No matter what industry you’re in, it pays to have connections with people who can tell you where to apply and what to say to advance your career. 

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a favourite uncle who owns a thriving business. However, job seekers can gain an advantage by partnering with an employment agency specializing in the type of work they seek. 

Employment agencies expand your opportunities and help get your foot in the door. 

The Best Job Openings Aren’t Always Posted

Employment agencies have an existing database of companies they already work with. 

Some of the best companies out there never advertise their available positions. Many prefer the services of a reliable employment agency that will save them time reviewing applications and conducting interviews. 

Partnering with an employment agency increases your chances of getting picked by decreasing the numbers you’re applying against. Rather than competing against the general public, employment agencies will get you onto a short list of preferred candidates.

Assistance for Temporary Workers and Permanent Job Seekers

For many job seekers, it’s less about the type of work and more about finding paying jobs quickly. Others want to stay working while holding out for their dream position. 

Whether you’re seeking a long-term role in a ticketed, highly-skilled position or working as a temporary labourer to pay the bills, teaming up with a reputable agency will boost your chances of landing gainful employment.

Employment specialists can point you toward companies offering temporary contracts or permanent roles based on your preference. 

Employment Agencies Remain Invested in Your Success

Finding work in any sector can be difficult, especially if you’re new to the industry. Applying to online wanted ads day after day can feel like an impersonal, never-ending chore, especially when your efforts result in zero leads. 

Employment agencies provide you with valuable in-person assistance. Prospective employees have an office location they can visit and people to speak with about any concerns. A good employment agency will make you feel like you’re talking to a friend with an inside track on landing work.  

Not only do employment agencies know who’s hiring right away, they’ll steer you toward companies that best fit your future goals. 

Your Questions Answered

Employment agencies ensure you get paid on time and that the working conditions are safe. They understand job site protocols and will guide you through the knowledge you need to succeed in your position. 

With a reputable employment agency by your side, you have an engaged advocate looking out for your best interests every step of the way, from your initial application forward. 

Could You Use Some Guidance in Your Job Search?

Being out of work is trying enough without experiencing further disappointments. Why go through the application process only to feel like you’ve wasted time on a dead end or a shady prospect? Employment specialists streamline the process of finding good employers and eliminate your chances of encountering online job scams.  

Remember, employment agencies don’t charge you for their services; the hiring company compensates them. 

If you could use some advice on how to get a leg up on the competition in the job market, the services of an honest employment agency will greatly improve your chances of finding work. 

Over the years, many job seekers in Vancouver, New Westminster, and Abbotsford have relied on the services of the Employment Specialists agency. Stop by or reach out today for assistance with your job search in the trades or warehousing sectors.

While it is easy to start off in the construction industry as an apprentice, progressing in your career not only requires experience but also valid training and certification. Construction safety certifications open opportunities to work in specialty positions and can help you diversify your skill set. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career in the industry, having construction safety certifications can significantly enhance your expertise, credibility, and overall safety practices. Read on to learn more about the importance of construction safety and some of the construction safety certifications that employers are looking for. 

Enhanced Safety Knowledge

While wearing a hard hat and a harness seem intuitive, construction safety certifications involve so much more. Many of these safety certification courses provide comprehensive training on industry best practices, standards, and regulations, so you are up to date on the latest knowledge in the field. You learn to spot potential hazards and adopt preventive measures to create a safer workplace for you and your colleagues.

Compliance with Regulations

If you have been thinking about branching out into your trade on your own, it’s vital that you are compliant with the latest regulations. Staying informed means the risk of legal complications, penalties, or project shutdowns is reduced, and your new business can flourish.

Increased Productivity

Knowing that their work environment is safe, allows people to work better and be more productive. If you work in a supervisory position, knowing that you are in charge can help your team shine. As a bonus, you can ensure that your team is at a lower risk of injuries. Great work performance can lead to bigger and better things!

Professional Development

Investing in safety certifications that are relevant to your trade or role in the construction industry shows employers that you are proactive and conscientious. Holding safety certifications can help you advance in your role, obtain supervisory positions, or pave the way for a completely new career in the construction industry. Naturally, all these often come with better salaries and perks too. 

Canadian Construction Safety Certifications

Traditional post-secondary education is not the only way you can advance your career in the construction industry. Many construction safety certifications are short courses that require little to no time off work, with theory classes conducted online. Some require a minimum amount of work experience, while others are a great starting point for those starting their careers in the construction industry. Additionally, some employers may also be willing to subsidize or fund these certification courses for eligible employees. 

Some construction safety certifications are accepted nationwide while others are region-specific to comply with provincial occupational health and safety regulations. We’ve looked at some of these in detail below.

• The Canadian Construction Association’s (CCA) Gold Seal Certification

The (CCA) Gold Seal Certification is designed for estimators, forepersons, owner’s construction managers, project managers, safety practitioners, and superintendents. While the coursework is designed for their specific roles, they encourage safety training in addition to this. Participants can claim credits for safety training taken including first aid/CPR, WHMIS, COR, and more.

It is an ideal certification for established professionals in the industry.

• WHMIS Certification

WHMIS stands for the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. This certification is meant for anyone who works with hazardous materials. The course educates them on the proper handling, storage, and disposal of dangerous substances. The WHMIS course is offered by many organizations and takes an hour to complete. It has no prerequisites for signing up and you receive your certification after successfully passing a multiple-choice exam. 

It’s a great certification for those entering the construction industry.

• Occupational First Aid (OFA)

Work Safe BC has strict regulations regarding first aid workers and has developed a set of first aid courses with three levels. They are as follows:

• OFA Level 1 Basic level first aid training and certification
• OFA Level 2 Intermediate level first aid training and certification
• OFA Level 3 Advanced level of first aid training and certification

Construction sites are required to have OFA-certified personnel present with the level depending on the work being carried out. OFA certificate courses have no prerequisites other than being at least 16 years old. Holding an OFA certification can help you apply for specialized jobs in the construction industry and command a better salary, even if you are just starting. You can find a list of approved OFA training providers on the Work Safe BC website.

• Construction Safety Officer Certification

The Construction Safety Officer (CSO) Certificate is obtained by registering with the Applied Science Technicians and Technologists of BC (ASTTBC). This certificate allows you to work as a CSO on construction sites. Construction Safety Officers are involved in training new workers, identifying hazards, and ensuring safety protocols are followed on a work site.

Several institutes offer the necessary training to become a CSO. However, you may need some previous coursework or on-site experience to be eligible for training programs.

• Specialized Certifications

Apart from these, there are several specialized certifications that you can obtain depending on your job profile including forklift training, fall protection, confined spaces, and more. 

Many of these certifications need to be renewed via continuing education classes periodically. Pursuing certifications that align with your career goals can help you improve your skills and advance your career.

Whether you’re looking for temporary or permanent jobs, building your experience is key to a successful career. Employment Specialists can help you find your dream job in the construction sector that aligns with your interests, skills, and career goals. 

Visit our offices today in Vancouver, New Westminster, and Abbotsford, and let us guide you on a transformative journey toward your dream job.

What is a SIN number?

SIN stands for Social Insurance Number (making the term ‘SIN number’ redundant). It is required to work legally in Canada.

A SIN is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Canadian government to identify individuals. It shows employers that you can legally work in the country and allows you to access government benefits. A SIN number is essential for the following reasons:

• Employment: Employers are required to have the SIN number of new employees within the first three days of the start date of their employment. In some cases, employers may permit you to start working without a SIN, but you need to show proof that you have applied for one. In such cases, you are allowed to work until you receive your SIN, and it must be submitted to your employer immediately. Note that you do not have to provide your SIN until you are hired.
• Taxes: You need a SIN to file taxes and to contribute to pension plans.
• Government Programs: A SIN lets you access government programs and benefits like Employment Insurance and the Canada Pension Plan.
• Banking: A bank may ask for your SIN if your account with them earns interest.

How to Apply for a SIN?

You can apply for your SIN by visiting a Service Canada office in person, by mail, or online. Depending on how you decide to apply, you will be asked to provide original documents (or digital copies of original documents) that demonstrate your legal status to reside and work in Canada. Applying in person means you get your SIN immediately, provided all your documents are in order while applying online or via mail can take a few days.

Canadian citizens are eligible to apply for a SIN anytime and the SIN is valid for life. Foreign nationals must apply for an SIN after they arrive in a country.  Documents you need include:

• A valid primary document that proves your identity and legal status in Canada like your birth certificate/certificate of Canadian Citizenship or a work permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC), or a study permit that demonstrates you are allowed to work in the country.
• Passport/driver’s licence/ Canadian Government-issued ID.

The documents you need to provide can vary depending on your legal status, so it’s a good idea to check the requirements on the Service Canada website.

Social Insurance Numbers for Temporary Workers

A SIN starting with the number ‘nine’ denotes a temporary SIN. The validity of this number corresponds to the expiration date indicated on the immigration document that allows the individual to work in Canada. For example, those on a student visa would have a SIN that is valid until the expiration date on their student visa.

Temporary workers need to renew their SIN with a new expiration date when they receive a new immigration document extending their right to work from the IRCC. If you SIN has expired but you are still waiting on a decision regarding your status from the IRCC, you are allowed to continue working under the same conditions until a decision has been made.

Protect Yourself (and Your SIN) from Identity Fraud

It is important to keep your SIN number safe and only share it with people authorized to ask for it. Some things you can do to keep it safe include:

• Storing your SIN in a safe place instead of carrying it around in a wallet or purse.
• Never use your SIN as a piece of identification.
• Only provide your SIN when it is legally required.
• Never give out your SIN to someone who called you and check if it is legally required to give to the person asking for it.
• Not replying to emails that ask for personal information like your SIN.
• Shredding paper records that contain your SIN when you no longer need them (do not recycle them).
• Updating the SIN program with changes to your name or citizenship status or to indicate if your SIN record is wrong or incomplete.
• Acting immediately if you suspect your SIN is being used fraudulently.

For help finding employment, get in touch with our recruiters today.

According to Statistics Canada, the unemployment rate rose in 2023, reaching 5% in May and increasing to 5.5% in July.

While this indicates that many people are looking for work, you can still land your perfect job with all the benefits you have been searching for.

But you must have the necessary tools.

Tools that make you stand out from the saturated markets considering job boards only advertise 20% of positions and networking fills the remaining 80%.

These tools include assistance from employment agencies for your job search to be successful. 

And what does an employment agency excel at?

Networking!

Employment agencies can help you find a job in an oversaturated market by doing the following:

1. Finding and Connecting you with Appropriate Career Opportunities

Employment agencies have mastered the art of locating job opportunities and matching them with appropriate candidates. They know what each job position requires, and so they match these positions perfectly.

This is why most companies prefer working with employment or recruitment agencies as it saves them a lot of time sifting through hundreds if not thousands of resumes.

However, you should not confuse employment agencies with recruitment agencies. The job description between these two agencies differs as shown in the table below.

2. Turbocharging Your Journey Through the Job Market

As unemployment in Canada continues to rise, the struggle to stand out from the crowd can be overwhelming.

But employment agencies help to make you stand out from the rest of the applicants.

For instance, referrals account for 40% of all hiring, which is how most employment agencies can match you with the appropriate position.

Also, your resume determines whether you get the job or not. 

So, considering each job posting attracts over 250 resumes and employees spend only six seconds on your resume, employment agencies like Employment Specialists, make yours stand out. 

They also help you keep the resume short, user-friendly, grammatically correct and relevant. This helps to present your skills and experiences more effectively on your resume.

Moreover, getting a job using employment agencies gets you hired quicker than using job boards. With employment agencies, it takes roughly 29 days, while job boards may take 55 days or more.

Perhaps it is because most employees who use employment agencies are more satisfied with their jobs and stay with organizations longer.

3. Offer Tips to Boost Interview Performance

Interviews carry a lot of weight in determining whether you get the job. What you say or do matters yet you have limited time to impress. Therefore you need all the help you can get.

And employment agencies step into this role by offering valuable tips and insights to elevate your interview process.

They also do the following:

• Equip you with tailored insights into what employers seek in interviews. 
• Conduct mock interviews to help you refine your responses.
• Help you navigate the tricky questions most interviewers ask to throw you off balance.
• Provide feedback by highlighting your areas of strength and where you need to work on. After you perfect it, they conduct another mock interview until you get it right.

So, leveraging these tips will enable you to stand out and provide responses that surpass the interviewer’s expectations.

Furthermore, by the time you attend the interview, you will be aware of the dos and don’ts. You will also understand the company’s needs, enabling you to showcase how you’re the perfect fit.

Conquer the Canadian Job Market with Employment Specialists’s Expertise

Now that you understand how beneficial it is to work with an employment agency, you need to choose a reliable partner like Employment Specialist.

We have years of experience making us experts in connecting job seekers with employers in the dynamic Canadian job market.

Also, our extensive network with Canadian employers especially in Abbotsford, Vancouver, and New Westminster enables us access to opportunities that might otherwise remain hidden.

Our expertise, skills, network and dedication to your success make us a valuable ally in your pursuit of meaningful employment in Canada.

Visit our offices today in Vancouver, New Westminster, and Abbotsford, and let us guide you on a transformative journey toward your dream job.

Looking for a job on your own can be stressful. An employment agency like Employment Specialists can help ease the process by helping you connect with like-minded employers who are looking for your skillsets in and around Vancouver. Employment agencies work as a link between companies and job seekers and often have the internal knowledge necessary to recommend candidates for jobs that aren’t even advertised yet. 

B.C.’s latest Labour Market Outlook (LMO) forecasts more than one million job openings into the next decade.  However, finding a job that meets your expectations and needs requires a little bit of effort on your part too. Read on for our top tips on how to work with an employment specialist to land your dream job.

• Get in Touch

Employment agencies aren’t going to know that you are looking for a job until you tell them. Get in touch with an employment agency to let them know that you are in the market for a job. In fact, it can be a good idea to get in touch with one even if you aren’t actively looking for a job but feel like you may want a change soon. This way they will keep an eye out for you and let you know when an appealing position becomes available.

• Communicate Your Needs and Expectations Clearly

It can be tempting to say yes to anything that comes your way, especially if you are in a crunch. While this may seem fine temporarily, it will only lead to discontent in the long run. Be honest about your career goals, your availability, and your expectations from your job. For example, don’t say you are fine with working on weekends if you aren’t. If you are looking for a permanent position, let your employment agency know. Very often they have job openings that transition from temporary contracts to permanent ones depending on performance. 

• Be Professional

Staffing agencies like to know that the people they place are competent. Very often, they will conduct an in-house interview to screen candidates and to get to know them better. It’s a good idea to take these interviews seriously. Treat a staffing agency interview like you would a job interview. Dress well, carry copies of your CV, and be prepared to answer questions about your previous work experience and skills. Be honest about any gaps in employment you may have had.

• Listen to Their Advice

It is in the best interests of yourself and the staffing agency to show your skillsets in the best possible light. When a recruitment agency looks over your resume and suggests edits – make them. After all, they know what employers are looking for. They may also call you for a mock interview to help you prepare for an interview. Listen to the advice they give – it can mean the difference between rejection and the job you’ve always wanted.

• Follow Up

When a staffing agency sends you for an interview, make sure you keep in touch with them. A short thank you email letting them know how the interview went for you is a nice gesture. You can also follow up about the status of an interview after a week or two. 

• Keep in Touch

Keep in touch with your employment agency even after you have landed your job. Let them know about any promotions you have received or any major updates in your professional career. You never know, you may want to use their services again – either to help you find staff of your own or to look for a new opportunity as you move up the career ladder.

Employment Specialists is a staffing agency that has a variety of daily opportunities in different industries. Whether you are seeking permanent or temporary jobs, our recruiters at the staffing agency do the searching for you and find placements that align with your goals. Apply online for your next dream job today.

What information does an ROE include?

Your employer is required to file an ROE with Service Canada, as well as provide you with a copy, every time there is an ‘interruption of earnings’, which can include circumstances such as maternity leave, termination, or a layoff, among others. An interruption of earnings occurs when your salary falls below 60% of your regular weekly earnings, including if you are absent due to illness or need to take time off to take care of an ill family member.

An ROE includes information about your employment and the reasons for the drop in your earnings including whether you were a seasonal employee, quit, or if your employment was terminated for other reasons. This information includes:

• The period of your employment, including the start date with this particular employer and the last day of paid employment with them.
• Information about both parties including names, addresses, social insurance numbers, etc.
• The final pay period ending date.
• Total amount of time worked along with the total earnings that are insurable under the Employment Insurance (EI) program.
• The reason why employment was terminated or why the ROE needs to be issued.

The rules vary for part-time employees, or those with irregular work schedules and incomes including firefighters and estate agents, among others. In these cases, the employer is typically required to issue an ROE if you have not worked for 30 days, or your employment has been terminated.

The ROE is a triplicate form. You receive the original copy – which you need to send to Service Canada to claim EI benefits. Your employer mails one copy to Service Canada and keeps the third copy for their own records.

How do you get your copy of your ROE to apply for Employment Insurance Benefits?

There are two ways an employer can issue your ROE. The first is fairly straightforward, where your employer sends an electronic copy of your ROE directly to Service Canada. In this case, you don’t need a paper copy of your own, nor do you need to send one to Service Canada. Your employer needs to do this within 5 days of the end of the pay period in which you stopped working. All you need to do to access your ROE is to create a My Service Canada Account online

Your employer can also give you a paper copy of your ROE. This is issued within 5 days of your interruption of earnings. You then need to mail this copy to:

Employment Insurance – Service Canada

PO Box 2602

Mississauga, Ontario

L4T 0B1

Applying for EI – A few tips:

You need a ROE for every employer you have worked for in the past 52 weeks while applying for EI. It’s a good idea to ask your employer for your ROE as soon as possible. 

Apply for Employment Insurance as soon as you have had seven days without pay. Do this even if your employer has not issued your Record of Employment form yet. In such a case, you need to provide Service Canada with proof of your employment like pay stubs and T-4 slips. The sooner you apply for EI, the less likely you are to lose out on any EI payments you are entitled to.  

If you have any trouble obtaining your ROE, call Service Canada’s EI information helpline on 1-800-206-7218.

For help finding employment, get in touch with our recruiters today.