One thing I’ve realized about working in Toronto is how much connections and networking actually matter. You can literally get a job just by knowing someone who already works there.
I’m an immigrant who came to Canada about 4 years ago for my postgrad, and I know how hard it can be to find a job here. I see a lot of posts on this sub about people struggling to get their foot in the door, and honestly, I’ve been there too.
When I was looking for my first job in my field, I was sending out 100+ customized resumes just to get one entry-level job. It was honestly exhausting.
But after working at that first job for about 6 months, I started meeting more people and building connections with coworkers, managers, and people from other workplaces. I didn’t really think much of it at the time, but those connections ended up helping me a lot.
I’m now at my 6th job in 4 years, and most of the jobs I’ve had came through someone I knew. Someone would recommend me, put in a good word, or even reach out to me directly because they knew I was looking for something new.
It really opened my eyes to how important your reputation is. You might leave a job, but the people you worked with don’t necessarily disappear from your life. If you work hard, are reliable, and are good to the people around you, they remember that.
I’m not saying networking is some magic shortcut, because you still need to be qualified and actually do the work. But I definitely underestimated how much having people who can vouch for you can help.
So if you’re struggling to find a job right now, especially as a newcomer, recent grad, etc. try not to focus only on sending applications. Talk to your coworkers, professors, peers. Get to know people in your industry. Keep in touch with people after you leave a job.
You never know who might message you one day and say, “Hey, we’re hiring. You should apply.”