Due to the Labour Day long weekend, our Centre will have extended hours of operation on Thursday, August 28.

  • August 25 to 27 (Mon-Wed) - 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • August 28 (Thurs) - 9:00 am to 6:30 pm
  • August 29 (Fri) - 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • August 30 to September 1 (Sat to Mon) - CLOSED

Sharpening My Skills to Succeed!

Posted at:
UPGRADE SKILLS TO SUCCEED

After moving to Canada, I began searching for work in the same field that I had previously experience in back home. Although I held all the required qualifications in my country of origin, they were not recognized in Canada, and I struggled to understand the certification process here. I had been looking for work for over three months and yet I was still unemployed. My hope of returning to work was beginning to fade, and my path to employment felt uncertain.

One day, when a family friend heard me talk about my struggles to secure employment, they recommended I try WorkBC. This friend told me that I should visit a centre because they have the tools and resources to help people find meaningful work, sharpen their skills, and apply to jobs in an effective way. I realized this was exactly the support I needed and reached out right away.

At the WorkBC Centre in Whalley, I received guidance on how to get my degree certified and the steps needed to become fully qualified in my field. They helped me strengthen my job search skills by enrolling me in various workshops and classes. I learned how to improve my job application materials, such as preparing and tailoring resumes and cover letters. I also gained confidence in my interview skills through learning new strategies taught by the staff members.

I continued working closely with my case manager, who guided me through job searching strategies, application processes, and even helped me with attending job fairs. As I continued my job search, I broadened my career interests and explored a wider range of employment opportunities. My case manager also assisted me with obtaining a wage subsidy letter, which I used when applying for jobs. The wage subsidy program proved to be an extremely beneficial asset, as it made my application more attractive to potential employers. Additionally, my case manager reached out to a number of employers directly to inquire about open positions, actively supporting me throughout my job search journey. 

I am thrilled to share that I am now employed as a Customer Service Representative.

I am so grateful for WorkBC. For newcomers or anyone unfamiliar with the Canadian job market, WorkBC is one of the most helpful sources of support and will keep you motivated. WorkBC can help you stay on track with searching for work, applying to jobs, and sharpening your skills. I encourage anyone who needs help to reach out. They will equip you with the right tools you need to succeed. 

I believe that success isn’t easy, but with the right support and a starting point, you can find your own path and create your own way to reaching your goals.

WorkBC

WorkBC is the provincial government's access point to the world of work in British Columbia. It was created with one key goal — to help all British Columbians to successfully navigate B.C.'s labour market.