Clients often come to us for assistance after months of job searching with no responses from employers. We support them through their employment journey, from helping them improve their English to resume writing and WHMIS training. However, they are often being rejected from jobs not based on their qualifications or language skills but because they do not yet have Canadian work experience. Of course, they can never gain that experience in their field of choice if no employers are willing to waive that requirement. The Ontario Human Rights Commission argues that Canadian work experience requirements are relevant only in very limited circumstances and are often unnecessary, becoming an excuse to dismiss newcomers when hiring.
When newcomers are asked what gives them a sense of belonging to their new community, having a job is very often the top response. It means providing for one’s family, feeling socially accepted, and achieving economic independence. Although our clients may lack Canadian work experience, they do hold a great range of employable skillsets and education credentials and they are eager to work. For this reason, we are excited to announce the launch of our first-ever Work Experience Project!
- Cost-sharing of wages for the placement
- Ongoing support from GGP staff
- Cross-cultural training for your staff team, upon request
