Career & Culture Wednesdays: Canadian CV Checklist to Land You Interviews

Career Corner

Canadian CV Checklist to Land You Interviews

Reno Perry recently shared a CV from one of his clients that was landing 2-3 interviews per week. According to him, the secret comes down to a few simple strategies:

1. Avoid fluff in the executive summary
Many people fill their executive summaries with adjectives and vague promises. Instead, this CV focused on measurable accomplishments directly related to the job.

A strong executive summary includes:

• Years of experience: 15 years in [industry name]

• Key achievements: Led 40 enterprise-level projects with a [percentage] success rate

• Recognitions & impact: Recognized for [achievement], which resulted in [measurable outcome]

2. Keep your format simple
Avoid cluttered designs that make a recruiter’s eyes jump around the page. Instead, guide their focus downward, keeping your most recent experience at the top for easy scanning.

3. Write bullet points with measurable results
Each bullet should start with strong action verbs like “managed” or “delivered” and clearly state the impact of your work.

For example:

✅ Reduced approval cycles by 30%, instead of ❌ Helped improve approval efficiency

Canadian City Highlight

Is Winnipeg the Right Place to Call Home?

Choosing where to lay your roots in Canada is a big decision. Factors like job opportunities, lifestyle, and cost of living all play a role. Let’s break down what Winnipeg has to offer.

The cost of living in Winnipeg is lower than in most major Canadian cities
Winnipeg boasts a lower cost of living compared to most large urban centers in Canada. Housing is particularly affordable, making homeownership a realistic goal for many newcomers. If you’re looking to stretch your budget, this city is a great option.

Winnipeg offers growing job opportunities in key industries
Industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare provide steady employment opportunities. Plus, Manitoba’s Provincial Nominee Program supports immigrants in finding work and settling in the region.

Newcomers in Winnipeg have access to extensive support services
The city offers a wide range of resources to help immigrants integrate smoothly. From settlement programs to language training, Winnipeg is committed to supporting newcomers in their transition.

Winnipeg is a friendly and welcoming community
Known for its strong sense of community, Winnipeg offers a slower pace of life that’s perfect for families and individuals seeking a supportive environment. It’s a city where people look out for one another.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Winnipeg’s access to nature
If you enjoy outdoor activities, Winnipeg won’t disappoint. Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, it offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing, making it ideal for nature lovers.

Things to Do Around You

In Winnipeg, Freeze Frame International Film Festival for Kids of All Ages brings a week of inspiring films and hands-on workshops for young cinephiles. Enjoy international screenings, animation sessions, and media literacy activities in a multilingual, multicultural setting. March 9–15, 2025, at Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain.

In Gimli, just an hour north of Winnipeg, the Gimli Ice Festival brings a weekend of frosty fun with ice-themed events, entertainment, and competitions for all ages. Enjoy winter activities by the lake and embrace the season! March 7–9, 2025, at various venues in Gimli.

In Toronto, Disney’s Encanto in Concert brings the magic of the Madrigal family to life with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra performing the award-winning score. Experience the beloved film on the big screen with live music at Roy Thomson Hall. March 8–9, 2025.

In Calgary, the Icelandic Carnival brings Viking reenactments, crafts, and traditional Icelandic celebrations like Bolludagur, Sprengidagur, and Öskudagur. Enjoy cultural performances and family-friendly activities at the Scandinavian Centre. March 8, 2025

In Coquitlam, 30 minutes from Vancouver, Festival du Bois celebrates French Canadian and Métis culture with live music, dance, workshops, and traditional experiences. Enjoy Acadian tunes, crankies, contra dancing, and the Métis Village Experience. March 7-9, 2025, at Mackin Park.

Newcomer-friendly job listings

• Software Engineer, Richmond Hill, ON

• Accounting Bookkeeper, Etobicoke, ON

• Truck Driver, Edmonton, AB

• Construction Labourer, Montréal, QC

• Marketing Manager, Jacksons Point, ON

• Family Physician, Sherwood Park, AB

• Transportation Manager, Delta, BC

• Office Manager, Brampton, ON

• Marine Transportation Operations Manager, St. John's, NL

• Plumber, Prince George, BC