Finding a job in the digital world

Finding a job in the digital world presents many challenges to today's employment candidates. Gone are the old days of mailing in your cover letter and resume and waiting to receive a phone call. Now, the application process is primarily online via email or a web portal. Job seekers can track their applications in real-time. Being aware of best practices in the digital era will allow a candidate to be proactive and competitive in this tight market.

Resumes are assessed by a program called the Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Organizations use this system to streamline the reviewing process and organize potential organizational fits based on an applicant's experiences and skill set. It is important to be tactical in your approach and tailor your resume for each application by including keywords or phrases from the job description.

Although organizations are using ATS, it's important to master how to network online. Expanding your professional network online increases the chances of getting the latest information on who's hiring, hiring trends, and in-demand occupations. However, keep your online conversations and interactions professional.

"Your online presence can come back to haunt you years down the road. Be very careful what you're putting out there, i.e., what you are sharing, liking, pictures, or quotes you're putting out. Some organizations will do a big dive into your social media presence." says Carrie Church, Windmill Microlending national director of operations.

It is imperative to be truthful. The digital space makes it easy for applicants to be caught out on lies. Church cautions that recruiters check profiles of references. They do so to ensure the information given as it relays to what the applicant's reference will be 'certifying' and an accurate match.

Research the company, and prepare for the interviews, beginning with the phone interview. "There's a lot of resources available online as to questions you might be asked in the interview. Make sure that your surroundings are conducive for the phone, in-person, or video interview. For example, never answer a phone interview call when you are in the subway," says Church.

She also advises to beware of scammers. If an offer is made that is too good to be true, it usually is. Some candidates have received personal and private information requests, interview for jobs they never applied for or asked to pay money. Never give away your personal and confidential information and report fraudsters. The Government of Canada's Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre offers tips to protect yourself.

Skilled immigrants come to Canada hoping to achieve career success, create and enjoy prosperity for themselves and their families. Employment plays a considerable role in attaining this. Being intentional and tactical in implementing these strategies in an entirely digital environment can lead to career success in Canada - a country that needs your skills and experiences.

In support of skilled immigrants on their journey, Windmill Microlending has created the Skilled Immigrant Career Success Guide. In this comprehensive, downloadable, online Guide, newcomers can find the information they need to bring their skills to the Canadian labour market and learn new strategies to help them achieve their full career potential.