Arshdeep's Journey to Accounting

Hi, my name is Arshdeep. Before moving to Canada, I had three years of work experience as an Engineering Assistant and three years as an Administrative Assistant from my country of origin but was unable to find a job upon landing in BC. I had many barriers to employment – lack of English language skills, Canadian qualifications, Canadian work experience, lack of resume writing, interview skills, and networking skills.

In order to gain Canadian work experience, I volunteered as an admin assistant for three years. During the same period, I got my Grade 12 Graduation, which allowed me to take an Accounting course. I came to Surrey-Newton WorkBC Centre a few months before I completed the Accounting course. Since I had no relevant work history; I felt that I was stepping into unfamiliar territory and needed help with job search skills.

I was enrolled for the “Find Jobs or Work Experience Workshop” as well as the “Basic Life Skills Workshop”. After completing the workshops, I was referred to the “Job Search” service at WorkBC Centre. Together with the Job Coach’s assistance, I looked at employer websites and company profiles. Based on available jobs, the resume was re-targeted and I was given guidance on how to set up an online job search profile. To build my confidence for job interviews, the Job Coach prepared a framework for marketing my strengths and helped me practice my introduction statements.

In addition, the Job Coach regularly provided information on upcoming hiring fairs and periodically sent relevant job postings. The Job Coach also introduced me to employers in his network and sent applications on my behalf.

I found employment as an accounting clerk in an accounting firm that is supportive and recognizes my potential while acknowledging the fact that I am new in the field. I am very happy about my new job.