Looking for a Job

If you are seeking employment, Service Canada can provide you with the information you need to prepare yourself for the job market. Here is a quick list of services that will help you in your search for employment.

1. Apply for Employment Insurance Regular Benefits

Employment Insurance (EI) provides Regular Benefits to individuals who lose their jobs through no fault of their own (for example, due to shortage of work, seasonal or mass lay-offs) and are available for and able to work, but can't find a job.

You can apply for EI benefits on-line or in person at a Service Canada Centre. You should apply as soon as you stop working, even if you receive or will receive money when you become unemployed.

If you wait more than 4 weeks after your last day of work to submit your claim for benefits, you risk not receiving all of the benefits for which you may be eligible.

2. Create a Resume and Cover Letter

The Resume Builder allows you to save up to five professional looking resumes with a choice of layouts, resume writing tips, and sample resumes which are available to guide you.

3. Begin the Job Search

For general information about your job search, visit JobBank.gc.ca.

Search the Job Bank for jobs across Canada that are posted daily.  If you are a student, you may want to search the Student Job Bank.

You may also use Job Match to advertise your skills to employers in Service Canada’s Job Bank and receive a list of matching jobs.

Job Alert provides a list, by e-mail, of jobs that match your search criteria.

Finally, the Career Navigator allows you to explore your career options and provides information on wages, number of jobs available and employment prospects to help you make an informed career decision.

4. Apply for Service Canada Employment Programs and Services

The Skills Development program provides a negotiated amount of financial support for skills training to Employment Insurance eligible individuals.

You must complete the Skills Development application form to make your request for assistance under the Skills Development Program. As part of the application process, it will be necessary for the applicant to receive an employment assessment and develop a Return to Work Action Plan with a case manager. Please contact your Service Canada Centre for information on where you can receive this service.

The Self Employment program provides individuals who are eligible for Employment Insurance with income and entrepreneurial support while they develop and implement their business plan. Unemployed Employment Insurance eligible individuals may complete the Self-Employment application form and/or apply at the nearest Service Canada Centre.

5. Apply for Other Employment Programs and Services

You may be eligible for other programs and services to help you during this period. Visit the Benefits Finder on the Service Canada Training and Careers Web site for a list of federal and provincial or territorial government benefits you may be eligible for.

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