Working in Quebec: How to Prepare for Your Job Search Before You Arrive

Aurelie Massard
2 days ago
4 min read

Finding a job in Quebec is a key step toward a successful immigration experience. But contrary to what many people think, the job search doesn’t begin upon arrival… but well before you leave.

Proper preparation can make all the difference between:

finding a job quickly, or spending several months searching.

In this article, discover how to effectively prepare for your job search in Quebec before you even set foot there.

1. Understanding the Job Market in Quebec

Before applying, it’s essential to understand how the Quebec job market works.

Some important realities:

certain sectors are in high demand (healthcare, IT, construction, services…)
local experience is often valued
employers’ expectations may differ from those in your home country
There is a significant hidden job market where you can find your next job

Between 50% and 80% of available positions are never publicly advertised. Companies often prefer to rely on their networks, promote from within, or accept unsolicited applications—it’s faster, cheaper, and involves less risk.

This “hidden job market” is like the submerged part of the employment iceberg. And the good news is: it’s entirely accessible, provided you change your approach.

How do you tap into it?

The first step is to activate your network. Next, don’t be afraid to send unsolicited applications. SMEs account for 90% of jobs in Quebec and many hire without ever posting a job opening. A well-targeted resume, sent at the right time, can make all the difference.

On LinkedIn, don’t just apply—follow the companies that interest you, their executives, and their news. Sometimes, a position takes shape before it even officially exists.

You can also reach out to recruitment agencies or headhunters. They’re often one step ahead of market needs, including those that haven’t been announced yet.

Finally, keep an eye on economic news. A rapidly expanding company, a new contract, a new office opening… these are all signs that hiring is on the horizon. Tools like ICRIQ can help you identify these growing companies. The hospitality sector, for example, is particularly fond of this discreet recruitment method—a lead not to be overlooked if you work in this field.

General practical advice: Check job postings now to identify the profiles being sought.

2. Adapting Your Resume to the Quebec Format

It’s a very common mistake: sending a resume that isn’t adapted.

In Quebec:

✔ Clear, concise resume (1 to 2 pages)

✔ No photo

✔ Professional information highlighted

✔ Concrete skills and results

Tip: Use keywords found in job postings.

I will soon be publishing a new article on this topic... Stay tuned!

3. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile

Today, LinkedIn is an essential tool for finding a job in Quebec.

Things to do before you arrive :

update your profile
mention your plans to move to Quebec
add local recruiters and professionals
post or engage to boost your visibility

Some candidates land interviews before they’ve even set foot in Canada… thanks to LinkedIn.

4. Build your professional network (key #1 in Quebec)

In Quebec, networking is essential.

Many opportunities come through your network rather than through traditional applications.

How to network remotely?

Stay in touch with your current network.
Connect with professionals on LinkedIn
Participate in virtual events
Join expat groups

Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for informal meetups (“virtual coffee breaks”).

5. Start applying before you arrive

Yes, it is possible (and recommended) to apply before you arrive.

This allows you to:

✔ test your profile in the job market

✔ understand employers’ expectations

✔ secure remote interviews

Important : Specify your arrival date and your status (work permit, residency, etc.)

6. Prepare for job interviews

Interviews in Quebec may differ from what you’re used to.

Expect:

behavioral questions
role-playing scenarios
Pay special attention to your soft skills.

When it comes to job hunting, people often think first of the resume, technical skills, and degrees. But there’s one element that’s sometimes underestimated—and yet makes all the difference in the eyes of recruiters: soft skills.

In practical terms, what does this mean? It refers to the sum of your personal qualities, behaviors, and attitudes—also known as soft skills—as they manifest in a professional setting. How you communicate, how you react under pressure, how you fit into a team… all of this constitutes your soft skills.

It complements two other essential dimensions: knowledge (your expertise) and technical skills (your technical competencies). But while the latter can be learned from books or training, soft skills reveal themselves in real life—in how you adapt to situations, how you interact with others, and how you contribute to the dynamics of a work environment. And that is precisely why we will pay special attention to it.

Practical tip: Prepare concrete examples of your experiences (using the STAR method, for example).

7. Avoid Common Mistakes

Here are the most common mistakes :

waiting until you’re on-site to get started
sending the same resume everywhere
neglecting networking
underestimating deadlines

Proper preparation helps you avoid these pitfalls.

Conclusion : Plan ahead to succeed in your job search in Quebec!

Finding a job in Quebec depends not only on your qualifications, but above all on your preparation. By starting the process before you leave, you significantly increase your chances of success.