In today’s globalized world, diversity in the workplace is not just a bonus, it’s a necessity. Hiring internationally trained workers (ITWs) can offer a wealth of benefits to businesses. ITWs are individuals with diverse backgrounds, including immigrants, refugees, international students, and Canadians who have gained skills or worked overseas. If your business is struggling to fill positions locally, recruiting and hiring ITWs might be the solution.
The Advantages of Hiring Internationally Trained Workers
ITWs come with a range of benefits that can boost the competitive edge of your business:
Qualified and Skilled: ITWs possess skills, talents, and qualifications that can enhance your business productivity. They are often highly trained in their fields and can help to fill vacancies with the right expertise.
Diversity and Innovation: A diverse workforce can foster innovation and creativity. ITWs often bring a fresh perspective to problem-solving, bringing unique insights derived from their different cultural backgrounds and experiences.
Global Reach: ITWs often speak multiple languages and have rich cultural experiences, making them valuable assets when your business is looking to connect with new markets, customers, and employees worldwide.
Hiring Workers in B.C.
The first step is to look for potential employees within British Columbia. Local workers, immigrants, refugees, international students, and temporary foreign workers could be ready and willing to join your team. You can use WorkBC’s job board to post jobs and find talent. Immigrant settlement agencies and the Immigrant Employment Council of BC also provide services to connect employers with job seekers.
Hiring Workers from Overseas
Hiring workers from overseas can be a more complex process, involving navigating federal or provincial/territorial immigration programs. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website provides information about different immigration programs, processes, and timelines. The Immigrant Employment Council of BC (IECBC) offers employer tools and resources to assist in hiring overseas.
Evaluating Resumes and Credentials
When considering ITWs, it’s essential to assess their resumes and credentials accurately. ITWs often hold certificates, diplomas, and degrees from their home countries, many of which are equivalent to Canadian qualifications. The British Columbia Institute of Technology’s International Credential Evaluation Service, IRCC: Employers Roadmap, and IECBC’s Resume Review Centre are valuable resources for evaluating foreign credentials.
Temporary Foreign Worker Program
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) allows employers to hire foreign workers temporarily to fill labour and skill shortages. Most employers need to apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to confirm that no Canadian workers are available for the job. Also, employers in B.C. hiring foreign workers must register with the provincial government.
International Mobility Program
The International Mobility Program (IMP) provides a route to hire foreign workers temporarily without needing an LMIA. To hire a worker through the IMP, most employers must submit an offer of employment form through the employer portal and pay a fee. Certain exemptions apply.
Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot
The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) provides skilled refugees with access to existing permanent residence pathways. Employers can connect with designated NGO partners to identify suitable EMPP candidates abroad with the necessary skills and experience.
The EMPP is just one way that B.C. is leveraging the BC Provincial Nominee Program to bring in ITWs.
As more businesses recognize the value of a diverse workforce, hiring ITWs is becoming an increasingly viable strategy. With a bit of guidance and the right resources, you can tap into this invaluable pool of talent and help your business thrive.
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