An Opening Doors Workshop March 11, 2010 Aurora Public Library Presented by: Chris Buffett Buffett & Associates

Agenda Learning Outcomes Newcomers in York Region The 4 Employability Dimensions Newcomer Challenges in the 4 Dimensions Solutions/Resources Case Studies Questions and Answers Evaluation

Learning Outcomes Learn more about using employability dimensions in the client counselling and job development process Learn more about solutions and resources available for helping newcomers with their employability challenges

Why Important? Between 2001 – 2006, nearly 100,000 immigrants settled in York Region. Most of the immigrants who settle in York Region are well educated and have backgrounds in professional occupations. 72% of prime working-age immigrants in Ontario have a degree from an international university. The unemployment rate for university-educated recent immigrants was four times greater than that of similar non-immigrants.

What are the Employability Dimensions?

The Employability Dimensions Job Maintenance Job Search Skills/Qualifications Career Decision Making

Is there a demand in Canada for their former occupation? May be trained in an occupation that doesn’t match interests/values/natural talents. Not aware of where promising employment opportunities lie. Unsure of what careers will meet their circumstantial realities. Unsure of how to acquire Labour Market Information. Career choice may be unrealistic.

Skills/Qualifications/ Experience Weak English language skills Credentials not recognized in Canada Education/Credentials not assessed in Canada License/Certification required for regulated professions Not eligible for government funding for skills development or Self-Employment Benefit program Lack of Canadian work experience

Job Search Networking and hidden job market new to them Believe they have no network/contacts Marketing themselves to employer may be a new concept to them. Underselling themselves to employers Unaware of how to research the industry and employer Ineffective job search tools—expectations for resume, cover letter, interview skills different in their home country

Job Maintenance Lack of understanding of Canadian workplace culture Dress code, eye contact, hand shake, values, rules/ procedures, punctuality Lack of “soft skills” or life skills considered necessary in the Canadian workplace Team work, problem solving, leadership/ management style

Solutions/Resources

Career Decision Making Various online assessments: Career Paths, TDSB Personality Dimensions CAPS/COPS asessments Labour Market Information

Skills/Qualifications/Experience English Language Instruction (LINC/ESL) Credential Assessment Enhanced Language Training (ELT) Programs Occupation-Specific Language Training (OSLT) Skills Development training through MTCU SEB training Practice Firms Volunteering Bridging programs

Job Search Centre for Foreign-Trained Professionals and Trades People Re-Employment Centre for International Professionals Job Finding Clubs Job Search Workshops Employment Resource Centres Mentoring Agencies

Job Maintenance Bridging programs OSLT programs Essential Skills/21 st Century Skills Language Skills Life Skills Training Employment Articles on Internet

Questions and Answers ???