Networking in Canada: 4 Practical Tips for Newcomers

What is Networking and Why Does It Matter when Job-Searching in Canada?

It’s a process of building and maintaining relationships with individuals who can offer support, information, and valuable connections. These relationships can help in various aspects of our lives, including career development, personal growth, and social engagement.

Networking can be challenging when you’re new to the country and still learning its customs and culture. In Canada, many job opportunities are found through personal connections. So, networking can help you learn about job opportunities that are not advertised. It also allows you to showcase your skills and get valuable advice from others.

Here are some tips to help you make connections at networking events:

1. Learn Basic Cultural Norms

First, make sure you understand the basics of Canadian culture to make a good impression and avoid misunderstandings.

• Be on time (Punctual): Arriving on time shows respect for others’ time. While punctuality norms may vary across different cultures in the Greater Toronto Area, it is still recommended to have a good habit of arriving 5-10 minutes early to all events or appointments.
• Politeness: Being polite and using phrases like “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” can go a long way.
• Personal space: Canadians generally prefer a bit of personal space. Avoid standing too close or touching someone unless it’s a handshake.
• Be genuine and respectful: Being genuine and authentic is essential for effective networking. And when you treat other people with respect, they are more likely to help.

Click here to read about four Canadian social etiquette to learn as a newcomer.

2. Prepare a self-introduction and engage in small talk

A short, friendly introduction can help you feel more confident when meeting new people. You can use small talk to start conversations, fill awkward silences, make connections, and create a comfortable atmosphere in social situations.

• Keep your introduction brief: Start with a smile and a hello, your name, and what you do. 
• Practice: Rehearse your introduction so it feels natural. You can practice in front of the mirror or with friends or family members.
• Ask simple open-ended questions: To start a conversation, you can ask, “I just moved here recently. Have you lived in Toronto long?” or “What brought you to this event?” From their answer, you can gather cues on what to ask next to get to know the person better.
• Giving compliments: This can be a good conversation starter other than asking simple questions.  You can also wear something eye-catching so people can initiate a conversation with you – for example, bright-colored shoes, a scarf, or a necktie.

3. Learn to end the conversation naturally

Knowing how to end a conversation positively is another essential skill for effective networking. Follow these tips when you feel that the conversation is going nowhere or when you want to network with other people.

• Give your business card: One way to end the conversation is to give your business card and offer to connect through LinkedIn. This way, you can get in touch, especially if you have a great conversation. For example, “It was a pleasure chatting with you. If you’re open to it, here’s my card. Let’s stay in touch on LinkedIn.”
• Excuse yourself to get a drink refill: Another way to leave the conversation naturally is to say, “I’m going to grab another drink, but I really enjoyed our chat.”
• Excuse yourself to talk to another person: Most people will have the same goal at a networking event. Meet and talk to as many people as possible. When you see someone you want to talk to, you can say, “I just saw someone I want to meet, but it was great talking to you. Here’s my card. I’d love to keep in touch.”

4. Be Present, Patient, and Persistent

No matter where you are, building a network takes effort and time. Relationships grow over time and

• Be in the Present Moment: Listen actively and engage mindfully when having a conversation. Be genuinely interested in what the other person is saying. This is how you build rapport.
• Stay Positive: If some interactions don’t lead to connections, move on to the next person and keep trying.
• Be Consistent: Regularly attend events and engage with your network to nurture the relationships.

Being proactive in engaging with others can increase your social and professional opportunities. The key is to have fun and enjoy the networking process. Continuously refine your approach and learn from your experiences to understand what works for you and what doesn’t.

Are you a new immigrant looking for mentoring or employment support for newcomers? Visit the YMCA GTA Newcomer Information Centre to speak with our Information and Referral Specialist and learn about your options.