Canadian-style résumés and reference letters

Job applications in Canada look quite different from those in Vietnam. This article summarizes Job Bank's résumé guidance and how to prepare work experience letters.

What an application includes

According to IRCC, when you apply for a job you usually send:

• a cover letter: a short explanation of why you are right for the job;
• a résumé (also called a CV): a list of your qualifications and work experience.

Do

• Keep it short and clear: according to Job Bank, an employer spends about 30 seconds skimming a résumé.
• No more than 2 pages, focused on recent experience; experience older than 15 years should be shortened or removed.
• Tailor your résumé to each job.
• Show concrete achievements with numbers (people supervised, sales, growth).
• Use simple words and action verbs.
• Put your full contact details at the top of the first page.
• Be honest: don't overstate your skills or results.

Don't

• Don't include age, weight, height, marital status, religion or political views.
• Don't add a photo: according to Job Bank, it is not the norm in Canada and can lower your chances.
• Never include your SIN.
• Don't use an unprofessional email address; use one based on your name.
• Don't list reasons for leaving past jobs, and don't put references in the résumé (send them only when asked).

Reference and work experience letters

Canadian employers may ask for references. Immigration applications also often require proof of work experience. A work experience letter should:

• be on company letterhead, with contact details, the signer's signature and title;
• state your job title, dates of employment, hours per week and salary;
• describe your main duties, matching the duties of the NOC code you declare.

Note Letters must reflect your real work. Misrepresenting experience or using false documents can lead to refusal and a 5-year ban on applying to Canada for misrepresentation.