edward Island. They earn an average annual salary of $127,379.03 CAD.

Administrative assistant resume

Administrative assistants are essential in keeping organizations running smoothly. They earn an average annual salary of $61,923.42 CAD, with high demand in provinces like Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and Yukon Territory.

Web developer resume

Web developers are in high demand in Canada's booming tech industry . The Global Talent Stream and various Provincial Nominee Programs provide pathways for web developers to obtain a Canada work permit.

Truck driver resume

Truck drivers are one of the most in-demand jobs in Canada , with a vacancy rate around 8%. They are needed across the country to transport commercial goods.

Other popular and in-demand jobs in Canada include electrical engineers , welders , veterinarians , licensed practical nurses , and accountants .

The Canadian resume format is a structured approach to presenting your work history and skills relevant to the job you're applying for. It starts with a header section that contains your name, phone number, current location, and email address. If you have a LinkedIn profile, include the URL in your contact information .

Many Canadian employers use LinkedIn to research potential candidates. Following the header, you need to put either a summary or objective to give a snapshot of your career goals and strengths. Next, the resume should detail your work history, education, and skills. Personal details like marital status and photos are not included, allowing the focus to remain on your expertise.

Making a resume for Canada is similar to the United States but for a few important differences. Both countries use resumes more than CVs, and they usually look alike. Yet, spelling matters a lot in Canada. Though Canada uses English, it also embraces French, affecting some English spellings. To make sure your resume fits Canadian preferences, follow these tips:

• Use Canadian spellings , like " behaviour " and " neighbour ," and prefer " theatre ," " labour ," and " defence ."
• Apply the metric system for measurements, showing familiarity with Canada's standards if applicable. For example, if you worked in distribution, you could mention “leading a team that distributed goods across a 300-kilometer area."
• Write dates in the DD/MM/YYYY format, which is common in Canada.
• Include graphic designs in your resume only if you look for a job as a graphic designer. Typically, Canadians don't include these elements when applying for a new position.
• Employ the services of the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials  to understand the Canadian equivalence of your credentials. Taking this step can help push your job search forward, yet it doesn't secure a job offer.

These small but crucial adjustments show you're ready to work smoothly in Canada. They show your ability to adapt and pay attention to local details, which is appealing to Canadian employers.

The Canadian resume format and the European CV serve as key tools in job applications, but they follow different conventions that reflect the job market and cultural expectations of their respective regions. The Canadian resume format is streamlined and job-focused, typically extending to a maximum of two pages  and emphasizing the candidate's most relevant experiences and skills for the specific position.

Moreover, in Canada, when we talk about a CV, we're referring to a very detailed document mostly used in academic settings, not for regular job applications. These CVs are pretty lengthy, going from two to ten pages, and they cover everything from your work history to your projects and any papers you've published.

European resumes, commonly called CVs in the Old Continent, tend to be more detailed compared to Canadian resumes. They include high school education and grades, regardless of higher educational achievements. This level of detail is unnecessary in Canada, where the focus shifts to post-secondary education and adequate work experience .

Another big difference is the inclusion of personal information. In some European countries, including a photo on your resume  is common and often expected by employers.

Including photos on your resume is not endorsed in Canada. Personal details such as date of birth, nationality, or other information that could potentially lead to discrimination are omitted in Canadian resumes.  

The goal is to ensure a fair evaluation process, focusing solely on professional qualifications and experiences.

Believe it or not, the Canadian resume is pretty similar to an American. However while the format is similar, the devil is in the details.

When looking for a job in Canada, picking the right resume format  is key because it really affects your chances of success. If you've been working for more than ten years, think about using a reverse chronological resume . This format lists your jobs from newest to oldest, making it easy to see how you've moved up in your career. It's a good way to show your experience in a clear way that employers like, especially in Canada.

In addition to the format, you also need to consider the template. It's important to choose a professionally designed resume template  which can enhance the readability of your resume and create a positive first impression with hiring managers. After you've selected your template, the next step is organizing your Canadian resume.

When creating your Canadian resume, start with a well-organized header that grabs attention . Include essential information like your name, job title, phone number, professional email, and LinkedIn link. Make sure your name matches what's on your professional records and online profiles to make it easy for recruiters to find you.

Moreover, it would be better to use a professional email provider  like Gmail or Outlook. Mention the job you're applying for, not your current position, to align your resume with the job listing. Just listing your city is enough for the location , especially if you're applying for jobs in different places.

Finally, when you include links to your LinkedIn or portfolio , make sure they're up-to-date and match your resume.

In Canada, including a photo on your resume is typically reserved for roles where appearance is a job requirement, such as in modeling or acting. For other jobs, adding a photo can look odd and might worry some employers, so better not to include it to avoid misinterpretations.

Jackson Thompson's resume header is thoughtfully organized and offers quick access to his contact and professional information.

Resume summary

Following the header, the career summary section  appears, offering a concise overview in no more than five sentences that show your key professional achievements. The professional summary focuses on your main strengths and skills related directly to the position's duties and responsibilities. After reading the information in this section, the recruiter has a better understanding of who you are and what skills and abilities you may bring to the position. Tailor this for every job application  to address the company and the position's requirements.

Let’s see an example:

This example shows the applicant's strong expertise in marketing and track record of achievements. Also, it puts the focus on specific skills and growth metrics that are important for Canadian employers.

Work experience

When creating your work experience section  list your previous jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. Include the job title, company name, location, and dates of employment. Describe your responsibilities, achievements, and contributions using bullet points.

Here’s an example of the structure:

• Begin with the latest job  and work backwards, but limit the history to the last 10 to 15 years. Older roles, like a college job, might not interest the hiring manager.
• Lead with the position title , which helps the recruiter assess if your experience aligns with the job requirements.
• Mention the employer's name and its location . For lesser-known companies, a short description might be helpful.
• State the period of employment using the DD/MM/YYYY format , which is concise and clear.
• Describe your responsibilities and accomplishments with 4-6 bullet points for recent roles and 2-3 for previous positions .

Check out the example:

• • Developed and executed a digital marketing strategy that resulted in a 30% increase in website traffic.
• • Managed social media accounts, growing the follower base by 25% in one year.
• • Coordinated with the sales team to create promotional materials that led to a 15% rise in sales.
• • Organized and directed market research studies to inform future marketing strategies.
• • Led a team in implementing innovative email marketing campaigns that boosted lead generation by 20%.
• • Spearheaded the redesign of the company website, improving user engagement metrics by 35%.
• • Established a content marketing plan that increased brand visibility and market penetration.
• • Optimized website content for major search engines, resulting in a top 5 ranking for key terms.
• • Analyzed web analytics to adjust SEO strategies and improve overall website performance.
• • Collaborated with the content creation team to ensure SEO best practices were consistently applied.
• • Assisted in the development and implementation of marketing strategies to enhance brand recognition.
• • Supported the organization of promotional events that led to increased customer engagement.
• • Conducted competitive analysis to inform the marketing team's strategy adjustments.

This example illustrates an effective way to organize your work history when listing multiple previous roles. It emphasizes the importance of conciseness while clearly detailing your responsibilities and successes.

Carefully read the job posting and identify the required qualifications and skills. Take note of particular keywords and phrases  used throughout the description to tailor the resume for the specific role.

The educational background  is an essential part of your Canadian resume and it comes right after the work experience. Here is the place to mention the degree, diploma, and certifications earned, the name of the institution, the location, and the year of graduation . Begin with your most recent educational achievement and proceed in reverse chronological order, mirroring the format of your work history section. Don't forget to highlight any honors or academic distinctions you've received.

For your Canadian resume, consider specifying this information in the education section:

• State the degree you've earned as your degree title .
• Identify the institution where you received your education  as your college or university.
• Include the location of your educational institution .
• Note the year of your graduation  or the anticipated graduation year as your completion date.
• Mention a minor study , for instance, "Minor in Digital Media," to demonstrate a broader skill set within the marketing field.
• List any certificates you obtained  related to your field of study.

Here's how this section can look:

• • Specialized Coursework: Advanced digital marketing strategies and data-driven marketing decisions
• • Graduated with Honors
• • Minor in Digital Media
• • Core Modules: Marketing principles, consumer behavior, and digital media strategy

This example demonstrates a structured approach to presenting your educational background. It shows how to effectively list degrees, institutions, and relevant coursework, ensuring that your qualifications are easily understood by recruiters in Canada.

You may need to have your documents translated into English, French, or both.

It is generally advised to keep the education section simple, ensuring it doesn't overshadow your skills.

Highlight your key skills relevant to the job. This can include technical skills, software proficiency, language proficiency, and any other abilities that showcase your qualifications for the position.

Skills on your resume are categorized into:

• Soft skills  refer to personal qualities and behaviors developed through both life and work experiences. These skills encompass communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving.
• Hard skills  stand in contrast as the specific technical know-how or proficiencies gained through education, training endeavors, or direct experience. For instance, in the context of finance, include specialized expertise like advanced Excel functions for financial analysis, familiarity with QuickBooks for accounting tasks, and adeptness in using Bloomberg terminals for market research.

When curating your skills list, focus on those most relevant to the job at hand. For a front-end developer position, for instance, your proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks such as React or Angular is more relevant than an unrelated skill like martial arts. Employers seek skills that make you an ideal fit for their specific needs, rather than a broad array of abilities.

To ensure your resume resonates with the job description, identify the employer's desired skills and make sure to include them in your Canada resume. Aim for a balanced presentation of both soft and hard skills tailored to meet the requirements of a front-end developer role.

The most in-demand hard skills in Canada for 2024 center around cybersecurity, data analytics, sustainability , remote work, and emerging technologies like generative AI . Employers are seeking candidates with specialized technical expertise in these areas.

And for soft skills, employers look for communication , adaptability , collaboration , critical thinking , and digital literacy . Overall, employers are looking for well-rounded professionals who can navigate the evolving job market and contribute effectively to their organizations.

Here’s how you might approach it:

When we talk about resume creation, language skills are more than just a mark of education. They're a bridge to diverse cultures and markets, making them vital in the Canadian job market. Adding languages to your Canadian resume shows your ability to communicate across different cultures.

In Canada, where English and French are widely spoken, being bilingual can significantly boost your job prospects. Including languages on your resume , along with your proficiency levels, signals to employers your capacity to adapt and connect in a multicultural setting. This section is crucial, distinguishing you as a candidate well-suited for the dynamic Canadian work culture.

Languages and additional courses both play a crucial role in enhancing your professional profile, so let's see how to present them properly in your Canadian resume.

This is an ideal moment to demonstrate your passion for learning. Include any relevant training, courses, or seminars to underscore your dedication to ongoing professional growth. It signals to employers your commitment to staying updated with industry trends and techniques, enhancing your appeal as a candidate.

Such educational achievements can be especially crucial in fast-changing sectors, evidencing your readiness to tackle contemporary challenges.

Start with your newest qualifications and list them in time order, similar to how you list job experience and education.

Let's go back to our example of Jackson Thompson, the Marketing Specialist, and check what courses would be relevant for him.

Securing a job in Canada as an immigrant is a significant step toward starting a new life. The process involves understanding eligibility criteria, choosing the right immigration pathway, preparing necessary documents, and planning for settlement. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through this journey.

First, determine your eligibility . Ensure you have at least a senior secondary education, a minimum of one year of relevant work experience, and proficiency in English or French, depending on where you plan to settle. You also need to meet the minimum points requirement on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) for programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) , Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) , or Canadian Experience Class (CEC) .

Next, choose your immigration pathway. The Express Entry system offers various programs. The FSWP is ideal for skilled workers with specific qualifications, while the FSTP caters to tradespersons with Canadian job offers or valid certificate qualifications. The CEC is designed for those with at least three years of Canadian work experience. Alternatively, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) offer a more accessible route and can integrate with the Express Entry system. If you have a family member who can sponsor your migration, family sponsorship might be an option . Business Immigration Programs are also available for investors, entrepreneurs, and self-employed persons looking to contribute to Canada’s economy.

Once you have chosen your pathway, prepare your application by creating an online Express Entry profile and uploading your qualifications. Gather all required documents, including proof of language proficiency (such as IELTS or TEF ), education (degrees, diplomas), work experience (letters, certificates), and other necessary documents like a clean criminal record and proof of settlement funds.

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for an invitation to apply (ITA) . For Express Entry, ITAs are sent to the highest-scoring candidates. For PNPs, you will need to wait for a nomination from the province. Once you receive an ITA or provincial nomination, submit your application for permanent residency (PR) . The approval process typically takes about six months for both Express Entry and PNPs.

As you prepare for settlement, ensure you have the required settlement funds—at least CAD$13,757 for a single applicant under Express Entry, and the necessary amount for your family size under PNPs. Plan your move by arranging housing, starting your job search in your field, and considering further language training to improve proficiency.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of successfully securing a job in Canada as an immigrant. Thorough preparation will ensure a smoother transition and help you integrate into your new life in Canada.

This part of our guide is your go-to resource for addressing frequently asked questions about crafting resumes for the Canadian job market. Learn how to create cover letters, tips for international applicants, and whether to choose PDF or.docx. Let's begin with the very first topic.

How do I navigate the Canadian job market as a foreigner?

Navigating the Canadian job market as a foreigner can certainly be a challenge, but with the right approach, it's definitely manageable. Here's your compass and map to find your way through.

Let's go forth with precise tips.

• Identify the industry you’re educated in and make your resume resonate with Canadian employers by thoroughly researching the Canadian job market .
• Start building your network  by participating in career fairs, making connections at professional events, and creating a solid LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills.
• Take on freelance opportunities  to gain valuable Canadian experience and integrate yourself into the local professional community.
• Utilize resources such as the Canadian government’s Job Bank  and immigrant-serving organizations  to find valuable assistance in your job search.  
• Demonstrate your readiness to thrive in Canada's diverse workplace by emphasizing your cultural awareness and language skills  in English or French.
• Boost your qualifications by taking courses or getting certifications  from well-known institutions or companies in your area. If we go back to our example for the Marketing Specialist Jackson Thompson, he should focus on acquiring certifications from renowned companies such as Google and Microsoft as these certifications are globally recognized and respected and would serve as a testament to an overseas candidate's skills and knowledge.
• Tailor your resume with each job description  and adapt your application to meet specific employer preferences, including Canadian spelling nuances. Remember, precision, like opting for 'colour' over 'color', demonstrates attention to detail.
• Keep a steady pace and stay resilient in your job search in Canada, and know that finding the right opportunity might take time but your efforts will eventually pay off.

Do I need a cover letter to pair with my resume when applying for a job in Canada?

It's a good idea to include a cover letter  with your resume. A cover letter lets you detail how your skills match the job and the company's needs. It helps you make a strong first impression and gives you space not only to demonstrate your enthusiasm about the position but also to present yourself professionally .

Here's some practical advice for your cover letter:

• Ensure your header aligns with your resume by listing your name, surname, job title, Canadian phone number, and professional email. You can also add a LinkedIn profile or personal website to make your application more engaging.
• Address the cover letter properly  in your greeting line, using 'Dear [Name]' or 'Dear Mr./Ms. [Surname].' If the name of the hiring manager is unknown, 'Dear [Department] Team' works well. This personal touch shows effort and interest.
• Start your cover letter with a powerful opening sentence that highlights your achievements or unique skills, capturing the hiring manager's attention and setting you apart from other applicants.
• In the body of your cover letter, go beyond your resume to tell a compelling story about your skills and experiences. Showcase how you can contribute to the company's success with examples of leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Conclude with a closing paragraph that encourages further dialogue, ensuring you include your signature line.

Open the door to your new job in Canada with our professionally designed cover letter templates . Use our intuitive cover letter builder  to make your own for free.

Should I save my Canadian resume as a .docx or a .pdf file?

The PDF format is highly recommended due to its consistent appearance on various devices and operating systems. It preserves your document's design and visuals and eliminates the risk of unintended edits by the recipient.

Job platforms in Canada commonly accept both PDF and Word documents. However, unless specified otherwise in the job posting, opting to submit your resume as a PDF  is advisable for preserving its intended presentation.

Include your full name in your document filename to make it memorable (i.e. Jackson-Thompson-Resume.pdf)

Do Canadians say “CV” or “Resume”?

In Canada, the terms "resume" and "CV" (Curriculum Vitae) are both used, but they have different meanings. A resume is usually one or two pages long and shows your skills and experience related to the job you want. It's meant to be quick to read and match the job description. Canadian employers prefer this direct and brief way of showing your capabilities.

On the other hand, a CV is much more detailed and covers your whole career, including education, publications, research, and big achievements. It's mainly used in fields like academia, science, and medicine, where showing the full scope of your work matters a lot. CVs are longer than resumes and can be much more than two pages, based on how much you've done in your career.

What NOT to include in my Canadian resume?

In Canada, your cover letter and resume should not contain personal details such as marital status, religion, gender, age, or sexual orientation. Additionally, unless you're seeking a role in modeling or acting, photos are unnecessary. Including such information not only wastes precious space but could also lead employers to bypass your application to avoid potential discrimination claims. It's worth noting that Canadian law prohibits  employers from requesting information regarding your sexual orientation, age, or ethnicity during the application process or interviews. To prevent placing recruiters or employers in a difficult position, it's advisable to exclude these details.

Furthermore, mentioning salary expectations or irrelevant personal interests is considered inappropriate.

• Canada's plan to welcome 1.45 million new residents by 2025 underscores the need for job applicants to craft resumes tailored to specific employer requirements and Canadian English standards.
• In Canada, a resume is concise and job-focused, unlike CVs, which are detailed for academic roles, differing from European CVs that include personal information.
• Adapting your resume for Canada involves using local spellings, the metric system, and specific date formats to meet employer preferences and show an understanding of local culture.
• Choosing the chronological resume format is crucial, along with selecting a professional template for a good first impression.
• Begin your resume with a detailed header and a summary that shows your excellent results from previous jobs and skills relevant to the job you're applying for.
• Including a cover letter with your resume is strongly advised, as it provides an opportunity to demonstrate your enthusiasm and willingness to contribute to the new workplace.

The team at Enhancv tries to provide the most up-to-date and accurate information — we often use a mix of internal data and external sources to create a cohesive, detailed picture of the topic at hand.

For this guide on canadian resumes we referred to our career coaching  team where they provided key insights from working with canadian clients — most sought after skills, the difference between a canadian resume style and the US resume. We also used news reports and statistics to form our opinion and advice:

• Employment and unemployment statistics in Canada (Statistics Canada)
• Resume writing tips for international students in Canada (Arrive)
• Transitioning to the Canadian job market (Moving 2 Canada)
• Working in Canada as an international student (Canada.ca)
• An Often Overlooked Jobs Indicator Points to Deep Cracks in Canada’s Labor Market (Bloomberg)

• Resume Guides

The Novice Guide to Creating A Plain Text Resume (Including Templates)

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El Zid Tabuzo (Zid), who handles the Brand ZT Canada, is a Filipino-Canadian who moved to Canada in May 2015 as a landed immigrant. Originating from the Philippines, he immigrated through the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), one of Canada's economic immigration programs.

Driven by a passion for sharing his immigration journey, Zid launched a YouTube channel in 2018 to provide insightful content to aspiring immigrants.

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Canadian Resume [Format, Tips & Examples for 2024]

Canada is a unique country that combines some traits you’ll find in the USA with some you’ll find in Europe.

This goes for resumes, too.

That’s why, when applying for a job in Canada, you have to make sure your resume conforms to Canadian application standards.

Naturally, you might be wondering - what does a Canadian resume even look like?

If you’re a foreigner, you’re likely drawing a blank trying to figure out what makes a Canadian resume different from the one in your own country. Even if you’re Canadian, you might still need to brush up on your resume writing skills.

Luckily for you, we’re here to show you how to write a compelling Canadian resume.

Here’s what we’re going to go over:

• Differences Between Canadian, US, and European Resumes
• Canadian Resume Formatting
• A Step-By-Step Breakdown on How To Write A Canadian Resume

And more!  Let’s get started!

Canadian Resume Example

Let’s take a look at a Canadian resume example:

Here’s what this resume does right:

• Reverse-chronological format. This format highlights your most recent work experience first and is a recruiter favorite all around the world.
• Relevant contact details. This resume example highlights the candidate’s first and last name, phone number, email address, location, and LinkedIn URL.
• Captivating resume summary. The paragraph nested in the header summarizes the candidate’s most essential skills and accomplishments.
• Action words. The candidate uses action verbs and power words to describe work responsibilities.
• Bullet points. The resume leverages bullet points to appear easy to read, organized, and reader-friendly.
• Additional sections. Language proficiency, certifications, awards, and interests all give a holistic view of the candidate and add value to their application.

Free Canadian Resume Templates

Creating a resume from scratch is time-consuming work. 

You need to twitch the margins, keep the fonts uniform, carefully align every element you add, and make sure it never spills over to page two.

But you can skip all that hassle if you use a resume template .

Novoresume’s templates are created in collaboration with recruiters and meet all job market requirements. 

Any template you use can save you time and let you write your resume in minutes.

Canadian Resume Specifics

There are a few basic things to keep in mind when crafting your Canadian resume. First things first:

The terms resume and CV can be used interchangeably in parts of Canada. In Quebec, for example, both terms refer to a one or two-page-long summary of a candidate’s career that’s tailored to the job they’re applying for.

Outside of Quebec, however, a CV is different from a resume in that it’s far more detailed and appropriate for academic positions or specific senior-level applications. 

Most job postings will ask for a resume unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Some other things to keep in mind about Canadian resumes include:

• Keep your resume one to two pages . A one-page resume is more than enough if you’re a recent graduate or new to the job market. Two-page resumes are recommended for seasoned professionals, and in certain cases, a three-page resume can be acceptable.
• Write your resume in the same language as the job offer. If you’re going for a position in Quebec and the advertisement is in French, then use French. Don’t assume they’ll accept a resume in English unless it’s explicitly written so on the job posting.
• Skip personal information and photos. Your resume should never give away your appearance, gender, age, ethnicity, nationality, religion, marital status, number of children, or any personal identification numbers.
• Don’t list references with your application unless the employer has requested them. Assumably, you can provide references if requested, so dedicating space on your resume when you’re not asked to is a waste.

Canadian Resume vs. US Resume

Both the USA and Canada prefer using resumes over CVs. In fact, Canadian and US resumes are almost identical.

The biggest difference? The language the document is written in.

You might be thinking - wait, I thought Canada used English?

Only partly.

Canada has two official languages - English and French. Both of these languages have standardized Canadian spellings, so that means they are not 100% the same as American English or European French.

Most of the terminology on your Canadian resume will be just about the same as it would be on its US equivalent. The biggest difference will probably be the added “u” to words like colour, and favourite , and the spelling of words like catalogue, centre, and cheque, as opposed to catalog, center, and check.

Before submitting your application, consider using a grammar checker like Grammarly or QuillBot to make sure your resume is up to par with Canadian spelling conventions .

Canadian Resume vs. European Resume

Typically, a resume in most of Europe, Asia, and the Pacific is referred to as a CV. The term resume in Canada refers to the same document that a CV refers to in Europe.

Both documents are meant to be one to two pages long, and list skills and experience relevant to the position you’re applying for. So in this sense, a European CV is actually different from a Canadian CV.

In Canada, a CV is an extensive document and is usually required in academic settings rather than for corporate job applications. The CV can be anywhere from two to ten pages long since it’s meant to list everything - from work experience to projects to publications.

European resumes also tend to be more detailed. For example, they can include details on high school education and grades, even if the candidate has a college degree. In Canada, that’s not the case. Your high school education is irrelevant if you have a higher degree of education.

The biggest difference between Canadian resumes and European ones is the amount of personal information you’re allowed to give away. For example, in Germany including a picture of yourself on your resume is common, but that’s absolutely not the case in Canada. There, your date of birth and nationality are a no-go.

These bits of information can be used to discriminate against you, so you’re supposed to keep them out of your resume as a precaution to give everyone a fair chance. Recruiters often consider resumes that overshare details of the candidate’s life (e.g.: race, age, date of birth, religion, political affiliation, etc.) unprofessional.

Step-By-Step Guide to Writing Your Canadian Resume

You’ve seen what a Canadian resume looks like. Now it’s time to write your own.

If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry -  we’ve here to help you get it right.

Just follow these steps:

#1. Use the Correct Format

The most popular resume format in Canada is the reverse-chronological format (which is also called the chronological format).

It’s so widely used that it’s expected by most recruiters. The chronological format puts your most recent work experiences first and then goes back in time.

Here’s an example of what it looks like:

One of the other formats is the functional resume format , also known as the skills-based resume format, which focuses on your key strengths and abilities. It’s recommended for career changers or recent graduates with little-to-no experience in the field they’re applying for.

Then, we have the combination resume format . As the name suggests, it mixes elements of both the chronological and functional format. This format gives equal attention to a candidate’s experience and skills. It provides a detailed skill summary and is a good choice for applicants who have a noticeable employment gap but plenty of work experience nonetheless.

#2. Follow These Layout Tips

If your resume looks cluttered and unorganized, the hiring manager is less likely to want to read it.

But paying attention to your resume’s layout can get you a better chance.

Stick to these formatting tips when building your Canadian resume:

• Have separate sections for all the information you want to add.
• Use a professional and easily legible resume font . 
• Let your resume breathe - leave in enough white space so the contents are easier to read, by setting your resume margins to 1” on all sides. 
• Save your resume in the correct document size. Canadian resumes use a standard North American letter size (8.5 x 11 inches), instead of the A4 size common elsewhere. You can do this easily in the Novoresume editor by choosing “Layout” in the top menu and choosing “US Letter Format”.

#3. List the Right Contact Information

Once you’ve sorted out your resume layout, it’s time to start filling in its content.

The contact information section is the first thing you should list. Here’s what to include:

• Name and surname
• Canadian phone number
• Address (City and Province)
• Professional email address

Optionally, you can include a link to your LinkedIn profile, a personal website, or an online portfolio. Just make sure they’re updated and relevant to the application.

#4. Write Your Resume Summary

Each resume only has a few seconds to catch a recruiter’s attention, so you have to make yours eye-catching and easy to read.

Here’s where a resume summary comes in. 

Going at the top of your resume, a resume summary is a two or three-sentence-long summary of your career. It includes:

• Your professional title and years of experience. 
• Two-three of your biggest achievements.
• One-two of your top relevant skills for the position.

If you’re less experienced, you can opt for a resume objective instead. A resume objective focuses on your skills and motivation to grow in your chosen field, rather than on prior experience and professional achievements.

When applying for a remote job for a company based in Canada, mention this in your resume summary. If you’re looking for a company that’s going to relocate you to Canada , make sure to mention that in your resume instead, so you don’t waste time for yourself or the hiring manager.

#5. Include Your Work Experience

Work experience is the most important section on a Canadian resume . 

It lets you expand on your past achievements and responsibilities, proving to the hiring manager you’re the best candidate for the job.

Here’s how you should structure this section:

• Start with your most recent job and go back in time. That said, don’t go back more than ten or 15 years ago, even if you’re a senior professional. The hiring manager doesn’t care about your job as a server from back in college.
• Start with your job title. The recruiter will immediately know if you have the necessary experience for the job from reading your job title.
• Add your company name and location. Sometimes you can even add a brief description of your former employer, particularly if it’s a smaller business that isn’t well-known.
• Include your dates of employment. There’s no need to be super detailed, so just stick to the mm/yyyy format.
• List your job responsibilities and achievements. Provide 4-6 bullet points for your most recent position and 2-3 bullets for older jobs.

Structuring your work experience the right way is only half the work. To stand out from the competition, you want this section to be as impressive as possible.

Here are a few tips and tricks to help with that:

• Reference the job ad, and focus on the top skills and qualifications required from candidates. Tailor your work experience around the skills that you do have to draw attention away from the ones you don’t.
• Focus more on achievements over day-to-day responsibilities. The hiring manager already has an idea of what your responsibilities for a certain job were. What they’re interested to know is what you achieved while doing it.
• Quantify your accomplishments as often as possible. Use the Laszlo Bock formula ( “accomplished X as measured by Y by doing Z” ) to provide a timeframe, scale, and results for what you’ve achieved. e,g: “ Increased annual revenue growth from 5% to 10% through the implementation of a financial roadmap. ” 
• Use powerful words and action verbs . Recruiters hate hearing generic phrases like “responsible for” or “team player,” so using the right vocabulary can help you stick out. 

Are you a recent graduate with no work experience on your resume ? Don’t sweat it - we’ve got a guide to help you find your first job .

#6. Add Your Education

In Canadian resumes, the education section typically goes right under your work experience.

Here’s how you should format this section:

• Program Name. E.g: “B.A. in Computer Science”
• University Name. E.g: “Ohio State University”
• Years Attended. E.g: “08/2018 - 06/2022”
• Achievements (optional). E.g. “Minor in Linguistics” 

It should look something like this:

B.A. in Computer Science

Concordia University

08/2019 - 06/2023

• Summa Cum Laude
• Minor in Business Analytics

Follow these tips to make this section pop:

• Don’t describe your high school education if you have a university degree.
• Mention courses you’ve taken that are relevant to the industry you’re applying to. (E.g: Statistics and Probability for a Data Analyst)
• Stick to a reverse chronological format when listing your degrees. E.g: A Ph.D. is listed above a Master’s Degree, which is listed above a Bachelor’s degree, etc.
• If you don’t have work experience, you can emphasize your academic background. Just list your education at the top of your resume instead of the work experience.

#7. Highlight Your Greatest Skills & Strengths

The skill section shows which candidates have the necessary expertise for the job, and no Canadian resume is complete without it.

Skills are typically divided into two categories:

• Soft skills consist of personality traits and characteristics developed in your personal and professional life. They involve communication skills , people skills, interpersonal skills , etc.
• Hard skills, or technical abilities, are skills you can gain from experience, training, or education. These can include computer skills or proficiency in the use of specific tools.

The trick here is, don’t list every skill you’ve ever learned, just the ones relevant to the job you’re applying for.

If you’re going to be a graphic designer, your Photoshop skills are more important than your forklift certification. Recruiters want to know which skills make you the right candidate for them, not which skills make you the most well-rounded individual.

Scan the job description and jot down which of your skills the company is looking for. Then add them to your Canadian resume.

Just make sure you don’t focus solely on one type of skill over the other. A good application covers both soft skills and hard skills, depending on the job requirements.

Here’s an example:

#8. Leverage Additional Sections

If you’ve covered all the essential resume sections and have some space left, consider adding some optional resume sections.

These sections aren’t as vital as the ones we’ve covered so far, and they won’t do as much heavy lifting on your resume as your work experience, skills, or education.

However, they can help set you apart from candidates with similar work experience and skills as yours. 

For example, if choosing between two equally qualified professionals, and the position includes collaboration with French-speaking employees or business partners, the hiring manager is likely to choose a candidate who can speak French.

Here are the additional sections you can include on your resume:

• Languages . Being able to communicate in more than one language gives you an advantage over other candidates.
• Internships. Adding any relevant internships to your resume shows you have some experience that’s prepared you for the job you’re applying to.
• Volunteer experience . Any experience volunteering is a great addition to any resume since it shows you’re a caring person who wants to give back to your community.
• Hobbies and interests . Certain hobbies or interests might give the hiring manager a look into who you are as a person, and work in your favor.
• Certifications and awards. Any relevant qualifications or awards, such as online classes, can go here.
• Publications. If you’ve published anything, ranging from magazines to research articles, you can add it to your resume.
• Projects. Interesting projects you’ve worked on can show the hiring manager your passion and dedication to your field.

#9. Include a cover letter

Cover letters are still an essential companion piece to any resume.

Adding a cover letter to your application shows the hiring manager you’re ready to take all the necessary steps to land the job.

Cover letters also complement resumes by allowing you to elaborate on things you don’t have the space for in your resume, such as certain achievements or employment gaps.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what your cover letter should include:

• Header. As with your resume, include your updated contact information with your name, surname, Canadian phone number, and professional email address. Be sure to include the employer’s contact information as well.
• Greeting line. Make sure you address the cover letter correctly with a greeting line like “ Dear John Doe, ” or “ Dear Mr. Doe, ”. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, just use something like “ Dear [Department] Team. ” 
• Introduction. Start off with a brief summary of why you’re writing the letter and which position you’re interested in. To grab the hiring manager’s attention, use your opening paragraph to also describe two or three of your top achievements.
• Qualifications and motivation. The body of your cover letter should emphasize your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the position. Use it to explain exactly what makes you the right candidate and how you’re the right fit for the company.
• Closing paragraph . Wrap up your letter with a call to action and an official signature line.

Struggling to write your cover letter? Check out these cover letter examples to get inspired.

FAQs About Canadian Resumes

Do you still have any questions? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Canadian resumes.

1. How can I create a Canadian resume as an international student?

Whether you’re looking to apply to a university in Canada, secure an internship , or land your first job after your graduation, your main focus should be on your academic achievements.

Education is highly valued in Canada and your credentials and relevant coursework will boost your resume, so long as you keep it relevant to the position you’re applying for.

When describing your education, you can also add the location next to your school or university’s name. E.g.: “Marmara University, Turkey” instead of just “Marmara University”.

2. Should the Canadian resume be in a PDF or Word file format?

Generally speaking, a PDF is the preferred format for resumes since it remains the same regardless of what operating system or device you use to open it. Moreover, it keeps your formatting and illustrations in place, and can’t be edited by accident when a recruiter mislicks.

Most career websites in Canada accept resumes as both PDF and Word files. Nonetheless, we recommend you have your Canadian resume exported to PDF unless the job ad specifically requests Word.

3. Do Canadians say CV or resume?

Depending on what part of Canada you’re in, people might say CV and resume interchangeably. However, outside of Quebec, these are two different documents.

Resumes are typically not longer than two pages and are meant to be tailored to the job you’re applying for. CVs, on the other hand, are far more detailed and appropriate for academic settings or specific senior-level applications.

4. What should you NOT include on a Canadian resume?

As an anti-discrimination measure, pictures of yourself and personal information, are legally prohibited from job applications. This means your nationality, age, gender, religion, immigration status, political affiliation, marital status, and social insurance number, have no place on your resume.

Another thing to keep in mind is that it’s taboo for applicants to include their salary expectations on a Canadian resume. Salary expectations should only be provided if requested by the employer, and even then, they are best included in a cover letter, never on your resume.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a- boot it for Canadian resumes!

Let’s recap the main things you need to know on the subject:

• Canadian resumes are essentially the same as US resumes. You won’t have any difficulties applying with a US resume for a position in Canada, but Canadian English is preferred over standardized American English.
• A Canadian resume is the equivalent of a CV in Europe and most other parts of the world. However, a CV in Canada is a much longer document that’s used mostly to apply for jobs in academia.
• Keep your formatting clear, and use separate sections and legable fonts when building your resume.
• When applying to jobs in Canada, you should never include anything that could be used to discriminate against you, such as information about your age, nationality, and immigration status, or pictures of yourself.

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Spend less time writing and make sure you use the same words as employers. You can simply select skills and job duties from our thousands of pre-defined options.

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Build multiple resumes for different types of jobs and save them all in your account until the right opportunity comes up. You can download and print them at any time.

How to use the Resume Builder

Step 1 pick a template.

After you create a Standard or Plus account on Job Bank, just login to access the Resume Builder. To build your first resume, pick from one of the two templates currently available. You should choose the resume template that best reflects your current situation.

• you have several years of experience in your field;
• you’re looking for a job in your field;
• your career progression has been stable and your work history is fairly consistent (no major gaps).

Use the youth and recent graduates’ template if:

• you’re a first-time job seeker starting your professional career;
• you’ve just completed your education and you’re looking for an entry-level job in your field of study;
• you have limited paid work experience.

Step 2 Fill in the blanks

Once you’ve picked a resume template, fill in the blanks with details about your education, experience and skills.

To help fill in some sections of your resume, you can search thousands of pre-defined options and select the ones that suit you. For example, you can import job duties for any job title. When you look up a job title, you can select all or any of the associated job duties and add them to your resume in one click.

If you have a Plus account on Job Bank, you can simply import all of your profile details into the Resume Builder to automatically fill the blanks.

Step 3 Customize your resume

Make sure to put a personal spin on your resume: with the ability to add free text descriptions and create new sections, you can easily customize its content to suit your needs.

Not sure where to start? Expert tips on customizing each section of your resume are provided as you fill them in. For more advice, read our do’s and don’ts of writing a good resume .

Build a resume that will land you a job interview.

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Updated: May 2nd, 2023

Getting a job in Canada begins with creating an impressive resume that catches the attention of recruiters and employers. A resume is crucial in showcasing your skills, experience, and qualifications to prospective employers. However, crafting a resume for the Canadian job market can differ from what you are used to in your home country.

Resume writing in Canada is a unique process that requires understanding the local job market, cultural norms, and specific formatting guidelines. By mastering the art of creating a Canadian-style resume, you can significantly increase your chances of getting a job in Canada. So let's dive into the world of resume writing and explore the various elements that make up a winning resume in Canada.

Why You Should Get Your Resume to Canadian Standards

Awards and Achievements

Mention any awards, recognitions, or achievements demonstrating your abilities and contributions to your field.

If you are fluent in multiple languages, mention them here, as bilingualism is highly valued in the Canadian job market. You may need to include your Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) language test results. Here's a breakdown of the Canadian language tests to help you start.

You can either include a statement that "References are available upon request" or provide a separate reference list with contact information for your professional references.

When all is said and done, your Resume should look something like this:

Dress Professionally

To make a good first impression, dress professionally, such as a suit and tie.

Arrive Early

Plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes before your scheduled interview to allow for any unexpected delays.

Bring Copies of Your Resume and References

Bring copies and a list of professional references if the interviewer requests.

Be Prepared to Discuss Your Qualifications and Experience

During the interview, be ready to discuss your qualifications and experience in detail and provide specific examples of how you have applied your skills in previous roles.

Ask Questions

At the end of the interview, ask thoughtful questions about the company, role, and work environment to demonstrate your interest and engagement.

Remember to be courteous, professional, and confident during the interview, and always follow up with a thank-you note or email to the interviewer afterward. Learn more about how to prepare for your job interview in Canada here.

How Do I Know If My Job Offer Is Real or Not?

Unfortunately, job scams and fraudulent job offers are prevalent in Canada, especially for newcomers and international job seekers. Being vigilant and aware of the red flags of a fake job offer is essential. Here are some signs that a job offer may be fake:

• The employer asks for sensitive personal information, such as your Social Insurance Number, passport details, or bank account information, before you have been officially hired.
• The employer offers a job without conducting an interview or verifying your qualifications.
• The job offer includes a request for payment or investment on your part, such as training fees, equipment costs, or travel expenses.
• The employer insists on communicating only via email or refuses to provide a physical address or phone number.

Do not respond or provide personal information if you receive a suspicious job offer. Instead, research the company and the job offer online, and contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or local law enforcement if you suspect fraud. 

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LGBTQ+ activists fear a Poilievre government, some say Trudeau should step down

Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre speaks at a news conference on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on August 29. PATRICK DOYLE/The Canadian Press

As Prime Minister Justin Trudeau digs in his heels and pledges to stay on as Liberal leader despite dwindling public support, some LGBTQ+ activists say he is putting queer and gender diverse people at risk.

Queer advocates say a Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would be dangerous for LGBTQ+ Canadians, and some are pushing for Trudeau to step aside to give the Liberals a better chance of winning the next election – which must be held on or before Oct. 20, 2025.

The executive director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Queer Research Initiative said she’s concerned about the potential harm of a Conservative government for queer Canadians. She pointed to Poilievre’s comments saying minors should not have access to puberty blockers and transgender athletes should be barred from women’s sports and change rooms.

“The normalization of this rhetoric is dangerous, and so are the potential policies that he could implement,” Sarah Worthman said.

Poilievre’s comments on change rooms and gender affirming care for young people serve to villainize trans people, Worthman said. “Poilievre has admitted on the record that he’s willing to use Section 33 – so there’s essentially no stopping him from rolling back different rights especially the rights of trans and gender diverse people in Canada.”

Section 33 – known as the notwithstanding clause – of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms gives Parliament the ability to override certain portions of the Charter for a five-year term, but Poilievre’s office has said he would only use the clause for criminal justice reforms.

Meanwhile, Worthman said the Liberals would have a better chance of beating the Conservatives if they switched Trudeau out for someone new, but she didn’t say with whom. Worthman added that the federal NDP, led by Jagmeet Singh, would also benefit from a change in leadership.

The Conservatives did not provide someone for comment, but instead sent an e-mail with a series of transcribed answers that Poilievre gave to journalists between June 2023 and February 2024 on LGBTQ+ issues.

The answers include Poilievre in 2023 saying Canada should continue offering refuge for persecuted LGBTQ+ people from around the world. They also include Poilievre in February saying “female spaces should be exclusively for females, not for biological males” when asked if transgender women should be barred from women’s sports or being admitted into women’s shelters or prisons.

At the time, the Tory leader also said he was opposed to youth under 18 taking puberty blockers, medicine often used by transgender youth to temporarily suppress the hormones that cause puberty.

Helen Kennedy, executive director of Egale Canada, said there has been a marked rise in hateful rhetoric about LGBTQ+ people in Canadian politics, which has left “members of our community to feel like they’re being hunted at the moment by their own political leaders.”

“Certainly not every conservative is anti-LGBTQ, but right at the moment it appears that the leader of the federal Conservative party is using this as a vote-getter,” she said. “It’s really based on political opportunism and it’s really alarming.”

A Statistics Canada report released this year reported 491 hate crimes targeting sexual orientation in 2022, marking a 12 per cent rise from the previous peak recorded in 2021.

Fae Johnstone, executive director of political advocacy group Queer Momentum, said she’s worried a Poilievre government would roll back the hard-fought rights of trans Canadians. However, both Johnstone and Kennedy stopped short of calling for Trudeau to step down as leader.

“I think (Poilievre) wants to normalize government interference in the private lives of Canadian citizens under the guise of parental rights, or protecting people from gender ideology,” Johnstone said.

Montreal-based Celeste Trianon, who runs a centre that helps trans people in Quebec who wish to change their legal name or gender marker, said Poilievre’s comments on gender-affirming care for youth are cause for alarm.

“What I’m most fearful of is the criminalization of trans people,” Trianon said. She said she does not believe Poilievre’s assertion that he would use the notwithstanding clause only for criminal justice reforms.

“Having passports that match their chosen name, or access to gender-affirming health care – if that ends up being criminalized, which is possible with the use of the notwithstanding clause, it’s going to amount to a de facto ban on trans lives,” she said.

It’s for this reason that Trianon believes the Liberals should follow the lead of the U.S. Democratic party, which has seen a swell of support since replacing President Joe Biden with Vice-President Kamala Harris as the party’s nominee in November’s presidential election.

“I believe right now that’s what the Liberals need and, to a lesser degree, the NDP could benefit from this as well,” she said.

Randy Boissonnault, a federal cabinet minister who was previously Trudeau’s special adviser on LGBTQ+ issues, said in a recent interview queer people are right to be worried about what may happen if Poilievre wins the upcoming election.

“Poilievre has said that our rights, LGBTQ2S+ rights, are woke ideology. He has two members of his caucus who are part of the Canadian Pride caucus who do not come to meetings if we talk about trans matters,” he said.

Boissonnault, however, said Trudeau is the best person to lead the party though another election, adding that the prime minister is a champion of LGBTQ+ rights.

“We don’t need political leaders telling our trans community that they don’t belong We have way too many LGBTQ2S+ plus kids that commit suicide simply because they think their lives are never going to get better. And I don’t stand for it and the prime minister doesn’t stand for it.”

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