Working in Canada

Canada has an abundance of natural resources, including offshore gas reserves and onshore oil sands. As a result, there are plenty of jobs in the energy sector, as well as the country’s thriving finance, real-estate and communications industries. Expats report an excellent work-life balance in Canada, and the work environment in the country is generally happy and productive.

Business is booming in Canada and its economy is robust, stable and growing. In fact, the number of jobs has increased steadily over the last few years. With strong export ties to emerging Asian superpowers, the country is stable and always looking for expats to fill skills gaps in key industries. Although you may have to deal with some bureaucracy, the working environment tends to be open and welcoming to expats.

While you shouldn’t assume that business in Canada operates in exactly the same way as the United States and other Western countries, it has a similar work environment. Women have the same rights as men, and an increasing number are being appointed to top-level positions. Despite this, many women still earn less than their male counterparts.

Managers in Canada are expected to be team players, not dictators. They tend to be friendly and will involve everyone in decision making. Be direct and succinct – and respect everyone’s opinions, regardless of their rank. In Quebec, you’ll be expected to speak some French. Always be punctual and greet your associates with a handshake and steady eye contact. Avoid personal discussions at meetings. And bear in mind that some companies have a scent-free policy in the workplace.

Drinking alcohol at business lunches is inappropriate. If you’re invited out to dinner, it’s considered rude to decline without a good reason.

English is widely spoken in most Canadian business circles. You’ll find more French speakers in Quebec. Business hours are usually from 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday, though longer hours are common.

A handshake is the standard business greeting. Businesspeople in Quebec may greet one another with a kiss on each cheek. Business dress is usually semi-formal, but you may have to dress more formally for important meetings. Gifts aren’t expected and may be seen as inappropriate.

Because the Canadian dollar is so strong, expat salaries tend to be higher than in the UK and USA. The highest paid sectors are mining, oil/gas drilling and telecommunications.

See what people responding to our Expat Explorer Survey think about living in Canada.