how to write a resume canada

Canadian Resume [Format, Tips & Examples for 2024]

Canada is a unique country that combines some traits you’ll find in the USA with some you’ll find in Europe.

This goes for resumes, too.

That’s why, when applying for a job in Canada, you have to make sure your resume conforms to Canadian application standards.

Naturally, you might be wondering - what does a Canadian resume even look like?

If you’re a foreigner, you’re likely drawing a blank trying to figure out what makes a Canadian resume different from the one in your own country. Even if you’re Canadian, you might still need to brush up on your resume writing skills.

Luckily for you, we’re here to show you how to write a compelling Canadian resume.

Here’s what we’re going to go over:

• Differences Between Canadian, US, and European Resumes
• Canadian Resume Formatting
• A Step-By-Step Breakdown on How To Write A Canadian Resume

And more!  Let’s get started!

Canadian Resume Example

Let’s take a look at a Canadian resume example:

Here’s what this resume does right:

• Reverse-chronological format. This format highlights your most recent work experience first and is a recruiter favorite all around the world.
• Relevant contact details. This resume example highlights the candidate’s first and last name, phone number, email address, location, and LinkedIn URL.
• Captivating resume summary. The paragraph nested in the header summarizes the candidate’s most essential skills and accomplishments.
• Action words. The candidate uses action verbs and power words to describe work responsibilities.
• Bullet points. The resume leverages bullet points to appear easy to read, organized, and reader-friendly.
• Additional sections. Language proficiency, certifications, awards, and interests all give a holistic view of the candidate and add value to their application.

Free Canadian Resume Templates

Creating a resume from scratch is time-consuming work. 

You need to twitch the margins, keep the fonts uniform, carefully align every element you add, and make sure it never spills over to page two.

But you can skip all that hassle if you use a resume template .

Novoresume’s templates are created in collaboration with recruiters and meet all job market requirements. 

Any template you use can save you time and let you write your resume in minutes.

Canadian Resume Specifics

There are a few basic things to keep in mind when crafting your Canadian resume. First things first:

The terms resume and CV can be used interchangeably in parts of Canada. In Quebec, for example, both terms refer to a one or two-page-long summary of a candidate’s career that’s tailored to the job they’re applying for.

Outside of Quebec, however, a CV is different from a resume in that it’s far more detailed and appropriate for academic positions or specific senior-level applications. 

Most job postings will ask for a resume unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Some other things to keep in mind about Canadian resumes include:

• Keep your resume one to two pages . A one-page resume is more than enough if you’re a recent graduate or new to the job market. Two-page resumes are recommended for seasoned professionals, and in certain cases, a three-page resume can be acceptable.
• Write your resume in the same language as the job offer. If you’re going for a position in Quebec and the advertisement is in French, then use French. Don’t assume they’ll accept a resume in English unless it’s explicitly written so on the job posting.
• Skip personal information and photos. Your resume should never give away your appearance, gender, age, ethnicity, nationality, religion, marital status, number of children, or any personal identification numbers.
• Don’t list references with your application unless the employer has requested them. Assumably, you can provide references if requested, so dedicating space on your resume when you’re not asked to is a waste.

Canadian Resume vs. US Resume

Both the USA and Canada prefer using resumes over CVs. In fact, Canadian and US resumes are almost identical.

The biggest difference? The language the document is written in.

You might be thinking - wait, I thought Canada used English?

Only partly.

Canada has two official languages - English and French. Both of these languages have standardized Canadian spellings, so that means they are not 100% the same as American English or European French.

Most of the terminology on your Canadian resume will be just about the same as it would be on its US equivalent. The biggest difference will probably be the added “u” to words like colour, and favourite , and the spelling of words like catalogue, centre, and cheque, as opposed to catalog, center, and check.

Before submitting your application, consider using a grammar checker like Grammarly or QuillBot to make sure your resume is up to par with Canadian spelling conventions .

Canadian Resume vs. European Resume

Typically, a resume in most of Europe, Asia, and the Pacific is referred to as a CV. The term resume in Canada refers to the same document that a CV refers to in Europe.

Both documents are meant to be one to two pages long, and list skills and experience relevant to the position you’re applying for. So in this sense, a European CV is actually different from a Canadian CV.

In Canada, a CV is an extensive document and is usually required in academic settings rather than for corporate job applications. The CV can be anywhere from two to ten pages long since it’s meant to list everything - from work experience to projects to publications.

European resumes also tend to be more detailed. For example, they can include details on high school education and grades, even if the candidate has a college degree. In Canada, that’s not the case. Your high school education is irrelevant if you have a higher degree of education.

The biggest difference between Canadian resumes and European ones is the amount of personal information you’re allowed to give away. For example, in Germany including a picture of yourself on your resume is common, but that’s absolutely not the case in Canada. There, your date of birth and nationality are a no-go.

These bits of information can be used to discriminate against you, so you’re supposed to keep them out of your resume as a precaution to give everyone a fair chance. Recruiters often consider resumes that overshare details of the candidate’s life (e.g.: race, age, date of birth, religion, political affiliation, etc.) unprofessional.

Step-By-Step Guide to Writing Your Canadian Resume

You’ve seen what a Canadian resume looks like. Now it’s time to write your own.

If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry -  we’ve here to help you get it right.

Just follow these steps:

#1. Use the Correct Format

The most popular resume format in Canada is the reverse-chronological format (which is also called the chronological format).

It’s so widely used that it’s expected by most recruiters. The chronological format puts your most recent work experiences first and then goes back in time.

Here’s an example of what it looks like:

One of the other formats is the functional resume format , also known as the skills-based resume format, which focuses on your key strengths and abilities. It’s recommended for career changers or recent graduates with little-to-no experience in the field they’re applying for.

Then, we have the combination resume format . As the name suggests, it mixes elements of both the chronological and functional format. This format gives equal attention to a candidate’s experience and skills. It provides a detailed skill summary and is a good choice for applicants who have a noticeable employment gap but plenty of work experience nonetheless.

#2. Follow These Layout Tips

If your resume looks cluttered and unorganized, the hiring manager is less likely to want to read it.

But paying attention to your resume’s layout can get you a better chance.

Stick to these formatting tips when building your Canadian resume:

• Have separate sections for all the information you want to add.
• Use a professional and easily legible resume font . 
• Let your resume breathe - leave in enough white space so the contents are easier to read, by setting your resume margins to 1” on all sides. 
• Save your resume in the correct document size. Canadian resumes use a standard North American letter size (8.5 x 11 inches), instead of the A4 size common elsewhere. You can do this easily in the Novoresume editor by choosing “Layout” in the top menu and choosing “US Letter Format”.

#3. List the Right Contact Information

Once you’ve sorted out your resume layout, it’s time to start filling in its content.

The contact information section is the first thing you should list. Here’s what to include:

• Name and surname
• Canadian phone number
• Address (City and Province)
• Professional email address

Optionally, you can include a link to your LinkedIn profile, a personal website, or an online portfolio. Just make sure they’re updated and relevant to the application.

#4. Write Your Resume Summary

Each resume only has a few seconds to catch a recruiter’s attention, so you have to make yours eye-catching and easy to read.

Here’s where a resume summary comes in. 

Going at the top of your resume, a resume summary is a two or three-sentence-long summary of your career. It includes:

• Your professional title and years of experience. 
• Two-three of your biggest achievements.
• One-two of your top relevant skills for the position.

If you’re less experienced, you can opt for a resume objective instead. A resume objective focuses on your skills and motivation to grow in your chosen field, rather than on prior experience and professional achievements.

When applying for a remote job for a company based in Canada, mention this in your resume summary. If you’re looking for a company that’s going to relocate you to Canada , make sure to mention that in your resume instead, so you don’t waste time for yourself or the hiring manager.

#5. Include Your Work Experience

Work experience is the most important section on a Canadian resume . 

It lets you expand on your past achievements and responsibilities, proving to the hiring manager you’re the best candidate for the job.

Here’s how you should structure this section:

• Start with your most recent job and go back in time. That said, don’t go back more than ten or 15 years ago, even if you’re a senior professional. The hiring manager doesn’t care about your job as a server from back in college.
• Start with your job title. The recruiter will immediately know if you have the necessary experience for the job from reading your job title.
• Add your company name and location. Sometimes you can even add a brief description of your former employer, particularly if it’s a smaller business that isn’t well-known.
• Include your dates of employment. There’s no need to be super detailed, so just stick to the mm/yyyy format.
• List your job responsibilities and achievements. Provide 4-6 bullet points for your most recent position and 2-3 bullets for older jobs.

Structuring your work experience the right way is only half the work. To stand out from the competition, you want this section to be as impressive as possible.

Here are a few tips and tricks to help with that:

• Reference the job ad, and focus on the top skills and qualifications required from candidates. Tailor your work experience around the skills that you do have to draw attention away from the ones you don’t.
• Focus more on achievements over day-to-day responsibilities. The hiring manager already has an idea of what your responsibilities for a certain job were. What they’re interested to know is what you achieved while doing it.
• Quantify your accomplishments as often as possible. Use the Laszlo Bock formula ( “accomplished X as measured by Y by doing Z” ) to provide a timeframe, scale, and results for what you’ve achieved. e,g: “ Increased annual revenue growth from 5% to 10% through the implementation of a financial roadmap. ” 
• Use powerful words and action verbs . Recruiters hate hearing generic phrases like “responsible for” or “team player,” so using the right vocabulary can help you stick out. 

Are you a recent graduate with no work experience on your resume ? Don’t sweat it - we’ve got a guide to help you find your first job .

#6. Add Your Education

In Canadian resumes, the education section typically goes right under your work experience.

Here’s how you should format this section:

• Program Name. E.g: “B.A. in Computer Science”
• University Name. E.g: “Ohio State University”
• Years Attended. E.g: “08/2018 - 06/2022”
• Achievements (optional). E.g. “Minor in Linguistics” 

It should look something like this:

B.A. in Computer Science

Concordia University

08/2019 - 06/2023

• Summa Cum Laude
• Minor in Business Analytics

Follow these tips to make this section pop:

• Don’t describe your high school education if you have a university degree.
• Mention courses you’ve taken that are relevant to the industry you’re applying to. (E.g: Statistics and Probability for a Data Analyst)
• Stick to a reverse chronological format when listing your degrees. E.g: A Ph.D. is listed above a Master’s Degree, which is listed above a Bachelor’s degree, etc.
• If you don’t have work experience, you can emphasize your academic background. Just list your education at the top of your resume instead of the work experience.

#7. Highlight Your Greatest Skills & Strengths

The skill section shows which candidates have the necessary expertise for the job, and no Canadian resume is complete without it.

Skills are typically divided into two categories:

• Soft skills consist of personality traits and characteristics developed in your personal and professional life. They involve communication skills , people skills, interpersonal skills , etc.
• Hard skills, or technical abilities, are skills you can gain from experience, training, or education. These can include computer skills or proficiency in the use of specific tools.

The trick here is, don’t list every skill you’ve ever learned, just the ones relevant to the job you’re applying for.

If you’re going to be a graphic designer, your Photoshop skills are more important than your forklift certification. Recruiters want to know which skills make you the right candidate for them, not which skills make you the most well-rounded individual.

Scan the job description and jot down which of your skills the company is looking for. Then add them to your Canadian resume.

Just make sure you don’t focus solely on one type of skill over the other. A good application covers both soft skills and hard skills, depending on the job requirements.

Here’s an example:

#8. Leverage Additional Sections

If you’ve covered all the essential resume sections and have some space left, consider adding some optional resume sections.

These sections aren’t as vital as the ones we’ve covered so far, and they won’t do as much heavy lifting on your resume as your work experience, skills, or education.

However, they can help set you apart from candidates with similar work experience and skills as yours. 

For example, if choosing between two equally qualified professionals, and the position includes collaboration with French-speaking employees or business partners, the hiring manager is likely to choose a candidate who can speak French.

Here are the additional sections you can include on your resume:

• Languages . Being able to communicate in more than one language gives you an advantage over other candidates.
• Internships. Adding any relevant internships to your resume shows you have some experience that’s prepared you for the job you’re applying to.
• Volunteer experience . Any experience volunteering is a great addition to any resume since it shows you’re a caring person who wants to give back to your community.
• Hobbies and interests . Certain hobbies or interests might give the hiring manager a look into who you are as a person, and work in your favor.
• Certifications and awards. Any relevant qualifications or awards, such as online classes, can go here.
• Publications. If you’ve published anything, ranging from magazines to research articles, you can add it to your resume.
• Projects. Interesting projects you’ve worked on can show the hiring manager your passion and dedication to your field.

#9. Include a cover letter

Cover letters are still an essential companion piece to any resume.

Adding a cover letter to your application shows the hiring manager you’re ready to take all the necessary steps to land the job.

Cover letters also complement resumes by allowing you to elaborate on things you don’t have the space for in your resume, such as certain achievements or employment gaps.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what your cover letter should include:

• Header. As with your resume, include your updated contact information with your name, surname, Canadian phone number, and professional email address. Be sure to include the employer’s contact information as well.
• Greeting line. Make sure you address the cover letter correctly with a greeting line like “ Dear John Doe, ” or “ Dear Mr. Doe, ”. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, just use something like “ Dear [Department] Team. ” 
• Introduction. Start off with a brief summary of why you’re writing the letter and which position you’re interested in. To grab the hiring manager’s attention, use your opening paragraph to also describe two or three of your top achievements.
• Qualifications and motivation. The body of your cover letter should emphasize your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the position. Use it to explain exactly what makes you the right candidate and how you’re the right fit for the company.
• Closing paragraph . Wrap up your letter with a call to action and an official signature line.

Struggling to write your cover letter? Check out these cover letter examples to get inspired.

FAQs About Canadian Resumes

Do you still have any questions? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Canadian resumes.

1. How can I create a Canadian resume as an international student?

Whether you’re looking to apply to a university in Canada, secure an internship , or land your first job after your graduation, your main focus should be on your academic achievements.

Education is highly valued in Canada and your credentials and relevant coursework will boost your resume, so long as you keep it relevant to the position you’re applying for.

When describing your education, you can also add the location next to your school or university’s name. E.g.: “Marmara University, Turkey” instead of just “Marmara University”.

2. Should the Canadian resume be in a PDF or Word file format?

Generally speaking, a PDF is the preferred format for resumes since it remains the same regardless of what operating system or device you use to open it. Moreover, it keeps your formatting and illustrations in place, and can’t be edited by accident when a recruiter mislicks.

Most career websites in Canada accept resumes as both PDF and Word files. Nonetheless, we recommend you have your Canadian resume exported to PDF unless the job ad specifically requests Word.

3. Do Canadians say CV or resume?

Depending on what part of Canada you’re in, people might say CV and resume interchangeably. However, outside of Quebec, these are two different documents.

Resumes are typically not longer than two pages and are meant to be tailored to the job you’re applying for. CVs, on the other hand, are far more detailed and appropriate for academic settings or specific senior-level applications.

4. What should you NOT include on a Canadian resume?

As an anti-discrimination measure, pictures of yourself and personal information, are legally prohibited from job applications. This means your nationality, age, gender, religion, immigration status, political affiliation, marital status, and social insurance number, have no place on your resume.

Another thing to keep in mind is that it’s taboo for applicants to include their salary expectations on a Canadian resume. Salary expectations should only be provided if requested by the employer, and even then, they are best included in a cover letter, never on your resume.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a- boot it for Canadian resumes!

Let’s recap the main things you need to know on the subject:

• Canadian resumes are essentially the same as US resumes. You won’t have any difficulties applying with a US resume for a position in Canada, but Canadian English is preferred over standardized American English.
• A Canadian resume is the equivalent of a CV in Europe and most other parts of the world. However, a CV in Canada is a much longer document that’s used mostly to apply for jobs in academia.
• Keep your formatting clear, and use separate sections and legable fonts when building your resume.
• When applying to jobs in Canada, you should never include anything that could be used to discriminate against you, such as information about your age, nationality, and immigration status, or pictures of yourself.

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

Canada Resume: 10+ Examples, Formats, Templates & 2024 Resume Writing Tips

Applying for a job in Canada? This Canada resume guide has the templates, tips, examples, & format requirements needed to write the perfect resume.

“Software developer looking to work for prestigious software companies…”

“Software developer with 10+ years of experience scaling data-intensive software companies…”

The difference between those two lines while appears to be small creates a big difference when you use them on your Canadian resume.

Read further.

This Canadian resume writing guide will help you if:

• You are someone outside of Canada creating a resume for Canadian jobs
• Or, someone within Canada trying to best adapt an existing resume

We will go over the following details in this article:

• Popular Canadian resume formats and how to select the right one for you
• How to write a Canadian resume
• 10 Canadian resume examples to inspire you
• How to convert your current resume to a Canadian-style resume

Before we get into that, try out VisualCV’s resume-building platform - built with love out of Vancouver, Canada - the best way to build a Canadian resume.

What is the Canadian Resume Format?

A Canadian resume format is a structured way of showcasing your contact information, past work experience, skills, education and important information that will help a hiring manager assess your suitability for the job. A typical Canadian resume uses either of these formats: reverse chronological, function, or combination.

The 3 Popular Canadian Resume Formats

The top 3 Canadian resume formats are:

• Reverse chronological resume format
• Functional resume format
• Combination resume format

These are the resume formats that are popular across Canada. We saw chronological and functional resumes top the choice while combination resume format was the third choice.

Surprisingly, job seekers in Toronto preferred a reverse chronological resume over any other resume format.

Let’s now take a look at these Canadian resume format examples.

Chronological Canadian Resume Format Example

Here’s what a Canadian resume built using the chronological resume format would look like:

Is a Reverse Chronological Format Right for Your Canadian Resume?

Reverse chronological resume right for you if:

• You have relevant work experience to highlight.
• You aren’t changing careers (e.g. software engineer applying for a marketing position)
• Your total work experience is less than 20 years.

Functional Canadian Resume Format Example

Here’s what a Canadian resume built using the functional resume format would look like:

Is a Functional Format Right for Your Canadian Resume?

Functional resume right for you if:

• You have to explain how your skills are relevant to the advertised position
• You wish to highlight your outstanding skills and achievements
• If you wish to lead with your skills instead of experience

Combination Canadian Resume Format Example

Here’s what a Canadian resume built using the combination resume format would look like:

Is a Combination Format Right for Your Canadian Resume?

Combination resume right for you if:

• If you are right a resume with more than 15 years of experience
• You’ve worked across a range of companies, industries of jobs
• You wish to highlight your overall qualifications in terms of skills and expertise over work experience

Combination resumes are not that popular across Canada though, so if you are planning on using one - exercise caution. Make sure to revisit your resume to ensure it conveys your skills in a meaningful way.

Let's now address the next item on our list - a good Canadian resume template.

Canadian Resume Template

If you are looking for a few more format specific resume templates, here are a few that are just perfect for the popular Canadian resume formats.

Reverse Chronological Canadian Resume Template

Canadian Resume Template with Functional Resume Format

Canadian Resume Template with Combination Resume Format

Alright, you now know what a typical Canadian-style resume looks like and what templates to use. But, what should you add to it? Let’s cover that now.

How to Write a Canadian Resume?

After helping hundreds of thousands of job seekers optimize their Canadian resumes, we can assure you that the best way to write a Canadian resume is:

• Based on your experience and skills, select the right resume format.
• Pick a resume template that supports your important resume sections.
• Add your full name, contact information, and link out to Linkedin or relevant portfolio
• Write a resume summary/objective of two lines.
• Write your work, volunteer, or project experience following the STAR method.
• List your top skills - make sure to customize them based on the job ad.
• List your education in a separate section.

If you follow these 7 points listed above, you can easily beat 9/10 applicants for the job.

But, let’s not leave it here. Let’s show you how you can go from the top 10% to the top 1% of applicants.

To be the best, you’ll have to write each section of your Canadian resume with care. This is where the top 1% of applicants differentiate themselves.

To help you craft your resume’s section with ease, we created these templates that you can use and write those sections. You can find them below.

Work Experience Format for a Canadian Resume

[Job title] [Company name, City, Province] [Date started] - [Date ended]

• [Task 1] [Situatuation faced and the solution used]
• [Task 2] [Situatuation faced and the solution used]
• [Task 3] [Situatuation faced and the solution used]
• [Task 4] [Situatuation faced and the solution used]

Example of Listing Canadian Work Experience on Resume

Important things to keep in mind when using this Canadian resume’s work experience template:

• Ideal to keep each task/achievement to one line
• Using simpler words would help as it improves readability
• Customize your work experience based on the job ad

Canadian Resume Summary Format

"[Job title] with [number of years] experience of [top 2-3 skills] across [industries]. Achieved [top achievement]. Expert at [X], [Y], and [Z]."

You can additionally list the following within your resume summary too:

• Any awards that you’ve received
• Any passions you have

A simple glance by a Canadian hiring manager would provide them with all the right information they need to continue reading further.

You can also adapt this Canadian resume summary format to write an objective too.

Note : If you are writing your Canadian resume for a career transition or your first job - write an objective instead of a summary.

Objectives help connect your skills and experience to the job that you are applying for.

Format to List Skills on Your Canadian Resume

To list skills on your Canadian resume, try the format provided below: Technical Skills

Example of How to List Skills on a Canadian Resume

Make sure to list skills that are relevant to the role that you are applying for and are impactful.

Let’s now look at 10 Canadian Resume Examples. If you wish to access resume examples specific to your job title, click the button below and sign-up.

10 Canadian Resume Examples

Canadian resume example for data engineering.

Sales Canadian Resume Example

Canadian Resume Example for Accountants

Writer Resume Example for Canada

Canadian Resume Example for Executives

Canadian Software Engineering Resume Example

Canadian Designer Resume Example

Project Management Resume for Canada

Retail Canadian Resume Example

Canadian Resume Example for Teachers

Now that you understand how to create a Canadian resume, let’s clear some frequently asked questions.

Is a Canadian Resume Format Different from An American Resume Format?

No, Canadian resumes are extremely similar to American resumes.

Applying for Jobs, but Getting no responses? Maybe, it’s your resume!

How to Convert my Indian Resume to a Canadian Resume?

To convert your Indian resume to a Canadian resume, follow these steps:

• Customize your resume to ensure it is relevant to the job you’re trying to land.
• Remove any hard English words (e.g. esteemed), instead, use easy-to-read words.
• Remove photo, nationality, race, gender, and your full address. Those aren’t required in Canada.
• Follow the STAR method while writing your work experience.
• While listing your certifications, make sure they are recognized by Canadian employers.
• Add a short summary or objective at the top of your resume. Make sure it isn’t more than two lines and is very impactful.
• While listing your education be careful not to list CGPA, instead standardize your scores to a GPA scale and list it. GPAs greater than 3.7 look good, else it is better to not list them.
• While listing your contact information, make sure to list the Canadian city and province along with a Canadian phone number. +91 numbers won’t help here.
• Finally, resumes in India generally appear to be more than two pages. Make sure yours isn’t more than two pages. Ideal to have a relevant resume of one page.

Once you follow these additional instructions and follow our general guidelines at the top - it should be easy to transform your Indian resume into a Canadian resume.

How to Convert my European CV to Canadian Resume?

To change your European CV to a Canadian resume, follow these steps:

• While European CVs differ from country to country, some common things to remove from your resume - birthdate, citizenship, photo, etc.
• Hobbies constantly surface in entry-level EU CVs, we recommend that you remove them when applying for Canadian jobs.
• Select one of the following Canadian resume formats: chronological, functional, or combination.
• Make sure you have a summary/objective, work history, skills, education, and certifications section (if any).
• Follow the STAR method while writing your resume. It is a must!
• Avoid adding paragraphs as it would reduce the readability of your resume.
• Scan your resume for grammatical errors.

Checkout our other international resume guides here.

How Long Should my Canadian Resume be?

A rule of thumb - for students and professionals with less than 15 years of experience the resume should be one page or a maximum of two pages. For Canadian job seekers with more than 15 years of relevant experience, more than two pages is acceptable.

Should I Add a Photo to my Canadian Resume?

No, avoid adding a Photo while creating a Canadian resume.

Is it a Good Idea to List Marital Status on a Resume for Canada?

No Canadian employer would ever ask for this information as a part of their recruitment process. So, we would recommend that you don’t list marital status on your resume.

Should I List My Nationality on a Canadian Resume?

Legally, no Canadian employer can ask you about your nationality. So, we would not recommend that you list it on your resume.

Can I Lie on My Canadian Resume?

Don’t lie on your Canadian resume. With background checks, reference checks, etc being so common, you’ll be caught. Even a small-innocent lie like a difference of month or days in starting dates of your employment could lead to rejection.

How to Write a Canadian Resume with No Canadian Experience?

• Focus on Transferable Skills : Highlight skills from your previous jobs that are relevant to the position you're applying for.
• Canadianize Your Resume : Use Canadian terminology and metrics where applicable.
• Include Volunteer Work and Internships : These can showcase your commitment and experience.
• Emphasize Education : Highlight your academic achievements and any relevant coursework.
• Tailor Your Resume : Customize your resume for each job application to match the job requirements.

Do I need a Cover Letter With my Canadian Resume?

Yes, including a cover letter with your Canadian resume is highly recommended because it allows you to introduce yourself, highlight key qualifications, and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and company. A cover letter also provides an opportunity to personalize your application by tailoring it to the specific job and employer, making you stand out among other applicants.

Should I Save my Canadian Resume as .Docx or .PDF Format?

You should save your Canadian resume as a PDF format because it ensures that the formatting remains consistent across different devices and software, presents a more polished and professional appearance, and is the preferred format for most employers due to its ease of use and compatibility.

Copyright © 2024 Workstory Inc.

Select Your Language:

Canadian resume and cover letter: Format, tips, and templates

For many newcomers, finding employment quickly after moving to Canada is a high-priority action item. Whether you’re contemplating a career switch or looking to get back in your field of work, the first step is usually the same – to have a resume and a cover letter that you can share with potential employers or networking contacts.    

In this article, we will explore the Canadian-style resume in detail, highlight some key differences between a resume and a curriculum vitae (CV), and help you identify which resume format might be best suited to your career goal. We will also go over some useful tips to craft an ATS-friendly resume to ensure you stand out from the competition and get noticed by employers, hiring managers, and recruiters.

In this article:

• What is the difference between a resume and a CV?

Understanding the types of resume formats used in Canada

Tips for writing a canadian-style resume, what is the difference between a resume and a curriculum vitae (cv).

Often, there are two ways job seekers can showcase their professional experience to an employer: by using a resume or a CV. In Canada, employers prefer a resume. A CV is mainly used only for academic applications such as academic jobs, grants, research fellowships, etc. 

To provide more clarity, here are some key differences between a resume and a CV:

Many countries use a CV instead of a resume, and some have a combination of both. Some regions use both terms interchangeably: for instance, in most European countries as well as New Zealand, the term CV is used to describe an equivalent of a Canadian resume. In Australia and South Africa, “curriculum vitae” and “resume” are synonyms that can be used interchangeably. In South Asia, the terms CV and resume are used interchangeably and refer to an equivalent of a traditional CV.  

In some parts of the world, it’s common to include personal information such as marital status, nationality, personal interests, hobbies, date of birth, address, and a photograph on a CV. In Canada, however, you shouldn’t include these details on your resume as it is not required under the employment law, and it is also not a part of the resume format.

As a job seeker in Canada, there are three types of resume formats you should be familiar with. Each of these formats includes the same basic information in a different layout. 

1. Reverse chronological resume

This type of resume outlines your professional experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent position.

When to use a reverse chronological resume?

If you’re an experienced professional with at least some experience in the workforce, have no major employment gaps , and intend to continue working in the same field.

Tip: The reverse chronological resume is the most popular format in the Canadian job market. Most employers and recruiters are used to and prefer a resume in this format.

2. Functional resume

The functional resume focuses on your overall skills and qualifications instead of specific professional experiences. The employment history is still included, but it is usually listed after skills and education. 

When to use a functional resume?

If you’re looking to switch roles and/or industries and start your career in a new field. It may also be ideal for recent college graduates.  

3. Combination or hybrid resume

A combination resume is a mix of the reverse-chronological layout and the functional layout and is ideal for showcasing transferable skills along with professional experience. In this format, work experience is usually outlined in a reverse chronological format, and the skills section includes a summary of qualifications and technical skills (or core competencies). 

When to use a combination or hybrid resume?

It is commonly used by a variety of job seekers ranging from experienced workers to recent graduates to those with limited experience, multiple short-term work stints, or those having significant work gaps. 

Need more guidance on how to write a Canadian-style resume? For a stepwise approach, check out: How to write a resume for the Canadian job market 10 resume mistakes to avoid when applying for jobs in Canada

Download the free Resume and cover letter templates to craft your Canadian resume

Mastering the art of writing a flawless and impactful Canadian-style resume takes practice and patience. Here are a few tips to help you improve your resume-writing skills. 

1. Adapt your resume to each job listing and keep it relevant

Having a generic resume and sharing it with multiple employers for a variety of positions/roles may not yield the best result for you. It is essential to customize your resume to each position that you’re applying for. Tailor your work experience, skills, and any additional information to the role. Include keywords from the job posting and always start your sentence with relevant action verbs like spearheaded, achieved, managed, trained, etc. Craft a compelling summary for your resume. Avoid including very detailed information for each position you have held; you can share relevant details in the interview instead. 

Job interview resources:  How to prepare for a job interview 10 common job interview questions and how to answer them

2. Optimize for Applicant Tracking System (ATS) but write for humans

Many companies use an ATS to pre-screen resumes and then involve recruiters and hiring managers later in the process. You need to keep both in mind when writing your resume. 

What is an ATS?

An ATS is a software that scans resumes to determine if it is a good match for a specific job listing. Parameters such as work experience, skills, and education are usually considered during the ATS screening process. Resumes that match the pre-defined criteria are forwarded to hiring managers or recruiters, while human eyes never see those rejected by the system. Therefore, even though you may be qualified for the position, if your resume isn’t optimized for an ATS, it may end up being rejected. An ATS is widely used by organizations, recruiters, and job placement agencies in Canada. 

How to optimize a resume for ATS

• Use standard formatting and don’t include images, designs, charts, and tables. 
• Use correct headers and include keywords that match the job description and desired core competencies and skills.
• Send your resume as a Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) document. Most ATS systems tend to process Word files better than PDF. 
• Spell out abbreviations at least once on your resume. 
• Include experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the position.
• Avoid long paragraphs and font size less than size 10. 
• Convert technical terms, grades, and scores to their Canadian equivalents. 

3. Check spelling, grammar, punctuation, and proofread your resume

It’s always a good idea to proofread your resume and check grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence formation, especially if English isn’t your first language or mother tongue. There are many free tools that can help you with proofreading: Grammarly as well as the in-built grammar and spelling tool in Microsoft Word, are good starting points. You can also ask a native English speaker to review your resume for language fluency.  

To help you finesse your English language skills and get more tips and advice from an experienced teacher, Karen Thomson, read How to improve your English and adapt to Canadian culture .

4. Quantify your accomplishments

Many job seekers make the mistake of outlining roles and responsibilities instead of achievements. Recruiters and hiring managers prefer seeing quantified accomplishments on resumes. The ‘CAR’ approach is a good way to help you structure individual sentences: 

C = what was the Challenge , A = what Action did you take, and R = what was the Result .

Some examples to consider:

• “Reached eBay Power Seller status within one year by auctioning over 400 items per month, an exceptional accomplishment reached by only 4 per cent of the 29 million eBay sellers at that time.” 
• “Designed and built statistical analysis models on large data sets (e.g. Aster, Teradata) that helped increase online sales (up to 15 per cent per product) and lowered cart-abandonment rate by 23 per cent.” 

5. Include a cover letter

A cover letter is a formal one-page document that accompanies a resume. It is not a rephrased or concise version of your resume, but it is mainly supposed to talk about how you fit the role you’re applying for and why the organization should hire you. The cover letter is also a good way to justify any gaps in your resume or provide any additional info that your resume can’t.

Note that a cover letter doesn’t have to be a separate document but can also be included in the body of an email when applying for a job. Adding a custom, well-written cover letter to your resume can make you stand out from the crowd, thus improving your chances of being approached for an interview. 

Tips for writing an impressive Canadian-style cover letter

• Limit the length to one page.
• Tailor your cover letter to suit each job application.
• Proofread your cover letter; check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling, especially since it serves as a reflection of your communication skills.
• Use a standard font size (10 or 12 points, in a font style such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri). Avoid using special effects (bold/underline/italics, different fonts, and colour).
• Weave in information you know about the company, their recent projects, or organizational culture and values.

Looking for more guidance on cover letters? Read How to write an effective cover letter for advice and insights from recruiters.

6. Show off your skills with unpaid or local volunteer work

This is a good way for newcomers to show Canadian experience on their resume. If your volunteer work requires you to use skills that may also be valued in the position that you are applying for, adding the volunteer experience to your resume may work to your advantage.

Tip: Volunteering can help you build your network and earn Canadian experience. To discover the importance of volunteering in Canada, and learn how to find volunteering opportunities, read The benefits of volunteering as a newcomer in Canada .

Things our lawyers want you to know

This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.

Related Posts

About Arrive

Arrive is operated by Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), the largest bank in Canada* and one of the most reputed banks in the world, employing 80,000 people worldwide. In collaboration with RBC, Arrive is dedicated to helping newcomers achieve their life, career, and financial goals in Canada.

*Based on market capitalization

Disclaimer: This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.

Get the latest updates, resources, and stories about the Canadian experience.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Canadian Resume Format & How-to Guide for 2024

In This Guide:

Canadian resume template, what is the canadian resume format, what is the difference between a canadian and an american (us) resume, what is the difference between a canadian resume and a european cv, how to write a canadian resume, faq about canadian resumes, key takeaways.

Canada plans to invite 1.45 million new permanent residents  by 2025 to address labor shortages and an aging population. This move not only aims to strengthen the workforce and ensure immigrant skills meet job demands but also addresses challenges newcomers face in securing appropriate employment.

The country offers a unique blend of American and European characteristics, and this extends to its job application process, especially when it comes to resumes. Understanding the Canadian resume format is crucial whether you're applying for a job within the country for the first time as a foreigner, or you're a Canadian looking to refine your resume writing skills.

But how does a resume tailored for Canada differ from an American one? This guide provides all the details on what makes a Canadian resume unique, alongside practical advice and examples to help you craft a resume that could open doors to new opportunities in Canada.

Here's what we'll explore:

• The distinct features of Canadian resumes compared to American and European formats;
• A detailed guide on crafting your resume to meet Canadian standards;
• An exploration of frequently asked questions, providing thorough answers and insights;
• Advice for making your Canadian resume stand out to employers.

Plus much more! Let's begin!

Find if your resume passes the Canadian format!

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

This template has been optimized to meet the demands of the Canadian resume format. It follows a chronological work experience section. Furthermore, it has no photo in the header, something that’s typically frowned upon in Canada.

Last but not least, Enhancv’s Canadian resume template supports a two-page resume format, which is one of the things that sets apart Canadian and US resumes.

The Canadian resume format is a structured approach to presenting your work history and skills relevant to the job you're applying for. It starts with a header section  that contains your name, phone number, current location, and email address. If you have a LinkedIn profile , include the URL in your contact information. Many Canadian employers use LinkedIn to research potential candidates. Following the header, you need to put either a summary or objective to give a snapshot of your career goals and strengths. Next, the resume details your work history, education, and skills. Personal details like marital status and photos are not included, allowing the focus to remain on your expertise.

Making a resume for Canada is similar to the United States but for a few important differences. Both countries use resumes more than CVs, and they usually look alike. Yet, spelling matters a lot in Canada. Though Canada uses English, it also embraces French, affecting some English spellings. To make sure your resume fits Canadian preferences, follow these tips:

• Use Canadian spellings , like " behaviour " and " neighbour ," and prefer " theatre ," " labour ," and " defence ."
• Apply the metric system for measurements, showing familiarity with Canada's standards if applicable. For example, if you worked in distribution, you could mention “leading a team that distributed goods across a 300-kilometer area."
• Write dates in the DD/MM/YYYY format, which is common in Canada.
• Include graphic designs in your resume only if you look for a job as a graphic designer. Typically, Canadians don't include these elements when applying for a new position.
• Employ the services of the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials  to understand the Canadian equivalence of your credentials. Taking this step can help push your job search forward, yet it doesn't secure a job offer.

These small but crucial adjustments show you're ready to work smoothly in Canada. They show your ability to adapt and pay attention to local details, which is appealing to Canadian employers.

The Canadian resume and the European CV serve as key tools in job applications, but they follow different conventions that reflect the job market and cultural expectations of their respective regions. The Canadian resume format is streamlined and job-focused, typically extending to a maximum of two pages  and emphasizing the candidate's most relevant experiences and skills for the specific position.

Moreover, in Canada, when we talk about a CV, we're referring to a very detailed document mostly used in academic settings, not for regular job applications. These CVs are pretty lengthy, going from two to ten pages, and they cover everything from your work history to your projects and any papers you've published.

European resumes, commonly called CVs in the Old Continent, tend to be more detailed compared to Canadian resumes. They include high school education and grades, regardless of higher educational achievements. This level of detail is unnecessary in Canada, where the focus shifts to post-secondary education and adequate work experience .

Another big difference is the inclusion of personal information. In some European countries, including a photo on your resume is common and often expected by employers.

Including photos on your resume is not endorsed in Canada. Personal details such as date of birth, nationality, or other information that could potentially lead to discrimination are omitted in Canadian resumes.  

The goal is to ensure a fair evaluation process, focusing solely on professional qualifications and experiences.

Believe it or not, the Canadian resume is pretty similar to an American. However while the format is similar, the devil is in the details.

When looking for a job in Canada, picking the right resume format  is key because it really affects your chances of success. If you've been working for more than ten years, think about using a reverse chronological resume . This format lists your jobs from newest to oldest, making it easy to see how you've moved up in your career. It's a good way to show your experience in a clear way that employers like, especially in Canada.

In addition to the format, you also need to consider the template. It's important to choose a professionally designed resume template  which can enhance the readability of your resume and create a positive first impression with hiring managers. After you've selected your template, the next step is organizing your Canadian resume.

When creating your Canadian resume, start with a well-organized header that grabs attention. Include essential information like your name, job title, phone number, professional email, and LinkedIn link. Make sure your name matches what's on your professional records and online profiles to make it easy for recruiters to find you.

Moreover, it would be better to use a professional email provider like Gmail or Outlook. Mention the job you're applying for, not your current position, to align your resume with the job listing. Just listing your city is enough for the location, especially if you're applying for jobs in different places.

Finally, when you include links to your LinkedIn or portfolio, make sure they're up-to-date and match your resume.

A clear and concise header, focusing on these key elements, will demonstrate you're a strong candidate for the job. Here’s an example:

Jackson Thompson's resume header is thoughtfully organized and offers quick access to his contact and professional information.

Resume summary

Following the header, the career summary section  appears, offering a concise overview in no more than five sentences that show your key professional achievements. The professional summary focuses on your main strengths and skills related directly to the position's duties and responsibilities. After reading the information in this section, the recruiter has a better understanding of who you are and what skills and abilities you may bring to the position. Tailor this for every job application  to address the company and the position's requirements.

Let’s see an example:

This example shows the applicant's strong expertise in marketing and track record of achievements. Also, it puts the focus on specific skills and growth metrics that are important for Canadian employers.

Work experience

When creating your work experience section  list your previous jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. Include the job title, company name, location, and dates of employment. Describe your responsibilities, achievements, and contributions using bullet points.

Here’s an example of the structure:

• Begin with the latest job  and work backwards, but limit the history to the last 10 to 15 years. Older roles, like a college job, might not interest the hiring manager.
• Lead with the position title , which helps the recruiter assess if your experience aligns with the job requirements.
• Mention the employer's name and its location . For lesser-known companies, a short description might be helpful.
• State the period of employment using the DD/MM/YYYY format , which is concise and clear.
• Describe your responsibilities and accomplishments with 4-6 bullet points for recent roles and 2-3 for previous positions .

Check out the example:

• • Developed and executed a digital marketing strategy that resulted in a 30% increase in website traffic.
• • Managed social media accounts, growing the follower base by 25% in one year.
• • Coordinated with the sales team to create promotional materials that led to a 15% rise in sales.
• • Organized and directed market research studies to inform future marketing strategies.
• • Led a team in implementing innovative email marketing campaigns that boosted lead generation by 20%.
• • Spearheaded the redesign of the company website, improving user engagement metrics by 35%.
• • Established a content marketing plan that increased brand visibility and market penetration.
• • Optimized website content for major search engines, resulting in a top 5 ranking for key terms.
• • Analyzed web analytics to adjust SEO strategies and improve overall website performance.
• • Collaborated with the content creation team to ensure SEO best practices were consistently applied.
• • Assisted in the development and implementation of marketing strategies to enhance brand recognition.
• • Supported the organization of promotional events that led to increased customer engagement.
• • Conducted competitive analysis to inform the marketing team's strategy adjustments.

This example illustrates an effective way to organize your work history when listing multiple previous roles. It emphasizes the importance of conciseness while clearly detailing your responsibilities and successes.

Carefully read the job posting and identify the required qualifications and skills. Take note of particular keywords and phrases  used throughout the description to tailor the resume for the specific role.

The educational background  is an essential part of your Canadian resume and it comes right after the work experience. Here is the place to mention the degree, diploma, and certifications earned, the name of the institution, the location, and the year of graduation . Begin with your most recent educational achievement and proceed in reverse chronological order, mirroring the format of your work history section. Don't forget to highlight any honors or academic distinctions you've received.

For your Canadian resume, consider specifying this information in the education section:

• State the degree you've earned as your degree title .
• Identify the institution where you received your education  as your college or university.
• Include the location of your educational institution .
• Note the year of your graduation  or the anticipated graduation year as your completion date.
• Mention a minor study , for instance, "Minor in Digital Media," to demonstrate a broader skill set within the marketing field.
• List any certificates you obtained  related to your field of study.

Here's how this section can look:

• • Specialized Coursework: Advanced digital marketing strategies and data-driven marketing decisions
• • Graduated with Honors
• • Minor in Digital Media
• • Core Modules: Marketing principles, consumer behavior, and digital media strategy

This example demonstrates a structured approach to presenting your educational background. It shows how to effectively list degrees, institutions, and relevant coursework, ensuring that your qualifications are easily understood by recruiters in Canada.

You may need to have your documents translated into English, French, or both.

It is generally advised to keep the education section simple, ensuring it doesn't overshadow your skills.

Highlight your key skills relevant to the job. This can include technical skills, software proficiency, language proficiency, and any other abilities that showcase your qualifications for the position.

Skills on your resume are categorized into:

• Soft skills  refer to personal qualities and behaviors developed through both life and work experiences. These skills encompass communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving.
• Hard skills  stand in contrast as the specific technical know-how or proficiencies gained through education, training endeavors, or direct experience. For instance, in the context of finance, include specialized expertise like advanced Excel functions for financial analysis, familiarity with QuickBooks for accounting tasks, and adeptness in using Bloomberg terminals for market research.

When curating your skills list, focus on those most relevant to the job at hand. For a front-end developer position, for instance, your proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks such as React or Angular is more relevant than an unrelated skill like martial arts. Employers seek skills that make you an ideal fit for their specific needs, rather than a broad array of abilities.

To ensure your resume resonates with the job description, identify the employer's desired skills and make sure to include them in your Canada resume. Aim for a balanced presentation of both soft and hard skills tailored to meet the requirements of a front-end developer role.

Here’s how you might approach it:

When we talk about resume creation, language skills are more than just a mark of education. They're a bridge to diverse cultures and markets, making them vital in the Canadian job market. Adding languages to your Canadian resume shows your ability to communicate across different cultures.

In Canada, where English and French are widely spoken, being bilingual can significantly boost your job prospects. Including languages on your resume , along with your proficiency levels, signals to employers your capacity to adapt and connect in a multicultural setting. This section is crucial, distinguishing you as a candidate well-suited for the dynamic Canadian work culture.

Languages and additional courses both play a crucial role in enhancing your professional profile, so let's see how to present them properly in your Canadian resume.

This is an ideal moment to demonstrate your passion for learning. Include any relevant training, courses, or seminars to underscore your dedication to ongoing professional growth. It signals to employers your commitment to staying updated with industry trends and techniques, enhancing your appeal as a candidate.

Such educational achievements can be especially crucial in fast-changing sectors, evidencing your readiness to tackle contemporary challenges.

Start with your newest qualifications and list them in time order, similar to how you list job experience and education.

Let's go back to our example of Jackson Thompson, the Marketing Specialist, and check what courses would be relevant for him.

Is your resume good enough?

This part of our guide is your go-to resource for addressing frequently asked questions about crafting resumes for the Canadian job market. Learn how to create cover letters, tips for international applicants, and whether to choose PDF or.docx. Let's begin with the very first topic.

How do I navigate the Canadian job market as a foreigner?

Navigating the Canadian job market as a foreigner can certainly be a challenge, but with the right approach, it's definitely manageable. Here's your compass and map to find your way through.

Let's go forth with precise tips.

• Identify the industry you’re educated in and make your resume resonate with Canadian employers by thoroughly researching the Canadian job market .
• Start building your network  by participating in career fairs, making connections at professional events, and creating a solid LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills.
• Take on freelance opportunities  to gain valuable Canadian experience and integrate yourself into the local professional community.
• Utilize resources such as the Canadian government’s Job Bank  and immigrant-serving organizations  to find valuable assistance in your job search.  
• Demonstrate your readiness to thrive in Canada's diverse workplace by emphasizing your cultural awareness and language skills  in English or French.
• Boost your qualifications by taking courses or getting certifications  from well-known institutions or companies in your area. If we go back to our example for the Marketing Specialist Jackson Thompson, he should focus on acquiring certifications from renowned companies such as Google and Microsoft as these certifications are globally recognized and respected and would serve as a testament to an overseas candidate's skills and knowledge.
• Tailor your resume with each job description  and adapt your application to meet specific employer preferences, including Canadian spelling nuances. Remember, precision, like opting for 'colour' over 'color', demonstrates attention to detail.
• Keep a steady pace and stay resilient in your job search in Canada, and know that finding the right opportunity might take time but your efforts will eventually pay off.

Do I need a cover letter to pair with my resume when applying for a job in Canada?

It's a good idea to include a cover letter  with your resume. A cover letter lets you detail how your skills match the job and the company's needs. It helps you make a strong first impression and gives you space not only to demonstrate your enthusiasm about the position but also to present yourself professionally .

Here's some practical advice for your cover letter:

• Ensure your header aligns with your resume by listing your name, surname, job title, Canadian phone number, and professional email. You can also add a LinkedIn profile or personal website to make your application more engaging.
• Address the cover letter properly  in your greeting line, using 'Dear [Name]' or 'Dear Mr./Ms. [Surname].' If the name of the hiring manager is unknown, 'Dear [Department] Team' works well. This personal touch shows effort and interest.
• Start your cover letter with a powerful opening sentence that highlights your achievements or unique skills, capturing the hiring manager's attention and setting you apart from other applicants.
• In the body of your cover letter, go beyond your resume to tell a compelling story about your skills and experiences. Showcase how you can contribute to the company's success with examples of leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Conclude with a closing paragraph that encourages further dialogue, ensuring you include your signature line.

Open the door to your new job in Canada with our professionally designed cover letter templates . Use our intuitive cover letter builder  to make your own for free.

Should I save my Canadian resume as a .docx or a .pdf file?

The PDF format is highly recommended due to its consistent appearance on various devices and operating systems. It preserves your document's design and visuals and eliminates the risk of unintended edits by the recipient.

Job platforms in Canada commonly accept both PDF and Word documents. However, unless specified otherwise in the job posting, opting to submit your resume as a PDF  is advisable for preserving its intended presentation.

Include your full name in your document filename to make it memorable (i.e. Jackson-Thompson-Resume.pdf)

Do Canadians say “CV” or “Resume”?

In Canada, the terms "resume" and "CV" (Curriculum Vitae) are both used, but they have different meanings. A resume is usually one or two pages long and shows your skills and experience related to the job you want. It's meant to be quick to read and match the job description. Canadian employers prefer this direct and brief way of showing your capabilities.

On the other hand, a CV is much more detailed and covers your whole career, including education, publications, research, and big achievements. It's mainly used in fields like academia, science, and medicine, where showing the full scope of your work matters a lot. CVs are longer than resumes and can be much more than two pages, based on how much you've done in your career.

What NOT to include in my Canadian resume?

In Canada, your cover letter and resume should not contain personal details such as marital status, religion, gender, age, or sexual orientation. Additionally, unless you're seeking a role in modeling or acting, photos are unnecessary. Including such information not only wastes precious space but could also lead employers to bypass your application to avoid potential discrimination claims. It's worth noting that Canadian law prohibits  employers from requesting information regarding your sexual orientation, age, or ethnicity during the application process or interviews. To prevent placing recruiters or employers in a difficult position, it's advisable to exclude these details.

Furthermore, mentioning salary expectations or irrelevant personal interests is considered inappropriate.

• Canada's plan to welcome 1.45 million new residents by 2025 underscores the need for job applicants to craft resumes tailored to specific employer requirements and Canadian English standards.
• In Canada, a resume is concise and job-focused, unlike CVs, which are detailed for academic roles, differing from European CVs that include personal information.
• Adapting your resume for Canada involves using local spellings, the metric system, and specific date formats to meet employer preferences and show an understanding of local culture.
• Choosing the chronological resume format is crucial, along with selecting a professional template for a good first impression.
• Begin your resume with a detailed header and a summary that shows your excellent results from previous jobs and skills relevant to the job you're applying for.
• Including a cover letter with your resume is strongly advised, as it provides an opportunity to demonstrate your enthusiasm and willingness to contribute to the new workplace.

• Resume Guides

How To Answer 'What Was Your Greatest Accomplishment?' In an Interview

Linkedin profile tips: how to create an impressive profile that gets noticed, here's what you need to know before your next job interview, how to list board membership on resume, what casey’s coaching resume example taught us, beyoncé ’s resume proves she is the true artist of the year.

• Create Resume
• Terms of Service
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Preferences
• Resume Examples
• Resume Templates
• AI Resume Builder
• Resume Summary Generator
• Resume Formats
• Resume Checker
• Resume Skills
• How to Write a Resume
• Modern Resume Templates
• Simple Resume Templates
• Cover Letter Builder
• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Templates
• Cover Letter Formats
• How to Write a Cover Letter
• Cover Letter Guides
• Job Interview Guides
• Job Interview Questions
• Career Resources
• Meet our customers
• Career resources
• English (UK)
• French (FR)
• German (DE)
• Spanish (ES)
• Swedish (SE)

© 2024 . All rights reserved.

Made with love by people who care.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this Web application"

Language selection

• Français fr

Name of Web application

Resume builder build a professional resume.

Build a resume in just a few minutes and make a lasting impression with the Resume Builder – a feature of the Standard and Plus accounts on Job Bank.

Build a professional resume

Showcase your potential.

Easily build a professional-looking resume that showcases your goals and qualifications. Just pick a template and fill in the blanks. No formatting is needed!

Cut down on writing

Spend less time writing and make sure you use the same words as employers. You can simply select skills and job duties from our thousands of pre-defined options.

Store your resume online

Build multiple resumes for different types of jobs and save them all in your account until the right opportunity comes up. You can download and print them at any time.

How to use the Resume Builder

Step 1 pick a template.

After you create a Standard or Plus account on Job Bank, just login to access the Resume Builder. To build your first resume, pick from one of the two templates currently available. You should choose the resume template that best reflects your current situation.

• you have several years of experience in your field;
• you’re looking for a job in your field;
• your career progression has been stable and your work history is fairly consistent (no major gaps).

Use the youth and recent graduates’ template if:

• you’re a first-time job seeker starting your professional career;
• you’ve just completed your education and you’re looking for an entry-level job in your field of study;
• you have limited paid work experience.

Step 2 Fill in the blanks

Once you’ve picked a resume template, fill in the blanks with details about your education, experience and skills.

To help fill in some sections of your resume, you can search thousands of pre-defined options and select the ones that suit you. For example, you can import job duties for any job title. When you look up a job title, you can select all or any of the associated job duties and add them to your resume in one click.

If you have a Plus account on Job Bank, you can simply import all of your profile details into the Resume Builder to automatically fill the blanks.

Step 3 Customize your resume

Make sure to put a personal spin on your resume: with the ability to add free text descriptions and create new sections, you can easily customize its content to suit your needs.

Not sure where to start? Expert tips on customizing each section of your resume are provided as you fill them in. For more advice, read our do’s and don’ts of writing a good resume .

Build a resume that will land you a job interview.

It looks like you are visiting Job Bank from outside Canada.

If you are not legally authorized to work in Canada, you can’t apply for every job on Job Bank . Most Canadian employers will not hire you if you do not have a valid visa or work permit.

Visit Job Bank’s page for foreign candidates to review your options and find jobs from employers who are recruiting outside Canada.

• Meet our partners
• Advertise with us

How to write a Canadian resume

This is not another article telling you to spell-check your resume—but do spell-check your resume. We're going to cover the not-so-obvious tips for getting your foot in the door to your Canadian dream job.

The resume is only one step to finding a job in Canada—and it is not even the first. Before you sit down to type up your professional background, do some research on Canada's job market, and identify the companies that you would like to apply for. The Canadian government website offers some tools that can help you in your job search.

For this article, we are going to focus on optimizing your resume for Canadian employers. Keep in mind, employers will have their own preferences, and there are different best practices for every industry. We hope to give you a general idea of what you can include on a Canadian resume and what is best left out.

Discover if You’re Eligible for Canadian Immigration

5 don'ts of Canadian resume writing

Don't include a photo

Unlike some countries, in Canada it is not necessary to include a photo with your CV — unless you're an actor or a model. In general, the only information you need on your CV is what is relevant to the job posting.

Don't overshare

You do not need to include most personal information on your CV. At this point, the only personal information the employer needs is your name, and how to contact you. They do not need to know your age, what country you are from, your race, your religion, your marital status, or anything about your family. In fact, if asked these questions in an interview it might be illegal under Canada's human rights laws .

Also, your CV is not the place to disclose your Social Insurance Number (SIN). Employers do not need that until you are already hired for the job. Your SIN card is a sensitive document, and you should only share it when it is legally required .

Again, all you need to include in your CV is your relevant skills, experience, and basic contact information like name, phone number, and email. Mailing address is not always necessary, especially if you are searching for a job in a different city. If you want to demonstrate that you are within a commutable distance from the place of employment, then you may want to include it, but most job seekers find it just takes up precious space on the page.

Don't write too much

In terms of length, one page is ideal but having two is fine.

You want the person reviewing your application to see only your best, most relevant, and recent experience. If you are just starting your career and you do not have a lot of experience, you can include items that may be less relevant to the posting.

In general, just keep your resume short and sweet. You want it to be "skimmable." Recruiters should be able to get an idea of your experience without feeling like they have to read a novel.

Don't include references

If your employer wants references they will ask for them. A good practice is to ensure your reference knows that you are naming them and giving out their contact information. Talking to your reference beforehand also helps you determine if this person really is going to give you a glowing review or not.

Don't use an inappropriate email address

Recruiters do pay attention to these details, and they might judge you based on whatever email address you thought was funny in high school. Using an email address that contains your name does not signal any red flags.

5 dos of Canadian resume writing

Do tailor your application to the job posting

It takes longer, but you will often get better results if you tailor each resume to the position you are looking for rather than the "spray and pray" method where you send out a bunch of generic resumes.

Not sure what order you should present your experience? Which skills to include and which to leave out? Are you between word choices?

Look at the job posting. This is your first clue into exactly what the recruiter is looking for, and the language they want to see in your application.

The posting will list the job qualifications and then the nice-to-haves. Include your necessary skills front and centre on the first page of your resume, then put your "assets" after that.

Do quantify your achievements

Try to quantify your achievements with numbers, if you can. For example, if you were a manager, mention how many people you were responsible for overseeing. If you worked in sales, how many products did you sell? How much profit did you ring in every month?

Listing your specific achievements, in numbers that an employer can understand, will highlight your skills better than a generic statement. Saying you have a "good work ethic" means nothing. Demonstrating that you grew traffic to your company's website by 20% over one year, for example, shows a recruiter that you know what you are doing.

Do write in third person

Write in third-person format, so no "I," "me," or "my." Keep your sentences short and clear.

For your work experience, include the name and location of your company, and list a few of your responsibilities. Include the years you worked at the company, or if you worked for less than a year you can include the number of months. There is no need to explain gaps in employment on the resume. It will come up in the interview if the recruiter even asks.

For your education, list the school, program, credential, and dates. Depending on the position you are applying for, you can include your GPA as well, but it is usually not necessary. You can include your awards here, or in a separate "awards" section.

Do include unpaid work experience

You can include things like your volunteer experience, as long as it prepared you for the duties you will be performing at the job you are applying for.

Do include a cover letter

Even if they do not ask for it, even if they are going to skip it and head straight to your resume, it is always good to include a cover letter.

A cover letter is meant to embellish the resume, and show the recruiter why you are the best fit for their job opening.

We could write a separate article about cover letters— and we probably will. But here we will give you a general idea of how to write a cover letter.

Your cover letter should contain the company's contact information, as well as your contact information. It should be no more than a couple of paragraphs, and it should not take up a whole page.

You can write in the first person here. Your goal is to connect with the recruiter. Use their name only if you are 100% sure you have the correct name of the person who will be reviewing your application. If you do know their name, use it, but note that there is usually no need to include a prefix. These days, starting a letter with "Sir" or "Madame" is usually inappropriate, unless you know for certain that the recruiter reading your letter prefers that.

The first paragraph should introduce who you are and why you want this job. Be sure to name the position you are applying for. In the subsequent paragraphs, you will want to demonstrate why you are the best candidate for the position, referring to your previous relevant experience. You can go above and beyond by showing them how your involvement will solve their problems, and make them a better company.

Conclude by thanking them, and letting them know that you will be following up.

Bonus tips for your Canadian job hunt

You are dealing with more barriers than the average Canadian-born job-searcher, however, there are immigrant support services, and employment services that can help you in your journey. Immigration Canada has a list of free services on their website , but these are by no means an exhaustive list of everything that's out there. You can also check your provincial, or territorial websites, or search for employment services in your city.

As much as possible, try to ask people you know if they have any connections or know of any job openings. LinkedIn estimates at least 85% of jobs are found through networking. If you are in Canada and you do not know a lot of people, try industry networking events in your area, which can be found online through events websites, like Eventbrite , or on social media, like Facebook events or groups.

Also, if you think you are underqualified for a position that interests you, apply anyway. In the best-case scenario, you get the job and learn to become the candidate that they are looking for, or else you just do not get the job. You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain.

© CIC News All Rights Reserved. Visit CanadaVisa.com to discover your Canadian immigration options.

• Canada employment
• Canada immigration
• Canada jobs
• Canadian immigration
• foreign workers
• post-graduate work permit
• post-graduation work permit
• work in Canada
• Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
• Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at [email protected]

• Sponsor Content

• Express Entry
• Family Sponsorship
• Citizenship
• Life in Canada

Resume Guide

An effective resume (cv) is essentially a marketing document wherein you are the product..

Studies show that employers spend no more than 20 seconds glancing over each resume they receive. Your resume should present a well-organized profile of your qualifications, work experience, education, achievements and overall career objectives. What's more, it's vital that the information you present be visually appealing, consistently formatted, and free of errors.

Your resume may need to be altered for Canadian employers. You can create your own custom Canadian resume with the free CanadaVisa Resume Builder .

Canadian employers typically expect to see the following information in a resume:

1. Contact Information

Be sure to include your name, current home address, telephone numbers including area codes, and your personal email address.

2. Professional/Career Objective

Your professional/career objective is basically your resume's opening statement. It defines the field or position for which you are applying. It is important that your career objective be clear, concise and customized to the job that you are applying for.

3. Education

This section of your resume should include details of your academic background, beginning with your most recent degree, diploma or certificate. The standard format lists the college or university, followed by the degree/diploma/certificate, major, and graduation date.

4. Experience

Your career/job experience is what most employers pay particular attention to. Recent graduates with no work experience should include any part-time employment, as well as summer jobs, volunteer work and internships. This section should list company names, locations and employers for whom you have worked, presented in a logical and consistent manner.

It is also advisable that you include a bulleted "job responsibilities list" that outlines your particular job functions and achievements for every job you specify. Remember to include the names and locations of organizations for which you have worked, your position/title, and dates.

5. Qualifications or Skills

It is advisable to include a section that briefly states any skills and qualifications that relate to your professional objective in a bullet list format. Examples include:

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office and all associated applications.

6. Honours and Activities

Some resumes also contain a section that summarizes any honours and/or activities that demonstrate strong academic abilities, such as honorary societies, scholarships, and/or extra-curricular activities.

Employers pay attention to how a candidate's personality and personal tastes/lifestyle fits in with the company's corporate culture and vision. Any material you include that casts you as a balanced, well-rounded individual may endear you to a potential employer.

7. References

You may choose to include your references or simply state, "References are available upon request" or something to that effect at the bottom of your resume. If you choose to include references, be sure that the people you list can still be contacted at the telephone numbers you give. Moreover, if you feel that a potential employer may call your references, be sure to advise the people you have listed that they may receive a call from a potential employer.

Resume Writing Tips:

• Spell check your document. Make sure that punctuation, grammar, and spelling are free of errors.
• Include a customized cover letter with your resume. A cover letter is your chance to express why you believe you're the best person for the job. You may also use this format to effectively communicate your "professional disposition". Remember to address your cover letter to the employer/manager and include the company name.
• Include "action words". Action words are terms that describe your job functions such as Achieved, acquired, addressed, analyzed, centralized, coordinated, created, demonstrated, designed, eliminated, enforced, implemented, improved, maintained, managed, organized, oversaw, performed, reorganized, reviewed, selected, supervised, surveyed, trained.
• Include relevant skills, such as being able to speak a second language or mastery of particular computer applications.
• Avoid using paragraphs or long sentences. The bullet style — use of an action word followed by an account of the action you performed — enables you to include a lot of information about your work-related duties, responsibilities, and achievements in as condensed a form as possible.
• Convert all terms to the North American equivalent. For example, use terms like "high school", "GPA" (Grade Point Average — the equivalent for university grades), "internship", etc.
• Present results and achievements of previous work projects in quantitative terms. For example: Worked with a small team on an overhaul of the existing website and implementation of a digital marketing strategy, resulting in an increase in web traffic of 92 percent over 12 months.
• Left-justify (left-align) the entire document.
• Use a standard font, size 10-14 only.
• Avoid boldface, underlined or italicized print.
• Avoid parentheses (brackets), graphics, shading, tabs, and hard returns.

Create your own custom Canadian resume with the free CanadaVisa Resume Builder .

Latest news, canada's express entry draw results from june 19, 2024.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted another Express Entry draw today. Here are the results from the department's latest Express Entry draw on June 19, 2024.

IRCC conducts its first Express Entry draw for CEC candidates since 2021

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued its first round of Express Entry invitations for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates since September 14, 2021. Read on for the results of IRCC's May 31 Express Entry draw.

• Immigrate to Canada
• Express Entry
• Provincial Nominee Programs
• Quebec Immigration
• Other Federal Economic Programs
• National Occupational Classification
• Language Test Requirements
• Education Credential Assessment
• Immigration Levels Plan
• About the Immigration Department
• About the Immigration Minister
• Working in Canada
• TFWP & IMP
• Work Permit Process
• Work without a Work Permit
• Get Maintained Status
• Business Visitors
• Options for H-1B Visa Holders
• Tech Talent Options
• LMIA-Exempt Work Permits (IMP)
• LMIA-Based Work Permits (TFWP)
• Employer Compliance
• Family Class Sponsorship
• Spouse or Common-Law Partner
• Child or Other Dependent
• Parents and Grandparents
• Requirements for Each Program
• Study in Canada
• Get a Study Permit
• Study Pathways to PR
• Bringing your Family to Canada
• Working While Studying
• Post-Graduation Work Permits
• About Canadian Citizenship
• Benefits of Canadian Passport
• Apply for Proof of Citizenship
• Dual Citizenship
• Citizenship Ceremony
• Overcome Inadmissibility
• Temporary Resident Permit
• Criminal Rehabilitation
• Inadmissible Legal Opinion Letter
• Visiting with a Criminal Record
• Common Offences
• Charges Within Canada
• Authorization to Return to Canada
• Refusals and Appeals
• Canada Security Clearances
• Overcome Medical Inadmissibility
• Inadmissibility to Canada FAQs
• Canada Border Services Agency
• About Cohen Immigration Law
• How to Avoid Fraud
• Workers' Rights in Canada
• Temporary Resident Visas
• Tools and Resources
• Business Immigration Overview
• Entrepreneurs
• Self-Employed
• Getting Settled in Canada
• Opening a Bank Account
• How to Find Work
• Renting a Home
• Buying a Home
• Free Settlement Services
• Public Transportation
• Buying a Car
• Food and Grocery Options
• Buying Furniture
• How to Dress for the Weather
• TV and Home Entertainment
• Get to Know Canada

• Resume and Cover Letter
• Social Media
• Know Your Rights as a Job Applicant
• Industry Job Boards
• Why You Should Come Work in B.C.
• Get Started on Your Career in B.C.
• WorkBC Job Board Advantage

WorkBC is committed to helping all British Columbians find employment. Search the job board and explore resources to help you in your job search.

• Career Profiles: Search by A-Z
• Career Search Tool
• Career Transition Tool
• Career Discovery Quizzes
• Video Library
• Cost of Living Calculator
• Types of Employment in B.C.
• Self-Employment
• Definitions
• Indigenous Peoples
• People with Disabilities
• Teachers and Career Counsellors
• Mature Workers
• People New to B.C.
• Veterans and Serving Military Members
• Find Your Fit Tour
• Calendar of Upcoming Events
• Career and Education Fairs
• Competencies
• Characteristics
• Success Stories

Access valuable tools and resources that will help you plan for the future.

• Employment Services
• Who Should Visit a WorkBC Centre
• Online Employment Services
• WorkBC Centre Locations
• Self-Serve Services
• Renseignements sur les services à l’emploi
• Assistive Technology Services
• Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program Listings
• In the Spotlight
• Job Creation Partnerships
• Labour Market Partnerships
• Project-Based Labour Market Training
• Research and Innovation
• Wage Subsidy Program
• Access Online WorkBC Apprentice Services
• Assess Your Eligibility
• How To Apply
• Training Supports

WorkBC Centres support you in finding a job and keeping it. Services are available to all unemployed or precariously employed B.C. citizens legally eligible to work in B.C.

• Skills Training for Employment Program
• BladeRunners Program for At-Risk Young Adults
• Trades Training Programs
• About Apprenticeship
• Pre-Apprenticeship Programs
• Post-Secondary Education
• Co-operative Education
• Find Your Path

Most jobs in B.C. require some form of education or training. Get qualified through a variety of post-secondary options – from apprenticeships to university programs.

• Labour Market Monthly Update
• Green Economy
• Guide to Using Labour Market Information
• Workforce Development Agreement and Annual Reports
• About the Report
• Labour Market Outlook 2023 to 2033
• High Opportunity Occupations
• Top Demand Trades
• British Columbia
• North Coast and Nechako
• Vancouver Island/Coast
• Mainland/Southwest
• Thompson-Okanagan
• Industry Profiles

Discover what drives B.C.'s economy, explore industries and learn about the province’s regions, population and 10-year employment outlook.

• Find Workers
• Create an Inclusive Workplace
• Apprentices, Reservists, Co-op Students and Temporary Foreign Workers
• Skills Training
• Support Your Workforce
• Workplace Rights
• Planning Resources
• Support Services
• Growing your Business

Learn how to grow your business and discover resources to help you hire, train, support and keep employees.

• B.C. Employer Training Grant
• Sector Labour Market Partnerships Program
• Finance Your Business
• Incentives and Tax Credits
• Community Workforce Response Grant
• StrongerBC future skills grant
• Scholarships, Bursaries and Loans
• Student Budgeting
• Indigenous Skills and Employment Training funding
• Services for Apprentices and Employers
• Forest Sector Supports

Access funding to support students, workers, employers, communities and industries.

Write your resume

A well-written resume will help to sell your skills and abilities, giving you the best chance of getting the job you want. It should be clear and well organized. Consider the following tips when putting together your resume.

Personal information — your name, address, phone number and email address.

Include only one phone number and email address to make it simple for an employer to reach you. Don’t include overly personal information, such as your birthdate or marital status.

Work and volunteer experience — previous job titles, tasks and key accomplishments.

Be specific when describing your previous roles and responsibilities. Use the action words guide to identify verbs that best reflect your experience.

Related skills — job-specific skills, certifications, computer skills and trades credentials.

Include skills that might be useful to the position, such as first aid certification or languages you speak. Look at the job posting and use the same keywords or skills listed to describe your own. Streamline your resume by removing skills or certificates that are not relevant to the job you are applying for.

Relevant education — post-secondary credit, and non-credit programs and courses.

Lead with the information that is most relevant to the job you’re applying for—even if that means putting your work experience or a specific training certificate at the top. Not all resumes need to be in chronological order, so a strength-based resume may do a better job of highlighting your important skills.

Awards and achievements — work-related, academic and community awards.

Include those relevant to the job you’re seeking.

Memberships — professional, business-related, school or community groups.

This is a great way to show a potential employer that you are an involved member of your community—which shows that you will make an engaging co-worker and contribute to a positive work culture. Likewise, if you lack work experience, your involvement in local groups or professional organizations can help supplement your resume.

References — former supervisors or colleagues who will confirm your skills and speak positively about the quality of your work.

Unless the employer requests your references upfront, you do not need to include them in your resume. When you do provide them, remember to contact your references for their permission beforehand.

Additional tips and resources

• Although the resume length for a job can vary depending on the field, resumes usually are between one and two pages.
• Maximize space by only including the information relevant to the job posting. Take the time to customize your resume to fit the job; you are more likely to get an interview.
• Use a resume template to get started. Most document editing software have ready-to-use templates. If you are applying for a traditional company job, consider using a simple template; if you are applying for a creative position, consider using a non-traditional template (or even a website or online portfolio) to showcase your work.
• The Government of Canada provides a resume building tool to help guide you through the process.
• Check the job posting to ensure you are including all the requested information. Some employers use an online application tool to screen potential employees instead of using a traditional resume.
• It’s okay to reach out to a potential employer before applying! If you still have questions about the position after reading the job posting, it’s better to connect with the employer before you apply—you save yourself and the potential employer valuable time.

A strong resume is key to a successful job search. Watch the video below:

Create your cover letter

A cover letter is an opportunity to expand on your resume and explain why you are the right fit for the job. However, not all jobs require a cover letter to apply — so always check the job posting before you send one to ensure the employer requested it. When in doubt, include one! Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get started.

Address your letter to the hiring manager or program leader

Instead of just saying, “To whom it may concern,” look at the job posting or the company’s website to find the hiring manager’s name to include in your letter.

Use an outline

Treat your cover letter like a short essay. Here’s a basic outline for a simple three-paragraph letter:

• Introduce yourself and why you are interested in the position.
• Include a brief paragraph explaining how you meet the specific experience and/or education requirements.
• Finish with a conclusion describing how your unique combination of education, experience and skills make you the best person for the position.

Watch the length

You want your letter to be direct and concise. Aim to have your cover letter no more than one page.

Share concrete examples

Avoid repeating your resume, rather use it to highlight a few key experiences that relate to the job you are applying for. Show your future employer why you are the right fit.

Include keywords

Highlight how you meet the competencies detailed in the posting, using keywords or skills listed in the job posting. Read Skills for the Future Workforce to learn more about the type of skills employers are looking for.

Use active voice and avoid wordiness

Use active language and avoid wordiness—it will improve your writing and save space for the important details. Example of active versus passive language:

• Active voice: “I led a team of 20 employees at X company.”
• Passive voice: “I had once managed 20 employees as the leader of a team for X company.”

Additional resources

• The University of British Columbia provides advice and examples of resumes and cover letters for students entering the workforce for the first time.
• Want to learn more about what makes a winning resume? Take a look at the LinkedIn Cover Letter Feed .

A strong cover letter is key to a successful job search. Watch the video: Building a Resume and Cover Letter .

Browse Related Topics

• Find a WorkBC Centre
• Learn About WorkBC.ca

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Forgot Password?

You can reset your password here.

Email was Sent

Please check Your email

Come to Canada

Get a free e-book to get you started on your journey!

We take the security of your personal information very seriously. All data and information disclosed on this site are highly confidential. Once you personal data is stored, we employ highly secure servers that restrict access to potential third parties.

Sign Up To Our Newsletter Today & Get a Free e-Book

Canadianvisa.org

We Make Immigration Simple

2022-01-09T09:02:57

2023-05-02T09:02:00

Find out the tools and resources for writing a killer resume, to secure yourself a perfect job when you migrate to Canada.

Explore More

Why Use an RCIC?

British Columbia

New Brunswick

Newfoundland and Labrador

Northwest Territories

Nova Scotia

Prince Edward Island

Saskatchewan

Mississauga

Charlottetown

Fredericton

Quebec City

Canada Immigration

Express Entry

Comprehensive Ranking System

Express Entry Draw

Invitation to Apply

Express Entry Profile

Immigrate From Your Country

Immigrate from India

Immigrate from the UK

Immigrate from Australia

Immigrate from the Philippines

Immigrate from Mexico

Immigrate from Kenya

Immigrate from Ghana

Immigrate from Nigeria

Immigrate from the UAE

Immigrate from Saudi Arabia

Immigrate from Jamaica

Immigrate from Pakistan

CRS Calculator

Professional and Skilled Worker

Quebec Skilled Worker Program

Federal Skilled Worker Program

Federal Skilled Trades Program

Canadian Experience Class

Provincial Nominee Program

In-demand Occupations

Manitoba In-Demand Jobs in 2023

New Brunswick in-Demand Jobs in Canada in 2023

Newfoundland & Labrador In-Demand Occupations in 2023

Northwest Territories In-Demand Jobs in 2023

Nova Scotia In-demand Jobs in Canada 2023

Prince Edward Island In-Demand Occupations 2023

Quebec In-demand Jobs in 2023

Saskatchewan In-demand Jobs in Canada 2023

Yukon In-Demand Jobs in 2023

Alberta In-Demand Occupations for 2023

Ontario In-Demand Occupations in 2023

British Columbia In-Demand Occupations for 2023

Family Sponsorship

Spousal and Common-Law Partner Sponsorship

Spousal and Family Sponsorship

Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship

Business Immigration

Self-Employed Program

Investor Visa

Entrepreneur Visa

Business Visitor Visa

Study In Canada

University List

Work in Canada as a Student

Post-Graduate Work Permit

Study Permit Visa Partners

Canada Education System

Pilot Programs

The Atlantic Immigration Pilot

The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot

The Agri-food Pilot

The Home Care Provider Pilots

Visitor's Visa

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Temporary Visa

Caregiver Visa

Working Holiday Visa

Permanent Residency

Denied Entry to Canada

• Life in Canada

Industry Specific Job Listing Websites

General Job Listing Websites

Youth Job Listing Websites

• Resume Writing

Job Applications

Cover Letter

Interview Questions

Salary Negotiation

Facts About Working in Canada

How to Perform Well at Work

Worker Rights

Health and Safety

Canadian Employers

Professional Immigrant Networks

Basic Information

Canada Economic Structure

Key Industries

Service Industry

Manufacturing

Natural Resources

Mining Sector

Festivals and Cultural Attractions

Places of Worship

Religious Rights

Multiculturalism

Associations

Health Care

Ontario Health Insurance Plan

British Columbia Health Plan

Alberta Health Plan

Extended Health Plan Coverage

Personal Insurance

Car Insurance

Employment Insurance

Health Insurance

Waiting Period

Travel Insurance

Disability insurance

Life Insurance

Median Household Income

Cost Of Living

Provinces and Territories by Gross Domestic Product

Relations with the U.S.

Foreign Marriage

Apply for Birth Certificate

Drivers Licence

Shopping Basics

Taxation System

Canadian Media

Outdoor Activities

Plan Your Move

Your First Week in Canada

Find a Job in Canada

Social Insurance Number (SIN)

Parental Guide to Moving to Canada

Find Accommodation in Canada

International Shipping to Canada

Newcomer's Budget Guide

Choosing a Mobile/Internet Plan in Canada

Flights to Canada

Newcomer's Resource Guide

Car Rental & Driver's Licence

Things to Do in Your Area

Things You Can't Bring to Canada

Moving Your Pets to Canada

Essential Packing list

Travel to Canada and COVID Updates

Our Contributors

Why Use CanadianVisa.org

Testimonials

IELTS Course

Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB)

Updated: May 2nd, 2023

Getting a job in Canada begins with creating an impressive resume that catches the attention of recruiters and employers. A resume is crucial in showcasing your skills, experience, and qualifications to prospective employers. However, crafting a resume for the Canadian job market can differ from what you are used to in your home country.

Resume writing in Canada is a unique process that requires understanding the local job market, cultural norms, and specific formatting guidelines. By mastering the art of creating a Canadian-style resume, you can significantly increase your chances of getting a job in Canada. So let's dive into the world of resume writing and explore the various elements that make up a winning resume in Canada.

Why You Should Get Your Resume to Canadian Standards

When all is said and done, your Resume should look something like this:

Dress Professionally

To make a good first impression, dress professionally, such as a suit and tie.

Arrive Early

Plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes before your scheduled interview to allow for any unexpected delays.

Bring Copies of Your Resume and References

Bring copies and a list of professional references if the interviewer requests.

Be Prepared to Discuss Your Qualifications and Experience

During the interview, be ready to discuss your qualifications and experience in detail and provide specific examples of how you have applied your skills in previous roles.

Ask Questions

At the end of the interview, ask thoughtful questions about the company, role, and work environment to demonstrate your interest and engagement.

Remember to be courteous, professional, and confident during the interview, and always follow up with a thank-you note or email to the interviewer afterward. Learn more about how to prepare for your job interview in Canada here.

How Do I Know If My Job Offer Is Real or Not?

Unfortunately, job scams and fraudulent job offers are prevalent in Canada, especially for newcomers and international job seekers. Being vigilant and aware of the red flags of a fake job offer is essential. Here are some signs that a job offer may be fake:

• The employer asks for sensitive personal information, such as your Social Insurance Number, passport details, or bank account information, before you have been officially hired.
• The employer offers a job without conducting an interview or verifying your qualifications.
• The job offer includes a request for payment or investment on your part, such as training fees, equipment costs, or travel expenses.
• The employer insists on communicating only via email or refuses to provide a physical address or phone number.

Do not respond or provide personal information if you receive a suspicious job offer. Instead, research the company and the job offer online, and contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or local law enforcement if you suspect fraud. 

Take Your First Step in Getting a Job in Canada

Canadian Resume Format for Foreigners [Complete Guide]

Executive Resume Writer & Career Expert

April 21, 2022 ❘

🕐 6 min read

Canada is one of the top foreign countries where you can do a job as a foreigner. The main reason for this is that Canada is considered as the best country to raise a family as well as a Wonderful Place to Work.

Canada is arguably the best country to work in because of its geographical proximity, cultural values, and generous mandatory holidays and other benefits such as higher salary scale etc. But how do you begin applying for jobs in Canada? How should a Canadian resume be written, and how does it differ from an American resume format?

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about the Canadian resume format.

Want to create your Canadian resume right away without wasting time? Then visit our Free Resume Builder right now.

Canadian resume sample

You must have a Canadian-style resume if you want to get noticed by Canadian recruiters. You can increase your job opportunities in Canada by studying the Canadian resume sample below and adjusting your resume in accordance with the resume tips below.

Why do you need a good Canadian resume?

Finding a job in Canada might be one of your dreams since your childhood. The first step in your Canadian job search is to prepare a resume and cover letter to send to potential employers. Resume formats from other countries will not necessarily work for the Canadian job market.

Therefore, if you have a good Canadian resume, you will be able to enjoy the following benefits.

• Can easily pass the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which are used by many Canadian employers.
• Demonstrate your knowledge of the Canadian job market.
• Highlight your professional accomplishments and strengths that Canadian employers prefer.
• Make yourself stand out as a top candidate for a Canadian job.

Resume formats to use in Canada

If you are applying for a job in Canada, your resume must be in one of the three formats listed below. These are the only resume formats accepted in Canada.

• The traditional reverse chronological resume format (Preferred)
• Functional resume format
• Hybrid resume format

The format of your resume will differ depending on the job you are applying for and your level of work experience. However, the reverse chronological resume format is preferred by the majority of Canadian employers.

When to use reverse-chronological resume format in Canada?

When you have experience in multiple organizations or positions, you can use the reverse chronological resume format. Also, this is the best format for most people with work experience in the same field as the position they’re applying for. Recruiters can more easily identify your career progression if you list your experience in reverse chronological order. If you are inexperienced or an entry-level candidate, this is not the ideal resume format for you.

When to use Canadian functional resume format?

This type of resume focuses more on the skills and qualifications of the applicant. This means that the functional resume format focuses on convincing the recruiter of your skills and qualifications rather than your work experience. This is typically used when you have no relevant experience, when you have career gaps, or when you are switching your career. However, this resume format is now considered outdated.

When to use hybrid resume format in Canada?

This is the hybrid version of the chronological and functional resume models. As a result, this is also referred to as the combination resume format. Here, the applicant should focus more on both soft and hard skills. Therefore, these resumes are generally more appropriate for career switchers, recent graduates with limited experience, multiple short-term work contractors, or those who have significant career gaps.

Common resume format for Canada job market

In Canada, the resume format must include the following sections in order:

• Resume header (with your contact information)
• Professional summary
• Relevant work experience
• Education qualifications
• Skills (technical skills and soft skills)

You may also include your volunteer experience, licenses and certifications , hobbies and interests, where applicable.

Basic information that a Canadian employer looks at on your resume

If you understand what Canadian employers want to see in your resume, you can maximize the probability of getting your dream job. You can stand out from the rest of the candidates by tailoring your Canadian style resume to suit those desires. Here are the things you need to highlight most on your Canada resume:

01. Contact information

One of the mistakes that many people make when listing contact information is to list unwanted information such as date of birth, gender, marital status, religion or parents’ names. It is not required under Canadian employment law and you may also lose your job opportunity by including them in a Canadian resume.

When you apply for a job in Canada, be sure to include a Canadian address and a Canadian mobile number in the contact information. But if you are a foreigner, it is sufficient to indicate your location as the city and the state along with a telephone number where you can be contacted.

Make sure you’ve included a professional email address as well as a link to your LinkedIn profile. This guide will teach you how to successfully insert a LinkedIn profile into your resume .

02. A professional summary

The resume summary is the elevator pitch of your resume. This is an impressive short paragraph that highlights how you fit into the job you are applying for.

Mention the number of years of relevant experience you have, the type of experience you have, and your future goals.

You can get more results by mentioning the most relevant qualifications and certifications you have as well as some of the best soft and hard skills you have.

Try to mention some of the key achievements that are specific to you, which anyone can not write on their resume.

03. Related work experience in Canada

If you’ve worked in Canada before, it’s definitely a plus point for you. If you don’t have any work experience in Canada, try to emphasize any international teamwork experience you have. Alternatively, you can include projects you’ve completed in other countries. Particularly if you’ve previously worked with Canadian teams.

One thing to keep in mind is not to mention the job duties and responsibilities you have under your job title. Because your potential employers from Canada may know them better than you. So if there are any achievements from your previous roles that can impress them, explain them briefly.

04. Education

Include any degrees you have earned, as well as the dates and name of the institution where you studied.

Give your expected graduation date if you haven’t graduated yet. If you have one, include your Grade Point Average (GPA) if and only if it is above 3.0.

05. Your skillset

You already know that resume skills can be divided into hard skills as well as soft skills. The speciality In Canada resume format is that it emphasizes hard skills (often called technical skills). So you need to focus more on listing your technical skills that are required to perform the job.

On the other hand, soft skills or people skills are also important pieces of details that Canadian employers are looking for in your resume. These soft skills may include communication, problem-solving, teamwork, flexibility, ability to learn quickly, work under minimum supervision etc.

06. English language proficiency

English is the most widely used language in Canada except in Quebec and Nunavut. As a result, recruiters are looking for candidates who are fluent in the English language.

To work in Canada, the majority of employers require that you pass the IELTS exam. A score of 7.0 or higher is generally considered to be satisfactory.

If you have a good score like above, mention the IELTS scorecard on your resume. It can add value to your resume by demonstrating that you have a good command of the English language.

07. Professional qualification

Are you qualified enough by the right institution to perform the job you’re applying for? Then mention it on your resume. Canadian employers also appreciate your relevant qualifications, like most other employers around the world. So try to list any relevant professional credentials you have, along with the dates you received them.

General rules of Canadian resume format

• It’s critical to ensure that your resume is written in perfect English with correct grammar.
• Canada is a country that does not accept photos on resumes. So avoid using your photograph on the resume . It could discriminate against you for different reasons.
• Do not include personal information, such as your date of birth, gender, marital status, religion, cultural background etc (other than your name and contact details).
• Use a clean and professional resume template that is not difficult on the recruiters’ eye.
• Use keywords to tailor your resume. Focus on the words used by the employer in the job posting to describe specific skills, technical abilities, characteristics, or knowledge and try to insert them into your professional summary, work experience, and skills sections.
• When listing your accomplishments under the work experience section, try to use small sentences starting with strong resume action verbs .
• Do not list references. If you do so, it will waste your valuable resume space. If you need to let them know that you have references, just insert the line “references available upon request.”
• Keep your resume to a single page unless you have more than 10 years of related work experience.
• Proofread your resume and check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors several times. Because it reflects your communication skills.
• Write an impressive cover letter even the company has not requested for it. This can multiply your job winning rate in Canada.

So these are our tips for writing a great Canadian resume format to land a job in Canada. Also remember to read this guide on how to respond to the most common interview questions in Canada . Good luck on your Canadian job search!

WANT ACCESS TO ALL ARTICLES? DOWNLOAD THRIVVE ISSUES NOW FOR FREE!

• Jun 13, 2023

How to Write a Resume in Canada

Updated: Aug 17, 2023

Here’s your definitive guide to building a killer resume!

Most international students agree that getting a job in Canada is single-handedly the one thing that is the hardest to do! That’s why we wanted to do an article that could take you through the key components of a Canadian-style resume and provide some tips to help you make your resume stand out.

First, let's talk about the structure of a Canadian-style resume. Unlike resumes in some other countries, Canadian resumes are typically one to two pages in length (depending on how much experience you have) and follow a reverse chronological order format. This means that you list your most recent work or educational experiences first and work your way backward.

Here are some key components that should be included in a Canadian-style resume:

- personal information.

This should include your name, address, phone number, and email address. It's also a good idea to include your LinkedIn profile if you have one.

- Objective or Summary

This is a brief statement that summarizes your career goals and highlights your relevant skills and experience. Make sure to tailor this to the specific job you are applying for.

- Education

List your educational qualifications in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent degree or diploma. Include the name of the institution, the degree or diploma earned, the date of graduation, and any relevant academic honours or awards.

- Work Experience

List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. Include the name of the company, your job title, the dates of employment, and a brief description of your responsibilities and accomplishments.

List any relevant skills you have that are relevant to the job you are applying for. This could include technical skills, language skills, or soft skills like communication or leadership.

Now that you know the key components of a Canadian-style resume, here are some tips to help you make your resume stand out:

- tailor your resume to the job you are applying for.

Make sure to read the job description carefully and tailor your resume to highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position.

- Use action verbs

Start each bullet point in your work experience section with an action verb to highlight your accomplishments and make your resume more engaging.

- Quantify your accomplishments

Whenever possible, include numbers or percentages to quantify your accomplishments. This helps employers get a better sense of the impact you've had in your previous roles. (Super important to do this!)

Keep it concise : While it's important to highlight your relevant skills and experience, make sure to keep your resume concise and to the point. Use bullet points and short sentences to make it easy to skim.

- Use a professional format

Make sure your resume looks clean and professional. Use a standard font, such as Arial or Times New Roman, and keep the formatting consistent throughout the document.

Last but not least… some GOLDEN RULES that you need to remember. 2 Resume Golden Rules:

Most people, HR or hiring managers, look at a resume for no more than 3 to 6 seconds before deciding if they want to keep reading it or not. It is YOUR JOB to make your resume attractive enough for people to want to keep reading. How do we do that? That’s why we have the 2nd golden rule

Make sure to include how much experience you have and what you do. You do this by:

a. Having the number of years of experience in your summary, for example:

"I'm a young professional with over 3 years of experience, most of it in the airline industry, with proven skills in responding to each customer's needs while paying attention to every customer and delivering seamless operations. Currently studying for a digital marketing diploma and looking for a full-time position "

b. Always including 1 or 2 job titles in your resume. And you should customize this depending on the job you are applying for. Example:

Digital Marketer & Copywriter

Customer Service Specialist & Sales Manager

c. If what you wrote down, could be copy pasted into someone else’s resume and it still makes sense. Then it’s no bueno (not good!). Try to avoid generic summaries or work descriptions. Be specific. Example

Do: “Currently working as a Store Manager, I am an experienced customer service representative with 3 years of hands-on experience in resolving complex customer issues, exceeding sales targets, and driving customer satisfaction. Expert in using CRM software, managing customer inquiries, and handling inconveniences”

Don’t : “Experienced and friendly customer service professional with excellent communication skills seeking to utilize my expertise in providing exceptional customer support and problem-solving to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Remember, building a great resume takes time and effort 😉 And it’s always a good idea to ask for feedback from friends and family. They can proofread your resume carefully before submitting it.

Oh! And one more thing. Thrivve has prepared a Resume Template just for you! Just to give you a bit of a head start 😉 Best of luck, the Thrivve team.

Did you enjoy this article and find it useful? Join our THRIVVE community on Slack . Help is just a question away!

Recent Posts

Creating Opportunities: Freelancing in Canada as an International Student 🇨🇦

🌞 Summer and Seasonal Jobs in Canada: A Golden Opportunity for International Students 🍁

5 Ways to Find Volunteer Opportunities in Canada

• Translated Information
• Ask a Question
• Services Near Me
• Immigration & Citizenship
• Legal Services

How do I create a Canadian-style resume in order to find a job?

Your resume will get noticed more by Canadian recruiters if you have a Canadian-style resume. While Canadian-style resumes come in many different formats, they share some standards that you should know about.

Style and Personal Details 

In Canada, you never use a photo on your resume and you also don't include personal details other than your name and contact information. You should never:

• state your age 
• state your ethnicity or cultural background 
• describe your physical attributes 
• state your marital status or if you have children
• state your sexual orientation or preferences

None of these are considered relevant to obtaining a job. Do showcase how your strengths and achievements in past jobs will benefit the role you're applying to. 

Adapt your Resume for Each Role

Career experts recommend that you customize your resume for each job, especially for your most recent work experience. General or generic resumes do not work in today’s labour market. It's advised to follow the requirements of the job posting so that your resume speaks to those specific requirements.  Generic resumes are better used for applications to companies that are not advertising a job opening. If you research a company that you want to work for but they don't have an current opening you can use a more generic version of your resume in this instance. Also, remember to use your cover letter to showcase how your experience matches the job role requirement.

The Job Ad. or Posting

In general, the bullets sections for the requirements are listed in order of importance or according to job requirements. The top 5 bullets on the list are typically the highest requirements of the job with the least demands towards the bottom of the list. Ensure that your resume speaks to the top requirements in particular by focusing on comparing your past experiences and achievements those in the top requirements.  For some jobs, you can change a few bullets or sentences to focus on certain skills and accomplishments. For others, you may need to rewrite a completely new resume. The important thing to keep in mind is that each application that you submit reflects the role you are applying for specifically. Find what jobs are available in your area from our Where can I find job listing websites? page. 

Mind the Length

It's preferred to have a shorter resume over one with many pages. Most people have a resume that is 2 pages long. If you are a junior professional or fresh out of school you might choose a one-page resume. But depending on your seniority level if you have more years of experience it's ok to have up to a 3 page resume if you need it.  Don't sacrifice quality details, achievements and past relevant experiences to make a resume shorter.   

Include Volunteer Work

You should include your volunteer experience if it relates to the job you are applying for in the section on work experience. It is important to talk about what you have done. It does not matter if it was unpaid work.

Use Social Media

Many employers cross-reference your resume with your online presence. You can include a link to your LinkedIn profile or if you have an online portfolio for your work or related blog you may include that as well. 

Employers may also look for you on other social media tools, such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram etc First impressions are important - if you don't want a potential employer to see something, don't make it publicly accessible or put it online at all.

Formatting Hints

Format is critical. Your resume should be organized, neat, clear, and consistent in formatting (e.g., font and bullets).

If you are applying for a job which requires that you have attention to detail, then you need to demonstrate this with your résumé.

Use headings to organize the information in your resume. Common resume headings are:

• Highlights of Qualifications
• Professional Experience

Use formatting tools such as bold and bullets to make important information stand out.

Use Keywords

In today's job market a lot of recruiters use online tools to select resumes. These tools are designed to match keywords from the job ad. to your resume. It's important to use keywords in your resume chosen specifically to match what you see in the job posting and on the company's website. Recruiters sometimes do not read every word on each resume and rely on the keyword matches. Keywords describe skills and qualifications. Enhance your resume by using as many keywords as you can. But, do not make up experiences just to use keywords.

Proof Read it

Look over your résumé before you send it. Make sure the company names, job titles and dates are accurate. Print out your resume to see how it looks when printed if you can or save it as a PDF to review the formatting.  It's good to send a resume through as a PDF so that employers will be able to open the document without difficulty

Sample Resumes

There are 2 common types of resumes:

• Chronological

You can find general samples of these types, below. You can use these samples as guides. Do not rely on samples or templates to create a good resume.

In some fields, employers will expect to see a resume with a specific format, which may be different than these samples.

Chronological Resume

A chronological resume is time-based. It is organized by the positions you have held, in order of time. You list your most recent position first. These resumes are best if you have a lot of experience in your field. They are also better for people who do not have periods of time when they were not working.

This is an example of a Canadian-style chronological resume:

• Chronological Resume Sample [PDF]
• Chronological Resume Sample [.doc]

Functional Resume

A functional resume is skills-based. It is organized by skills that you gained in your previous work. Functional resumes are best if you:

• Are a recent graduate
• Have major time gaps in employment
• Are changing careers

This is an example of a Canadian-style functional résumé:

• Functional Resume Sample [PDF ,
• Functional Resume Sample [.doc]

Many settlement or employment agencies can give you information and advice about your résumé, and how to create resumes for specific fields. To find help, go to Services Near Me  and search for "employment services" in your area.

For More Information

• Monster.ca Resume Centre - Many tips for creating great résumés.
• Resume Writing - Detailed articles and infographics on how to create an effective resume. From UpToWork.Com.

Related Articles

• What do I include in my Canadian resume? What do I exclude?
• What do Canadian Employers want?

• Applying for a Job
• Job Listings
• Job Interviews
• Temporary Work
• Employment Services
• Employment Agencies
• Labour Market Information
• Online Job Search

Discussion Forum

• Closed work permit
• Remote work & work permit
• Professional enquiry
• Online Citizenship Test Preparation Circle

Reference.com

What's Your Question?

• History & Geography
• Science & Technology
• Business & Finance
• Pets & Animals

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for a Job in Canada

Are you considering applying for a job in Canada? With its strong economy and diverse job opportunities, it’s no wonder that many individuals are seeking employment in the Great White North. However, navigating the Canadian job market can be challenging, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the application process. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a job in Canada.

Research the Canadian Job Market

Before diving into the application process, it’s essential to have a good understanding of the Canadian job market. Research industries that align with your skills and interests, identify companies that offer relevant positions, and familiarize yourself with their requirements and expectations.

In addition to online research, consider attending career fairs or networking events focused on connecting employers with potential candidates. This will allow you to gain valuable insights and make personal connections within your desired industry.

Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

Once you’ve identified your target companies or positions, it’s time to tailor your resume and cover letter accordingly. Ensure that your resume highlights relevant skills and experiences that align with the specific job requirements.

When writing your cover letter, personalize it for each application by addressing key points mentioned in the job posting. Emphasize how your qualifications make you an ideal candidate for the role. Be concise yet persuasive in demonstrating why you are interested in working for that particular company.

Prepare Supporting Documents

In addition to your resume and cover letter, there are other supporting documents you may need when applying for a job in Canada. These documents include reference letters from previous employers or colleagues who can vouch for your work ethic and skills.

If applicable, include copies of relevant certifications or qualifications that showcase your expertise in a particular field. It’s also essential to have scanned copies of identification documents such as passports or work permits ready if requested.

Apply Online or through Recruitment Agencies

Most job applications in Canada are done online through company websites or job search platforms. Ensure that you have an updated and professional online presence, such as a LinkedIn profile, where potential employers can learn more about your qualifications and work history.

Consider reaching out to recruitment agencies specializing in your industry. They can help match you with suitable job opportunities and provide guidance throughout the application process.

Applying for a job in Canada requires careful preparation and attention to detail. By researching the Canadian job market, tailoring your resume and cover letter, preparing supporting documents, and utilizing online platforms or recruitment agencies, you’ll increase your chances of securing employment in this vibrant country.

Remember to stay proactive, follow up on submitted applications, and continuously improve your skills through networking events or professional development opportunities. With determination and perseverance, you’ll be on your way to success in the Canadian job market.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

MORE FROM REFERENCE.COM

What to take out of your resume and what to put in

Interested in more work-life content? Check out our weekly Careers newsletter. Sent every Sunday afternoon.

What you leave out of your resume may be as important as what you put in. Executive coach Irina Cozma suggests you steer clear of:

• Including irrelevant work experience: Younger people, for example, may be inclined to include jobs from the past like babysitting or being a cashier at a retail store. Your past work experiences are important and make you who you are, but not all of them need to be on your resume. Focus on what is relevant to the job.
• Wasting time customizing your resume: As long as the jobs you’re applying for fall into the same category, you probably don’t need to rewrite your entire resume for every application.
• Overdesigning your resume: “When I was a recruiter for high-volume jobs, I scanned each resume in a few seconds, looking for the words that matched my job opening. If the resume had an ingenious design, it took me a few extra seconds to situate myself on the page, and most often, I did not have those extra seconds. An unusual layout can also disrupt applications submitted through a tracking system,” she writes in Harvard Business Review .
• Coming off as unprofessional: An odd e-mail address – nickname or strange numbers in it – can raise suspicions. It doesn’t take much effort to get a professional-sounding e-mail address for job searching.

Something else to shed, according to recruiting specialist John Sullivan, is the belief that a resume must be contained to one page. As screening by artificial intelligence becomes widespread, what counts is getting information into the resume that will satisfy the bots, which don’t obsess over pages.

But after the bots comes human beings and you must sparkle for them. Over the years he has asked recruiters to identify the memorable elements that make an individual resume initially stand out and then be remembered days later. Here are some of the resume power factors he shared on his blog:

• Emphasize your accomplishments: Hiring managers prioritize accomplishments that generate bottom-line business results – and AI will be programmed to look for them as well. Instead of the traditional resume approach where it’s essentially a work history listing your job duties and skills, turn it into “an accomplishment sheet.” Each accomplishment gets its own bullet point and a name, with a description and the impact in dollars. Each job will have some or many of these accomplishments under it. “You should also highlight the accomplishments during your volunteer work and your education,” he adds.
• Quantify your results: Numbers and dollars are often used in tandem – we sold 12 packages, at a total value of $1.6-million – but dollars have the most impact. In some cases, you won’t have an actual number but definitely offer an estimate. Make sure to include a benchmark comparison number so the reader can see the improvement you had.
• Include measures of the quality of your work: “Applicants who want to stand out must include quantified measures of both their work volume and quality. Quality is often measured by Six Sigma, customer satisfaction, return rates and new features,” he writes.
• Show your work is always completed on time: For jobs or industries where completing work on time is critical, such as transportation delivery and retail service, periodically include on-time metrics, showing that the most important work was completed on or before its deadline.
• Reveal the quality of the organizations you have worked for: When you have worked at an organization that wasn’t well-known, educate the reader about the quality or exceptional work being done at it. After you list the employer’s name, put a dash and provide a sentence with a description of its quality.
• Show that you have worked with key internal people and well-known customers: If a project involved working closely with the CEO or marketing chief, say so, and similarly name top companies or people you worked with externally.
• Show that you have used technology: In recent jobs, explain how you have continuously learned about, embraced or used the latest current and emerging technologies.

Resumes are your marketing message for a job. Use them wisely.

• AI skills are increasingly being mentioned in resumes. The special sauce, according to Deepali Vyas, global head of the FinTech, Crypto and Payments practice at Korn Ferry, is to make that AI knowledge directly relevant to the job: How you have used AI tools to do this particular job better and more productively.
• For getting things done at work, exercising and other goals, Winnipeg entrepreneur David Cain advises when you do it can be critical. Find the best conditions – the best when – for worthwhile things. He only started exercising consistently, for example, when he switched to mid-day.
• “Never outsource what you enjoy,” says Atomic Habits author James Clear.

Harvey Schachter is a Kingston-based writer specializing in management issues. He, along with Sheelagh Whittaker, former CEO of both EDS Canada and Cancom, are the authors of When Harvey Didn’t Meet Sheelagh: Emails on Leadership.

Report an editorial error

Report a technical issue

Editorial code of conduct

Follow related authors and topics

Authors and topics you follow will be added to your personal news feed in Following .

Interact with The Globe

7 Best Resume Writing Services (+ Which Are Worth It)

3 key takeaways

• There's a wide range of professional resume writing services ranging from executive to budget.
• While job seekers often pay per resume with a professional writer, AI resume builders allow you to quickly create and optimize several versions to each job, presenting a more cost-efficient alternative.
• Teal’s AI Resume Builder is unlike most resume writing services in that it allows you to tailor your resume to every single job application using keyword matching and scoring. 

One of the biggest questions surrounding resume writing services is whether or not they’re worth it. 

The answer: it varies.

If you’re new to the job market and your resume is fairly simple, or you are working with a lower budget, you might not need a dedicated resume writer.

But if you’re looking to tailor you’re resume for the job, while meeting ATS (applicant tracking systems) readability standards , then you might need a professionally-written resume. 

This article compares some of the best resume writing services, where you can hire them, and how to choose the right one for you.

Struggling to land interviews with your resume? Get started with Teal’s AI Resume Builder for free.

Types of resume writing services

While the goal of professional resume writing services is to create a resume that’ll land you a job, each type of resume service goes about it differently.

Resume writing services from a company

Larger companies that employ hundreds of freelance resume writers are a popular choice for many job seekers with a decent budget and a longer timeline with their applications.

The benefit of this type is the company is optionality. Some may even have in-house writers dedicated to your specific industry or role and can provide insights into previously successful resumes. 

Some resume writing services are large enough that they don’t dedicate one person or team to your account. Instead, you’ll have multiple people working on your resume, and the communication between them might not be stellar. They also might keyword stuff rather than weaving them in naturally.

One job seeker from Reddit shared their experience using a professional resume writing service: 

“I went with a resume writing service, and they clearly outsourced it to a country where English is not the most commonly spoken language. It was terrible and rife with errors. Luckily, I got my money back.”

Specialized resume writing services

These are services dedicated either to your industry or career level, such as executive resume writing services, which often offer career training as well. 

These services often have a directory of writers they vet and certify to write resumes for their specific industries, so you know you’re getting a professional. Typically, you’ll have a dedicated writer or team rather than subcontracted writers, editors, and reviewers.

Cons of specialized resume writing services

While they’re more tailored and often include specific skills to help you land more interviews, they tend to be more costly. You might also have deal with delays in your ability to apply, as you go through a series of interviews with the service to ensure they’re truly capturing your work experience.

Resume writers

You can, of course, hire a professional resume writer that is unaffiliated with any company. These writers often work for themselves as a freelancer or small business, and have niched down into one particular area of resume writing.

Cons of working with a professional resume writer

While they might have specialized industry knowledge, they're likely not familiar with the nuances of modern hiring tech or recruiting. They could just be a good writer that passed a training program to become certified in resume writing.

Teal’s Director of Talent, Mike Peditto, echoes this with his statement:

"Some resume writers rely on a bit more of an outdated style that puts a large focus on visual appeal above the user experience of the reader. They often rely heavily on graphics, charts, tables or other design tactics that not only may get lost in an ATS, but also tend to focus on the items a recruiter doesn't need to see right away. This can be be more distracting than valuable to somebody quickly doing a pass through of the resume looking for key information."

Building a resume with a resume builder

A resume builder is a tool that allows you to create and customize your resume again to match the position you’re applying for. 

This can be advantageous, since you understand your work history and industry better than anyone else. You also know which skills you want to highlight more depending on the role and how well you match it. 

Another benefit is cost per resume. You can create as many resumes as you’d like, allowing you to tailor the resume to every single application. Whereas most services will provide you with one polished resume that isn’t tailored to a specific role, unless you’ve requested such. 

Cons of using a resume builder

If your writing skills aren’t strong, you might not fully highlight your skills and experience without the help of AI features, not available in every resume builder. And while AI will assist in the writing, you will still want to personalize it. Teal gives you the best of both worlds with AI writing and ability to pull keywords from the job description, allowing you to better tailor each resume at scale.

You also might need to rely on templates to ensure you’re using the correct formatting to meet standards for an ATS.

7 top resume writing services

Calling anything “the best” is subjective to the criteria. Our criteria for determining the best writing services includes:

• Speedy delivery
• Good pricing
• Writing skills commensurate with your level of education, expertise, and career

No recruiter or hiring manager is going to spend ages pouring over the details of your resume. But they will still notice typos, glaring grammatical errors, and formatting inconsistencies. 

Worse, your resume won’t get a second glance at all if your experience and skills don’t jump off the page and scream, “I’m the one for the job”. 

So, you need a professional resume service that understands your work history and how to highlight your experience, for the right price, so you can apply before the window of opportunity closes. 

Below are nine of the best resume services available right now:

• Best executive resume writing service
• Best resume writing services online
• Best-rated resume writing services
• Best affordable resume writing services

Best AI-powered resume builder

Best specialty resume writing services.

• Best resume writing service with additional professional packages
• Best resume service with quick turnaround time

Best executive resume writing service: Executive Resume Writers

TopResume is one of the most well-known resume writing services for executives. However, the negative experiences around their services have been widely recounted in online reviews and forums. 

If you want a true executive service, consider Executive Resume Writers.

Their clients have found work at Capital One, Dell, Google, Humana, Salesforce, Morgan Stanley, and dozens of other recognizable corporations.

They’re professional resume writers have written for a wide range of executive titles, from VP & Managing Director to President and CEO. 

Industry specializations

• Arts & Entertainment
• Financial Services
• Hospitality
• Information Services
• Manufacturing
• Other Industry
• Professional and Technical Services
• Public Administration
• Real Estate
• Retail Trade

Other services offered

Beyond their expertise in writing resumes for the executive level, they also offer: 

• LinkedIn optimization
• Interview preparation
• Career coaching

Cost: While Executive Resume Writers doesn't explicitly list their pricing, they do offer a range of $2,000 to $5,000.

Best-rated resume writing service: TopStack

Searching for professional resume writing services with the best ratings compared to the number of ratings and reviews, you find that TopStack lives up to its name by coming up top. They have a 4.8 star rating with 1,968 reviews on Trustpilot—more than any other resume writing service (excluding AI resume builders).

They have an incredibly simple process from filling out your initial intake form to assigning you to one of their experienced, US-based writers within 1-2 days. If you need to expedited the order, they’re able to accommodate if you alert them to this. 

Once assigned, they give their writers 48 hours to turn in a first draft. You may get up to two revisions of your resume after you’ve paid for your first draft. 

TopStack does not name list their staff publicly. Instead, they state they have experts in every single industry :

“Our team of 100+ professional writers have worked with clients in all industries and at all experience levels. In the (very) rare event that we don't have someone with experience writing in your field, we'll reach out to you after placing an order.” 

Other services

• LinkedIn profile development
• Cover letters
• Personal recruiting
• Career consulting

TopStack offers four different payment options. Their most basic package is $139, and their most expensive is $1149, paid on a monthly basis as it includes a personal recruiter that’ll go beyond the call to find you a job.

Best affordable resume writing service: ZipJob

ZipJob is one of the most affordable resume writing services that still offer professional writers and a decent turnaround of three to seven days. They back up their services with a guarantee that you land an interview within 60 days.

What sets them apart, aside from the low price, is that they grant you unfettered access to your professional resume writer.

ZipJob employs a roster of over 100 professional resume writers that have worked in Fortune 500 recruiting, career coaching, HR, and job placement, aside from resume writing. 

ZipJob has specialists in over 65 industries, including:

• Free resume review
• LinkedIn profile optimization

Cost: $139 to $299

Best resume writing service by offering: Let’s Eat, Grandma

While the name might bring on a laugh, Let’s Eat, Grandma is all serious when it comes to resume writing packages. 

Their most affordable service is fairly basic, offering a 30 minute one-on-one consultation, well-crafted resume, and two revisions. Their most extensive package of the four includes nine services, such as executive career coaching and unlimited revisions.

If you’re working on a shorter timeline for applying to positions, they might not be your best choice, as you’ll receive your first draft in about a week and the two revisions after an additional week.

But if you’re looking for a resume writing service that offers more than the average service, with true professionals at a decent price (and aren’t on a time restraint), Let’s Eat, Grandma is a great option. 

While they do not list their industries, it’s safe to assume they work with a wide range of clients.

• Executive resume
• Value proposition letter
• Digital guide to cold emails & thank-you notes
• Executive LinkedIn profile rewrite
• Access to a dedicated customer success representative
• 10 days of unlimited revisions
• 4x the talk time with your writer
• 60-minute executive career coaching session
• Guaranteed senior writer for executives
• Job search strategy meeting
• Career roadblock office hours
• Strategic applicant guide
• LinkedIn profile rewrite
• Resume critique

Cost: $439 to $1,899

Best resume service by speed: The Job Sauce

The Job Sauce doesn’t use their quick turnaround as a selling point but, nonetheless, they get you in front of an assigned writer within one business day. The work is fast yet skilled, and even their most basic package comes packed with bonus features.

Members get an industry-specific writer, a LinkedIn best practices guide, and lifetime webinar access. If you upgrade to the more premium package, you get services like training in salary negotiation and clarity coaching.

Industry specialization

They don’t list the industries they serve, but they do mention that they provide an industry-specific writer. 

‍ Other services

• Upgraded results-driven resume
• Applicant tracking systems optimized
• LinkedIn best practice guide
• Industry-specific professional writer
• Quick turnaround time
• Lifetime webinar access
• Premium assessments
• Two 60-minute calls
• Clarity on next steps
• Interview coaching
• Job offer coaching

Cost: $369 to 799

When it comes to specialty resume writing services, it only makes sense to highlight a few different services, considering the wide range of specializations.

Find My Profession is a great federal resume writing service that happens to specialize in C-Suite resume writing services.

ResuMeds is a top choice resume writing service for medical professionals. They’re fairly priced with a rate of $100 to 225 and have a turnaround time of three days.

iCareer Solutions offers professional resume writing services for IT, fintech, and software professionals. They won first place for Information Technology Resume Writing in the 2019 TORI Awards (Toast Of the Résumé Industry) from Career Directors International (CDI).

• Medical professionals
• C-suite executives
• Federal employees
• IT professionals
• Software engineering
• Data analytics
• Programming
• System analytics
• Cover letter writing
• LinkedIn makeover
• Professional bio
• Networking resume
• Resume distribution
• US recruiters listing

Cost: $100 to 1500

Want the advantages of a specialized resume writing service without the service cost and wait time? Teal’s match scoring makes it easy to compare your resume to a job description . 

While hiring a professional resume writing service is a great option for those with a higher budget, more technical needs, and less-confident writing skills, they aren’t the only option for creating a high-powered resume. 

An AI-powered resume builder like Teal is a great option if you're applying to multiple jobs and need to tailor every resume to the job descriptions. 

The AI identifies the keywords as well as soft and hard skills within a job description, highlighting them for you and scoring your resume based on how well it matches.

Teal’s AI Professional Summary considers both the job you’re applying for and your work experience to tailor a professional resume that highlights the ten percent of you that's 100 percent relevant to each job.

A lot of resume writers and job seekers make the mistake of simply listing their responsibilities and tasks on their resume, versus the outcomes they’ve produced. The AI achievements feature in Teal is the answer to that. This feature pulls out specific accomplishments, such as cutting spend for your company or reducing expenses by 20 percent. 

Industry specialties

Teal is an online resume building tool usable by any job seeker in any industry, for any level of experience. 

• Job Application Tracker
• Resume Checker
• Cover letter Generator
• LinkedIn Profile Review
• Autofill Job Applications
• Resume Bullet Point Generator
• Professional Bio Generator
• Career Personality Test
• Career Goal Tracker
• Networking CRM
• Job Search Chrome Extension
• Job Application Email Templates
• Resume Templates
• Resume and Cover Letter Examples

Cost: Free to $9 per week

Is it worth paying for resume writing service?

From looking at loads of reviews and services, it’s easy to tell that the answer doesn’t just depend on your situation, but on the service you choose.

The larger resume services that promise the lowest prices and the fastest turnarounds tend to make customers feel scammed. Customers have largely noted that their work was outsourced and the writers didn’t incorporate feedback or understand their work history. 

In this case, using an AI resume builder like Teal helps you not only tailor one resume, but hundreds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What companies provide the best-rated resume writing service.

TopStack is highly rated with a 4.8-star rating on Trustpilot. Executive Resume Writers are known for their success with high-level positions at companies like Google and Morgan Stanley. ZipJob offers affordable and professional resume writing with a 60-day interview guarantee.

What are the pros and cons of paying for resume writing?

Pros include professional writers crafting tailored, ATS-friendly resumes. Cons include the risk of poor quality from outsourced services and higher costs. Additionally, there's no job guarantee.

What is the best resume writer service?

Executive Resume Writers are ideal for high-level positions. TopStack is great for general professional resumes with positive customer feedback. ZipJob is best for budget-friendly, professional resume writing.

Paying for a resume service can increase your chances of passing ATS and impressing recruiters. The value depends on the quality of the service chosen. High-rated services are more likely to deliver worthwhile results.

How much does a resume writing service cost?

Basic services start around $139, like those from ZipJob. Mid-range services, such as TopStack, range from $139 to $1,149. High-end executive services can cost between $2,000 and $5,000. In comparison, AI resume builders like Teal start at $9/week.

Sarah Colley

Related articles.

How To List Microsoft Office Skills on Your Resume (+ Examples)

A Confidential Resume: How To Write One (+ Is It Risky?)

9 Tips for an Easy-To-Read Resume

We help you find the career dream.

Resume Dos and Don’ts: How To Write a Great Resume

Monday, October 18, 2021

Carlson School Graduate Programs

Resumes are crucial in the world of business. When you’re applying for a job, your resume is often the first thing a potential employer looks at. How you present yourself in your resume could be the difference between landing the job of your dreams and not getting invited in for an interview. So how can you go about grabbing an employer’s attention? Experts at the Carlson School’s Graduate Business Career Center shared some dos and don’ts for your next job search.  

Look For Keywords When you’re putting together your resume for a job, pay careful attention to the job postings that interest you. Look for keywords in the job description and include those words—or examples of your experiences in those areas—where relevant in your experience or skills sections.

Be Specific About Your Career Accomplishments Instead of only listing your job duties in your experience section, highlight some of your major accomplishments, and be specific. Instead of saying you “increased sales,” include by how much and over what time frame. Writing you “increased sales by 33% in the first six months” lets hiring managers know much more about both your experience and your job performance.

Use Active Language While being specific, be sure to use active language without extraneous words. If your resume is too long or can be hard to read in places, shorten your sentences with more powerful words and ideas that are more concise. Simple sentences with easy-to-understand terms are the way to go.

Proofread Your Resume This may seem like a simple step, but giving your resume another look or having a friend read it over can go a long way. An embarrassing typo or mistake could cost you a chance to interview.  

Make Your Resume Too Long Unless you’re at the C-suite level, most resumes should be one or two pages long. Hiring managers may be looking over dozens or even hundreds of resumes for the same position, so write in a concise manner. The strongest resumes are often brief and to the point.

Include Experience That Is Not Relevant Unless it’s an entry-level position, there likely is no reason to include your experience as a summer lifeguard. Keep your experience on your resume relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Use Cliche or Jargon Unless they’re specifically mentioned in the job description, avoid cliche phrases like “team player” or “detail-oriented.” Many of these types of phrases are overused and ring hollow nowadays.

Include Your GPA  If you have years of experience in your industry, hiring managers likely don’t need this information. Many will only care about your highest level of education and what and where you studied.

• Majors & Minors
• Freshman Students
• Transfer Students
• International Students
• Returning Students
• Class Profile
• Scholarships
• Impact Core
• Experiential Learning
• Immersion Core
• International Experience
• First Year Experience
• Organizations
• Student Ambassadors
• Requirements & Deadlines
• Deferred Entry
• International Applicants
• Specializations
• Employment Statistics
• Alumni Profiles
• Clubs & Organizations
• Global Experience
• State Authorization
• Residency Options
• Student Life
• Leadership Development
• International Residency
• Global Team Project
• Lingnan College
• WU Executive Academy
• Valuation Lab
• Tuition & Aid
• Artificial Intelligence in Business
• Partner Schools
• CFA Affiliation
• Requirements
• Student Papers
• Graduate Placement
• Award Winners
• Department Staff
• Dual Degrees
• Custom Solutions
• Talent Development Partnerships
• Carlson General Management Program
• Success Stories
• Learning Measurement & Impact Services
• Short Courses by Date
• Participant Stories
• Executive Certificates
• Centers & Institutes
• Departments
• Behavioral Labs
• 1st Tuesday Previous
• Insight to Action
• Regional Events
• Professional Development Webinars
• Past Events
• National Chapters
• International Chapters
• Affinity Networks
• Corporate Clubs
• With Students
• Career Coaching
• Lifelong Learning
• Subscribe to Magazine
• Submit Class Note
• Engagement Mode
• People & Partners
• Gender Equality Action Group
• Teaching Cases
• Research Grants
• Publications
• COVID-19 Hospitalization Tracking Project
• Faculty, Fellows, and Partners
• Partnerships
• Get Involved
• Program Finder
• Connecting Flight
• Identity Course
• Financial Aid
• Parents & Families
• Policies & Forms
• Identity Abroad
• Health & Safety
• Partner School
• Global Executive Programs
• Important Dates
• Student Visa
• Fees & Expenses
• Arrival & Welcome Program
• Health and Safety Resources
• Global Education Management
• Going Global Newsletter
• Year in Review
• Speaker Series
• Video Series
• Director's Message
• Advisory Council
• Alumni Newsletter
• Herman Library
• Support the Center
• Program Staff
• Advisory Committee
• What We Offer
• Benefactors
• Advisory Board
• Entrepreneurship in Action
• For Students
• For Entrepreneurs
• For Mentors
• About the Institute
• Ignite Conference
• Joseph M. Juran
• 2014-2018 Winners
• 2009-2013 Winners
• 2004-2008 Winners
• 1999-2003 Winners
• Analytics Maturity Model
• Project Workshop
• National Industry Council
• Executive in Residence
• MILI Student Association (MILIsa)
• MILI Undergraduates (MILIu)
• Case Competitions
• MILI Specialization
• Platou Leadership Award
• Data Resources
• Finch Fellows
• For Clients
• Academic Programs
• Hotel & Travel
• 2010-present
• Industry Partners
• Friday Research Workshops
• Seminar Series
• New Product Design
• Undergraduate Programs
• Graduate Programs
• Student Dissertations
• Executive Committee
• Board of Advisors
• Capstone Projects
• Undergraduate
• Employment Reports
• Companies & Employers
• Global Learning
• Full-Time MBA Students
• PTMBA & MSF Students
• Undergraduate Students
• MBA Students
• Marketing Students
• Faculty & Staff
• Methodology
• Project Structure
• Entrepreneurship
• Emerging Leaders of Color
• Business Innovation Academy
• Analytics U
• Carlson THRIVE
• Living in Minneapolis
• Hire Students
• Engage Student Talent
• Access Expertise
• Ways to Give
• Investors Circle
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Student Consultants
• Executive Fellows
• Senior Staff
• Current Initiatives
• Cultural Competency
• Annual Report
• Frequently Asked Questions

Was your WestJet flight cancelled this weekend? Here's what you need to know

Thousands of passengers affected after surprise mechanics' strike on july 1 holidays.

'So disappointed': Toronto travellers frustrated by WestJet cancellations, delays

Social sharing.

Roughly 33,000 travellers have been impacted by the unexpected news on Saturday morning that WestJet had cancelled a slew of flights after mechanics announced a surprise strike.

Here's what you need to know about how to get moving and/or compensated if you're among the affected travellers.

• WestJet cancels 235 flights as mechanics strike in surprise move on busy long weekend

What are the rules in a situation like this?

Airlines have to comply with Canada's Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), which give air passengers using Canadian airlines certain rights by laying out the minimum requirements companies must follow for air travel.

• Air passenger complaint backlog hits new high, but agency says it's processing complaints faster

The regulations also detail the standards for communication with passengers, and for compensation when flights are delayed or cancelled, or when your baggage is lost. The Canadian Transportation Agency oversees the APPR. 

According to the regulations, affected passengers can expect an update every 30 minutes until they have a new departure time or itinerary.

Can I still get where I'm trying to go?

An airline must offer passengers a choice between helping you continue to your destination or returning to your point of origin with a refund, according to  Air Passenger Rights , an independent, non-profit advocacy group.

WestJet can rebook you on another of its flights or that of a partner airline within 48 hours of your original departure time, said Gabor Lukacs, president of the group.

"But if it cannot, then WestJet will have to take out its corporate credit card and buy passengers tickets on flights of Air Canada or any other competitor — that's the law," he told CBC News Network on Saturday morning. 

Traveller affected by WestJet delays says vacations 'a hard thing to come by these days'

The APPR say you can even look at flights leaving from other airports within a "reasonable distance" and expect WestJet to help you get to that point of departure.

If the only seats available are in a higher class of service than you originally booked — such as first or business class — the airline must book you on them without asking you to pay the difference, according to the APPR.

If the opposite is true — you booked a higher class of service and can now only fly economy — then the airline must refund you the difference.

Can I take matters into my own hands?

In a statement posted to its website on Friday,  WestJet says there are "limited re-accommodation options available," suggesting it would be difficult for some people to make alternate plans to get where they're going.

On Saturday, the airline cancelled 235 flights and said another 150 wouldn't proceed if a solution to the dispute isn't reached by early Saturday afternoon.

If you run into trouble with WestJet's "re-accommodation options," you could rebook flights yourself and pursue compensation later, Lukacs said.

"If you do want to fly, you do not utter the word 'refund,'" Lukacs  said. "You are not seeking a refund. You are seeking a rebooking. If you are seeking a refund, WestJet will just refund you and wash its hands from your expenses down the line."

He recommends keeping a careful record of your conversations with the airline — even by going so far as to record your conversations — and keeping track of all the expenses you incur.

Small claims court is an option, he added.

What if I want a refund?

The simple answer? You are entitled to get your money back.

"Money back is always an option," Lukacs said. "If you didn't get a flight you paid for, the airline has to give you back your money. That's a no-brainer."

The regulations also say that if you're not at your point of origin when you ask for a refund, the airline must also fly you back home.

But asking for a refund means you might be leaving some money on the table in the long run, Lukacs warned.

Under the regulations, you must receive your money back within 30 days if you go this route.

With files from Jenna Benchetrit

Related Stories

• WestJet cancels hundreds of flights as mechanics strike in surprise move on busy long weekend