23/11/2021
How to write a Canadian resume
The "dos" and "don'ts" of writing a Canadian-style 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.
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.
