Working in Toronto

Toronto is at the forefront of the Canadian working world. It serves as a headquarters for all five major banks in Canada and houses well-developed film, biotechnology, tourism, aerospace, software development, media, and telecommunication industries.

Whether you’re seeking a new opportunity or expanding your career horizons, the job market in Toronto is thriving, making it a bustling centre of economic growth and innovation. It’s where ambition meets opportunity and where dreams can truly take flight.

Job market in Toronto

The job market in Toronto is diverse and full of opportunities. As Canada’s commercial hub, Toronto is brimming with job prospects, especially if you have a highly developed and unique skillset. Skilled trades, healthcare, and technology are in high demand. There is a notable shortage of professionals in fields like construction trades, nursing, and software development. 

On the other hand, manufacturing jobs have declined due to automation and global competition, while retail has seen significant changes with the rise of e-commerce, leading to store closures and fewer employment opportunities.

Toronto’s proximity to New York makes it a key link between Canada and the US, resulting in close ties and easy trade with one of the world’s largest economies. This partnership has contributed to Toronto’s growth and prosperity, attracting workers who are looking to be part of this thriving scene.

Finding a job in Toronto

Many people who relocate to Toronto do so via an intra-company transfer, which can be one of the easiest ways to secure a work opportunity in the city. If you have niche skills, you might also be head-hunted and secure a job before moving here. It’s important to start your job search before arriving and to research requirements, qualifications, and work visas in Canada.

If you’re planning to move to Toronto without a job offer in hand, rest assured that there are plenty of support systems and resources to help you secure employment. City employment services and newcomer organisations, like JVS Toronto, offer tailored programmes to support you, including job search coaching and sector-specific workshops. Job portals like Indeed and Randstad are great tools for finding opportunities in various industries.

Networking is key in Toronto – connecting with others through LinkedIn, attending industry events, and joining professional associations can help you find unadvertised opportunities and make headway in the workplace. Engaging with local organisations like the Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC) and Professional Immigrant Networks (PINs) can provide priceless support and connections.

Credential recognition is often a key challenge for newcomers, as getting your foreign qualifications recognised by Canadian employers can be a complex process. Similarly, many employers prefer candidates with Canadian work experience, making breaking into the job market challenging. Consider participating in bridging programmes or internships to gain local experience and improve your chances.

Working and Finding Work in Canada

Useful links

• Indeed – Job Listings
• Randstad – Recruitment and Jobs
• City of Toronto – Employment Services
• Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council
• JVS Toronto – Newcomer Services

Work culture in Toronto

Work culture in Toronto varies across industries. For instance, finance jobs tend to have a more formal atmosphere and dress code, while creative sectors like media and tech are more relaxed.

Standard working hours are typically from 9am to 5pm, five days a week. Smaller companies may offer more flexible roles and a close-knit environment, and larger corporations tend to have structured hierarchies and more formal processes.

Many workplaces in Toronto also now offer flexible or hybrid work arrangements due to changes brought about by the pandemic, particularly in sectors like technology and finance. Hybrid work models are more common in the tech industry and financial and professional services, balancing remote and office-based work well.

If you’re new to Toronto, be mindful of common workplace etiquette. Generally, Canadian workplaces are egalitarian, where everyone’s views are heard, although final decisions remain with management. Respect for diversity is also a cornerstone of the workplace.

Punctuality is a must – arriving late to meetings is frowned upon. First impressions matter, and communication tends to be direct but always very polite. Maintain professional email standards, including proper salutations. Respect personal space and be mindful of others’ comfort levels.