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Pathway into Business Sector Career

This is a general step-by-step guide for mentees interested in starting a career in Business sector. It’s important to discuss your specific interests with your mentor for personalized guidance:

  1. Explore different Business fields.
  2. Discuss your interests with a mentor
  3. Understand the specific Business field that appeals to you.


Please remember, this is a general guide. For a more customized plan, it’s essential to
have detailed conversations with your mentor.

Step 1. Identify Your Area of Interest

  • Explore Roles: Understand the various roles available in the business sector, such as financial analyst, marketing coordinator, accountant, or business consultant.
  • Determine Industry: Research different industries (e.g., finance, healthcare, technology) to align with your strengths and interest areas.

Step 2: Assess and Build Relevant Skills

  • Foundational Skills: Excel in soft skills like communication, analytical thinking, and teamwork. For business roles, being detail-oriented and having strong time- management skills are essential.
  • Technical Skills:
    • Finance & Accounting: Knowledge of financial analysis, accounting principles, and tools like QuickBooks or SAP.
    • Marketing: Familiarity with digital marketing, SEO, social media platforms,and analytics.
    • General Business: Understanding of project management, financial forecasting, and proficiency in tools like Excel and Power BI.

Step 3: Credential Assessment (if Applicable)

  • Engineering Backgrounds in Finance/Management: If you have an engineering degree and are transitioning to business, assess credentials through World Education Services (WES) to determine equivalency in Canada.
  • Accounting: If pursuing accounting, consider a CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant) path, especially if you have previous accounting experience or qualifications.

Step 4: Pursue Certifications or Courses

  • Finance:Certifications like CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or CPA are valuable.
  • Marketing:Digital marketing courses from Google Digital Garage, Meta (Facebook) Blueprint, and HubSpot are recognized and often free.
  • Project Management: A CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) or PMP certification can be valuable for management and finance roles.

Step 5: Gain Canadian Experience

  • Internships: Many organizations offer internships, which can be a way to gain experience. Websites like Indeed.ca and LinkedIn are helpful for finding these opportunities.
  • Volunteering: Volunteer in non-profit organizations for business-related roles in finance, marketing, or event management. This experience helps build your Canadian business network.

Step 6: Leverage Settlement Services and Mentorship Programs

  • Services: Newcomer organizations like ACCES Employment, YMCA, or Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) offer workshops, resume-building, and business networking events.
  • Mentorship: Programs such as TRIEC Mentoring Partnership and Canadian Business Diversity Network provide mentorship for immigrants entering the business sector.

Step 7: Apply for Jobs and Continue Networking

  • Networking: Attend business seminars, webinars, or industry events in Canada. Platforms like Eventbrite and Meetup list networking events for business professionals.
  • Job Applications: Use LinkedIn, Workopolis, and Canada Job Bank to apply for entry-level roles. Prepare a Canadian-style resume that emphasizes relevant skills and experience.

Step 8: Consider Advanced Education or Certification as Needed

  • For career growth in the business sector, consider an MBA or Canadian- specific certifications like Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or Project Management Professional (PMP), which are respected across industries.