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Words to Know

Apprenticeship

An on-the-job training period required by most trades. As an apprentice you work with an expert in your trade to learn your job while you prepare for licensing or certification. The length of an apprenticeship varies by trade.

Apprenticeship Incentive Grant

A taxable cash grant for registered apprentices in designated Red Seal trades.

Association of Translators and Interpreters of Ontario (ATIO)

Is the only organization in Ontario that can give someone the title of "certified translator." ATIO certified translators agree to a Code of Ethics, which includes confidentiality of client information. The Province of Ontario granted a reserved title for certified members of ATIO through the Association of Translators and Interpreters Act.

Bridge Training Program

Programs that can help you assess your education and skills, get practical training or improve your language skills so that you can work in your field.

Canadian Work Experience

On-the-job experience you have had in a Canadian workplace. This experience shows that you are familiar with the customs and procedures of a Canadian workplace and (in most cases) that you have worked in English and/or French. Some employers also consider volunteer positions and jobs not in your field as Canadian work experience.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Provides an overview of your experience, education and other qualifications. It will include your volunteer work, hobbies and extracurricular activities. It is often longer than a résumé in Canada, which is generally, two pages long.

Employment Insurance (EI)

Temporary financial assistance that you may be eligible for while you look for work or upgrade your skills.

Employment Standards Act (ESA)

A law that sets out the minimum employment standards that employers and employees must follow.

English as a Second Language (ESL)/English as a Foreign Language (EFL)

English language programs that are designed for specific skill levels, groups of learners and purposes.

Enhanced Language Training (ELT)

Programs that provide job-specific, advanced level English training to adults. ELT is particularly useful for internationally trained individuals.

French as a Second Language (FSL)

French language programs that are designed for specific skill levels, groups of learners and purposes.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

A test of English that covers listening, reading, writing and speaking. IELTS is recognized by universities and employers in many countries. It is also recognized by some professional bodies, immigration authorities and other government agencies.

Information interview

An interview with someone in a particular industry to find out more about careers and the job market. It is not a job interview. The goal is to get information or advice that can help you achieve your career goals.

International credentials assessment

The process of finding Canadian equivalency for educational or occupational credentials.

Internship

An opportunity to work for a company or organization you for a temporary period. This can help you gain experience and the costs to employers are usually lower. Sometimes internships are paid or there may be an honorarium.

Language Assessment Centre

Where you go to take a free LINC placement test.

Language Instruction For Newcomers To Canada (LINC)

An ESL program offered at no cost to eligible adult learners by the Government of Canada.

Labour market information

Statistics on rates of employment, wages, popular sectors in the work force, jobs in demand, and speculation on future growth.

Networking

Building a network of people to support you during your job search.

Occupation-Specific Language Training (OSLT)

Programs that help newcomers learn the job-specific vocabulary they need to work in their field. OSLT is particularly useful for internationally-trained individuals. Some programs, such as those run by Colleges Ontario, also provide information about the soft skills needed at Canadian workplaces.

Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)

A student loan program and the main source of financial aid for post-secondary education in Ontario.

Professional development

Taking courses or doing volunteer work that is related to your career goals. If you are already employed, sometimes your employer may pay for the training or give you time off to attend classes.

Professional Immigrant Networks (PINs)

Groups run by and for internationally trained individuals that cover a wide range of sectors.

Professional and trade associations

Groups for people in a particular trade or profession. Joining one of these groups may give you opportunities to network, access job postings, promote your services and share best practices.

Regulated and unregulated professions

For some professions and trades you need a licence before you can do the work.

Regulatory and licensing bodies

Organizations that control access to a specific profession or trade. These bodies may grant licences and certificates or organize training and examinations. Members usually have to pay dues.

Social media

Social networking websites and tools like LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and blogs.

Soft skills

Workplace communication skills, such as problem solving, attitudes and behaviours. This refers to how well you “fit” into a company.

Survival job

A job that provides immediate income.

Temporary job

A job that you get through an employment agency, placement agency or temporary agency ("temp agency").

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

A test of English that covers reading, listening, speaking and writing. You often have to write this test before you go to a post-secondary institution.

Test of English for International Communication (TOIEC)

A test of English that demonstrates your ability to use English in the workplace.

Volunteer

Unpaid work that can help you gain work experience and build your networks. Often, volunteer positions are with non-profit or charity organizations.

Workers’ Compensation

Benefits to workers who have a work-related injury or illness.

Workforce Planning Board

Generally a non-profit, community-based organization that helps find and develop solutions to local labour market needs.