Working

Most Canadians will change their career 4-5 times during their life.  Rather than staying with one employer or occupation, they move when new opportunities arise or when their interests change. 

Career planning is a lifelong process that includes choosing an occupation, finding a job and making a career transition - changing employer or occupation.

Coming to a new country can also mean a change in career.  When you first arrive, you may need to look at working in a job that is different from your previous occupation.  Take the time to research the occupations available in Saskatchewan so you know the options and can make an informed choice. 

Here are some helpful questions to ask yourself when you first arrive or at any time you are thinking of making a change in your career.

• What are my goals and options?
• What occupations are in demand?
• What skills and experience can I transfer to a new occupation?
• Will this new job or occupation move me closer to my goals?
• How will my decision affect my family?
• What other factors do I need to consider in making a decision? (e.g. finances, age, location)
• Which Saskatchewan employers have a good record of hiring skilled immigrants?

Free career counseling is one of the services available for newcomers to Saskatchewan.  Career counselors at Career and Employment Services offices across Saskatchewan can help you look at your options and decide on a plan.  They can also help you with writing your résumé and cover letter, as well as give you information on how job interviews are handled in Saskatchewan.

Free resources are available to help you plan your career.

• Career and Employment Services Offices are available across Saskatchewan.
• Canadian Careers lists internet resources for self assessment and skills training.
• Job Futures Canada's National Career Planning Tool is a career tool to help you plan for your future.  It provides useful information about 226 occupational groups and describes the work experiences of recent graduates from 155 programs of study.
• Saskatchewan Job Futures has information about hundreds of Saskatchewan occupations.
• SaskNetWork provides links to resources on career planning, education and training, self-employment, labour market information, financial help and the workplace.
• Career Exploration - Service Canada helps you look at your skills and interests, look at the world of work, make a plan, and manage your career.
• The Career Handbook provides occupational profiles.  It includes information on aptitudes, interests, involvement with data/people/things, physical activities, environmental conditions, education/training indicators, career progression, and work settings.
• Library Resources on Career Planning