Stories of Finding Employment

[betazed 0]

My main concern is finding work once I cross over.

So Canadians who have moved to the US, I would really like to hear about your experiences when it comes to finding employment, so the rest of us know what to expect.

[thetreble 19]

I started looking for employment just before I received my I-551 stamp. The state I live in has a plentiful amount of jobs so I got quite a few interviews right away. I needed a job ASAP so the newspaper was my best friend. I literally called every number for every job I thought I could do.

I got a job in less than two weeks after I started looking. In fact, I didn't even have my green card in hand yet, just my 551 stamp for few weeks I worked. I also didn't have my social security number either yet but I was working for a small business that could get away with that sort of thing.

Any ways- that was rgiht before the recession though and luckily I scored a better job right before they started laying people off and imposing hiring freezes for most government agencies.

I really don't know what to say to you. If you have a specialized career than you may have no problem. But with the recession, jobs are pretty hard to come by right now and if you have a decent job, everyone is telling you to hold onto it even if you don't like it because the chances of you getting another one may be tough.

I think it has to do with the area you live in as well. If you live in the boonies in a mid western state, you may have a harder time finding work.

I will say this though - slim pickings at this point! take what you can get because the US isn't in a situation right now where you can pass something up and hope something better comes along.

[Carlawarla 1]

My main concern is finding work once I cross over.

So Canadians who have moved to the US, I would really like to hear about your experiences when it comes to finding employment, so the rest of us know what to expect.

I think we need more information. I'm not employed, and haven't been looking for work so I'm the last person that could give you any information, but your question is very general. Yes, some experiences could give you ideas, but it might take a load off your mind if you could tell us where you're going to be living in the US and what area of work you're looking for, what education you have, and even what mode of transportation you'll have. There is often lots of good information in this thread about work in the US as well.

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showforum=15

Best of luck!

[Emancipation 2]

I actually had the promise of a job before I moved to the US. My husband was working for a guy who was starting a new company and needed a bookkeeper so I did an interview while I was still in Canada and was hired pending my green card. I did a few days of orientation prior to receiving my EAD, but other than that, it worked with their new companies time line to hire me after the EAD came in. It was all because of networking and my husband's contacts that I had my first job.

After that company went sour, I looked in the local papers for jobs and landed an interview at a local paper. I nailed it and they hired me, but within 3 months I tired of that job (data entry) and my church was actually looking for help in their office, so I applied and was asked to take on the role there. We moved towns and I've been at that job just over a year.

It's mostly been people that I know, places I'm familiar with are the ways that I have landed jobs, very much the same way I'd land a job back home.

[Sprailenes 47]

I took what I could get at first and kept looking after that. You can't be fussy right now and any pay cheque is better than no pay cheque. I took a job at the front desk at a hotel, I wasn't too happy about the line of work since I was in management before but I wasn't about to picky, I got that job 2 days after I got my green card. I was promoted soon after but left due to safety conerns I and found a new job with a country club as an administrative assistant/membership assistant aka office b1tch. That was pure luck btw. I don't ever plan on just walking off a job again like I did at the hotel. I was lucky that two weeks later I was employed again at a better job.

The stars were aligned for me that month.

[ruby_mtl 0]

I have the same concern. I'm afraid of having a hard time finding work although all my soon-to-be in-laws believe that I'll find something without any problems. The say that the fact that I have my Bachelor's in Social Work and that I speak 4 languages will help....we'll see. The system is soooooo different in Albany, NY than it is here in Montreal. I'm looking into the possiblity to take a class or 2 at SUNY Albany. but with 2 young babies....i don't know....lol

Anyways, good luck to you and to all who will be looking for work!

I have the same concern. I'm afraid of having a hard time finding work although all my soon-to-be in-laws believe that I'll find something without any problems. The say that the fact that I have my Bachelor's in Social Work and that I speak 4 languages will help....we'll see. The system is soooooo different in Albany, NY than it is here in Montreal. I'm looking into the possiblity to take a class or 2 at SUNY Albany. but with 2 young babies....i don't know....lol

Anyways, good luck to you and to all who will be looking for work!

[Udella&Wiz 325]

I started applying online as soon as I got the email that my EAD was being issued - I figured I'd get it in the mail with time to spare before having to actually present it.

On any application, when it asked if I was eligible to work, I answered yes and that was all - I didn't find they asked for anything further. I work in IT as a software tester, the industry is fairly standard and the requirements are pretty clear - either you know your stuff and have the proper experience and background or you don't, hard to fake it I posted my resume online on sites like Monster, Dice, the Washington Post (since I live around there), but most times companies in my industry are looking for you to apply online at their own websites, so no big deal - I could ahve typed myresume in my sleep.

First job I interviewed for is the one I work at 13 months later still. Pays super well ( like 20K+) in comparison to my Cdn version of the same job - mostly due to the area we live in, the job duties are about the same.

IT companies are very familiar with VISAs and documents so they didn't blink an eye when I showed my 2 yr temp GC as proof of eligibilty to work.

Guess it depends what you're aiming for, the economy is what it is, but it will likely work out fine for you, a degree is a major plus no matter what? perhaps you'll start in some new line of work that you weren't expecting/ Especially with 4 languages - you are quite a catch!

[betazed 0]

Thanks for letting us know about your own experiences. I'm definitely fearing my luck with finding employment with the recession. Even before thing got really bad, everyone has been suggesting that I not move for a while.

I think we need more information. I'm not employed, and haven't been looking for work so I'm the last person that could give you any information, but your question is very general. Yes, some experiences could give you ideas, but it might take a load off your mind if you could tell us where you're going to be living in the US and what area of work you're looking for, what education you have, and even what mode of transportation you'll have.

Good point! To specify:

+I'll be living in Seattle proper.

+I currently work a government job up here in Vancouver that deals with report-writing, investigations, accounts payables, and previously, employee benefits.

+I have a Bachelor's in Criminology from Simon Fraser. I had originally wanted to go into some form of law enforcement (prior to even meeting my husband), but my only goal now is to see how an SFU degree will fare in Seattle's job market.

+I will be taking my car with me when I move over to Seattle.

One thing I find an advantage is that I don't get too optimistic to the point where I'm delusional. When people ask "So what kinda work do you think you'll be doing down there?", I usually respond with:

"Making candles in a factory owned by Pottery Barn."

The scary thing is, I think that is aiming high these days.

[JillA 2]

Well I received my GC shortly after my EAD and I was in Canada at the time for a visit... so after I returned back home, I started looking and posted my resume online as well. So far, I've had 1 interview, didn't get that job. This wierd guy e-mailed me from a yahoo account, saying he found my resume online and would I like to meet over coffee to discuss job prospects.... ummm no! Creepy! I have another interview next week, so I've had a few calls. I'm staying positive, and hope to find something soon! At least I have my EI, that really helps. I'm still enjoying my time off, because I know once I start working, I'll miss having the time off. Even though some days I go a bit batty, most days I am happy to be off and enjoying the time.

[G&A 1]

Here is my story:

My background was a Canadian Tax Professional (Income tax & GST). Prior to moving to the USA, I took a couple online courses from UCLA extension in hopes of Americanizing my skills. I took a few American tax courses. As soon as I entered the USA, I began the process to become a CPA. When my EAD arrived, I immediately starting apply for jobs like crazy and calling recruiters. I was lucky enough to get in with a company in a management position 2 weeks after receiving my EAD (through a recruiter). This was in June 2008, when things were bad but not as bad as they are now. The company who I worked for started going downhill (because of the economy). As I was the accountant who reviewed the financial statements, I knew either layoffs or bankruptcy where coming. My husband and I had just bought a house and had a huge southern California mortgage. We would not be able to make it on one income. So, i started applying for jobs. I went to a ton of interviews with nothing ever materializing. I felt like a loser. I felt like there was something wrong with me. Coming from Alberta, where jobs were falling from the sky, this job scene had left me with no confidence. BUT I did not give up. I kept applying for about 8 months. As the months went by, I became closer and closer to being a CPA. I started getting creative with my cover letter writing skills. I felt it necessary to state on the cover letter that "I am a permanent resident of the United States and therefore do not require sponsorship". Also, on my resume in the education section, I noted that my degree was reviewed by the California board of accountancy and found to be equivalent to an American B.S. I probably applied for about 300 jobs and interviewed with about 10 different companies. Most recruiters told me that I needed to take a pay cut. However, I refused because I was already underpaid to begin with. I felt that taking a pay cut now would set me back a couple years (As it would take me 2-3 yrs to get up to a pay level that I would be happy with). I didnt give up. I kept applying and kept interviewing and did not sell myself short. I did a good job of highlighting my achivements in my previous positions (both on the resume, coverletter AND in the interview). A couple weeks ago, I interiewed for an excellent management position with a manufacturing company. I was offered a job on the spot AND a big raise.

My advice for Canadian Job seekers:

1) Take American courses/certifications if needed. They will give you credibility

2) State on your cover letter that you do not need sponsorship and that you can legally work for any employer in the USA

3) Never give up. There are alot of people looking and your time will come. I was passed up for alot of jobs but it worked out for me in the end because I now have been offered a more senior position (compared to what I was interviewing for)

4) Do not sell yourself short. If you are currently working do not take a pay cut unless you really have to. Try and get what you...or you will be constantly looking for a new job

5) Highlight your achievements. You really need to stand out.

Good luck to all.

A

[G&A 1]

Additional info I missed in previous post:

Also, I forgot to mention that you should try and network as much as possible. I know networking is difficult when you dont really know anyone. I found a Canadians in SoCal yahoo group. MOst of them have been in the US for years and are very well established. I would blast out my resume (without my address) to the whole group. Also, if you join a professional association they often have networking events.

I also started called every single accounting firm within a 20 mile radius from my house (about 60 firms) and asked them if they were hiring. If they said no, I asked if i could fax my resume to them in case they were hiring in the future. Most of them were really kind and said yes. I got one interview out of this method.

Meet with as many recruiters if you can. Most of them will BS you and tell you that they have a job for you when they dont. BUT it only takes one recruiter to get you an interview. Therefore, I would suggest emailing them everyweek asking if they have any updates. It does not cost you anything and their comission is based on your salary. Therefore it is in your best interests because they will negotiate a higher salary for you. ASK THEM FOR ADVICE ON YOUR RESUME. The know what companies are looking for. Its free advise!

I also started accepting side bookkeeping jobs off of craigslist. I was employed full time and didnt really need to extra cash (but it was nice heheh). I was hoping that I would meet someone who could help me find a job.

These are the websites I would use to look for work:

www.careerbuilder.com

www.monster.com

www.directemployers.com

www.indeed.com

Craigslist (be careful with this one)

Yahoo hot jobs

Hope this helps everyone who is looking. I know it was very very very difficult for me. BUT all of my hard work finally paid off.

[SapphireDreams 71]

^^ That's really great advice G&A, thanks!

I'm not really that nervous to find a job. I mean, I definitely need to get one when the EAD makes it's appearence, but I figure there is no point in worrying about it too much right now.

I have a pretty specialized degree and certificate in Public Relations. Lucky for me, NYC is the PR capital of the world and there are more agencies and companies there in my field than anywhere else so I do feel that will be a huge advantage. PR is all about networking and so I've already tried to network in NYC, through the help of my network in Toronto. Waiting to immigrate and working where I do was a huge strategic decision on my part to ensure that I was going to employable when I moved.

That being said, the economy is really affecting the PR industry - so I do need to take that into consideration.

I plan to join a local organization for PR woman, take a few seminars or courses if I have to and attend as many interesting networking events that I can find.

My best friend does similar to what you do for a large consulting company, so you might want to apply to large firms like that in Seattle. Her department is not really hurting and they have been hiring people so who knows...

[G&A 1]

^^ That's really great advice G&A, thanks!

I'm not really that nervous to find a job. I mean, I definitely need to get one when the EAD makes it's appearence, but I figure there is no point in worrying about it too much right now.

I have a pretty specialized degree and certificate in Public Relations. Lucky for me, NYC is the PR capital of the world and there are more agencies and companies there in my field than anywhere else so I do feel that will be a huge advantage. PR is all about networking and so I've already tried to network in NYC, through the help of my network in Toronto. Waiting to immigrate and working where I do was a huge strategic decision on my part to ensure that I was going to employable when I moved.

That being said, the economy is really affecting the PR industry - so I do need to take that into consideration.

I plan to join a local organization for PR woman, take a few seminars or courses if I have to and attend as many interesting networking events that I can find.

My best friend does similar to what you do for a large consulting company, so you might want to apply to large firms like that in Seattle. Her department is not really hurting and they have been hiring people so who knows...

A good resource is finding facebook groups. If the group isnt active...take initiative and plan a meeting. If is VERY tough out there...especially for HR, PR, marketing, advertising...well everything for that matter ahahah. BUT there are still jobs out there. You just have to be sharp and portray yourself as a go getter.

[CBR 0]

My hubby got a job in graphic arts/web design which is a very tough field to get into where we live. Everybody wants those jobs! He's extremely lucky and I'm so proud of him. He went to university for this, but didn't finish. He had some experience from his own small business in Canada, but really not that much. He still got hired. He was one of hundreds interviewed (had to go through 3 interviews with multiple interviewers all the way up to the ceo of the company lol).

They said it was his minor in english that gave him the edge, since they require some technical writing for the job. I think his being Canadian had something to do with it as well. It sets you apart from the rest, you can offer fresh perspectives, you have life experiences unique from someone who grew up here (different television, different government etc.), your school systems are good...Canada has a good reputation...similar to the US without as much of the bad stuff. Sell yourself that way.

[carslo 0]

I too have worries about finding a job equal to or better to what I presently do in BC. I have worked as a Special Education Assistant for the past 18 years. I realized early on that I would need an AA to do the job here in the USA as outlined in the "No Child Let Behind Act", so I went back to school and not only got my AA but completed my B/A. With cut backs in education scheduled in the Los Angeles area, I am concerned. I have done all I can to prepare for my upcoming move to the USA. I have taken additional training in the medical aspect of my job: cauterization, suctioning, tube feeding, seizure management, and Non-violent Crisis Intervention Prevention training and upgrading. I will have letters of recommendation from Administration, Classroom teachers covering many grade levels, Support Teachers and parents. Plus from my volunteer work with Girl Guides since 1988. I am putting together my CV/portfolio and can only hope that I can get an interview. I am confident that if I can get an interview, I will be hired - they would be the losers for not hiring me. I have also send my information off to have it evaluated to the American standards, a B/A in General Studies with a Minor in History should likely equal a Liberal Arts degree here or perhaps a Hisotry degree depending. I have mostly history courses. I have found that in Canada I was required to have more academic courses to get my degree than what I have seen my stepchildren taking. Perhaps that is just a reflection on the institution that they are attending.

I truly want to work with special needs students in a school setting - partly for the love of the job and the other reasons is I can't imagine going back to a job with 1 or 2 weeks vacation a year after all the time we get in the education field. I also worry as I am not longer a "spring chicken" at 52 I am not old but well experienced.

Good luck,

Janet