Ready2Work
Ready2Work International
Free job search and career advancement workshop series with optional coaching session
Join these free workshops and learn how to find the work you want or how to advance your career. All VCC international students can sign up for 1 or more workshops.
Students who fully participate in workshops can also apply for a 1:1 coaching session. Space is limited for these sessions. More information about coaching is below.
- "This is a helpful program that should not be missed."
- "Definitely every student should take this [program] which will give you a different perspective of what you think you should be doing to find job opportunities."
- "The most practical class I had in VCC so far!"
Ann Marcoux
Ann has over 10 years of talent management and career coaching experience and possesses an expert understanding of the full recruitment cycle. She has coached and educated hundreds of clients on their journey to secure employment, and her unique approach empowers individuals to identify their strengths, develop actionable strategies, and achieve their professional aspirations.
Workshop Information
- Most workshops are online, using Zoom.
- Different topics are offered each semester.
- Workshops are at different times and days to fit your schedule.
- Important: To be eligible for free coaching, stay until the end of each workshop and complete the exit poll.
How to Register
Registration is done on VCC Works, the online job posting and career resources platform.
All students have access to VCC Works. Follow these steps to log in with your VCC ID and password, and register for a workshop:
- Go to > vcc-csm.symplicity.com
- Select ‘Students/Alumni’
- Select ‘Current Students: Single Sign On”
- Follow the prompts to enter your VCC ID and password
- On the VCC Works home page > click ‘Events’ (top menu)*
- Click the name of the workshop to read the full description and other details
- If you are ready to register > click ‘Attend’ (green button on the top right of the workshop description).
Important notes about workshop registration:
- registration closes 5 days before the workshop date.
- all workshop messages will be sent to your VCC email address.
- workshop messages will come from vcc-works@csm.symplicity.ca. Please check your spam/junk folders if you do not receive confirmation messages or workshop Zoom links to your VCC email address.
What can I expect to do in these workshops?
- Practice real Canadian workplace skills (show up on time, answer questions from the facilitator, etc.).
- Speak up in discussions and keep your camera on.
- It’s a safe place to practice — mistakes are okay and help everybody learn!
If You Can’t Attend
- Please email us before the workshop (3 days minimum): careerLAB@vcc.ca
- Think of it like a job — let us know if you can't come.
Workshops Open for Registration
Workshop: Introduction to Canadian Job Search
Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Time: 6:00pm-8:30pm
Location: online (Zoom link will be emailed to your VCC email address 24 hrs before the workshop)
Registration: log in to VCC Works > Events > Select Introduction to Canadian Job Search > Click ‘Attend’
Last day to register: Wed, Sep 17, 2025
What is VCC Works: the online job posting and career services platform. All students have access to VCC Works using single sign on (VCC ID and password).
Open VCC Works: www.vcc-csm.symplicity.com
Workshop description:
Applying for work in Canada can involve more than submitting online applications. Employers also want to know about how you will fit into a team. This workshop will cover:
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- How to find work in Canada
- Understanding how hiring works in Canada
- Getting referrals, in-person job search
- Employment Scams
Who should attend this workshop?
International students who want to better understand how job search and hiring works in Canada. This workshop is a great wat to start your job search!
Workshop: Tips for Successful Resumes & Cover Letters
Date: Thursday, October 2, 2025
Time: 6:00pm-8:30pm
Location: online (Zoom link will be emailed to your VCC email address 24 hrs before the workshop)
Registration: log in to VCC Works > Events > Select Introduction to Canadian Job Search > Click ‘Attend’
Last day to register: Thu, Sep 26, 2025
What is VCC Works: the online job posting and career services platform. All students have access to VCC Works using single sign on (VCC ID and password).
Open VCC Works: www.vcc-csm.symplicity.com
Workshop Description:
Not sure how resumes and cover letters work in Canada? This workshop will help you write job applications that meet the expectations of Canadian employers.
You will learn:
• What type of resume works best for you and the job you want and samples
• How to use AI tools to find the right keywords
• What Canadian employers look for in a cover letter (like soft skills)
• How to format and organize your cover letter
RECOMMENDED:
Before you attend this workshop, it is recommended that you complete the VCC Resume & Cover Letter Moodle course. It is free and open to all VCC students. You complete it on your own time, at your own pace. To access the course, open Moodle and search for "Resume".
It is also recommended to review a draft of your resume with a VCC Learning Centre tutor. This service is free and open to all VCC students. Book appointments online via the Learning Centre website.
Who should attend this workshop:
International students want to learn about resumes and cover letters in Canada, those who need help deciding what skills to put on a resume, or those who are not getting interviews after submitting resumes and cover letters.
Workshop: Ace the Interview
Date: Friday, October 10, 2025
Time: 9:30am-12:00pm
Location: online (Zoom link will be emailed to your VCC email address 24 hrs before the workshop)
Registration: log in to VCC Works > Events > Select Introduction to Canadian Job Search > Click ‘Attend’
Last day to register: Mon, Oct 6, 2025
What is VCC Works: the online job posting and career services platform. All students have access to VCC Works using single sign on (VCC ID and password).
Open VCC Works: www.vcc-csm.symplicity.com
Workshop Description:
Everyone finds job interviews stressful – especially if you are new to the country. This practical workshop will help you feel more confident and prepared for future job interviews. Topics include:
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- What Canadian employers expect in interviews
- Tips to navigate different interview formats
- Common questions and why they are asked
- How to answer difficult questions, including behavioural and illegal questions
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Who should attend this workshop:
International students who are new to job interviews in Canada, or who want a refresher on good interview skills, and those who have not yet had success after job interviews.
Workshop: Lifelong Skills for Career Success in Canada
Date: Friday, October 17, 2025
Time: 6:00pm-8:30pm
Location: online (Zoom link will be emailed to your VCC email address 24 hrs before the workshop)
Registration: log in to VCC Works > Events > Select Introduction to Canadian Job Search > Click ‘Attend’
Last day to register: Mon, Oct 13, 2025
What is VCC Works: the online job posting and career services platform. All students have access to VCC Works using single sign on (VCC ID and password).
Open VCC Works: www.vcc-csm.symplicity.com
Workshop description:
The Canadian labour market is complicated, especially for international students. Job seekers have to navigate changing types of work and adapt to quickly changing workplace cultures and environments. It is already hard to find work and the complexity of the 21st century labour market can make it seem impossible.
However, there are career development skills and practices that can help you stay confident during job search, remain resilient in the face of a changing and complicated labour market, and to help you advance in your career journey. Join this interactive workshop to build your career skills and learn about:
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- How to cope when you are not finding job search success
- How adaptability and resiliency are important employability skills
- How to be ready for unexpected career opportunities
- Using your transferable skills and strengths to secure a job and advance your career
- Making plans for career search action
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Who should attend this workshop?
International students who are not getting success in their job search or those who want to get stronger at managing job exploration and career advancement challenges.
Workshop: Making Difficult Career Decisions
Date: Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Time: 6:00pm-8:30pm
Location: online (Zoom link will be emailed to your VCC email address 24 hrs before the workshop)
Registration: log in to VCC Works > Events > Select Introduction to Canadian Job Search > Click ‘Attend’
Last day to register: Mon, Oct 27, 2025
What is VCC Works: the online job posting and career services platform. All students have access to VCC Works using single sign on (VCC ID and password).
Open VCC Works: www.vcc-csm.symplicity.com
Workshop Description:
Are you unsure about your career path in Canada? You’re not alone. Many international students—whether starting fresh or restarting a professional career—face tough choices when planning their future.
This workshop will help you understand typical career pathways in Canada and how to make informed job and career decisions—even if you don’t have Canadian work experience yet.
In this workshop, you will learn:
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- What typical career paths look like in Canada
- The importance of and skills for doing labour market research
- How to use a simple tool (weighted decision matrix) to compare job options
- How to think about your past experience and future goals when making decisions
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Whether you’re starting your first job or changing careers, this workshop will help you learn how to make career decisions that work for you in Canada.
Who should attend this workshop?
International students who are unsure how to start a new career in Canada and those who need help choosing between different careers or job opportunities.
Workshop: Building Connections to Find Your Career in Canada
Date: Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Time: 6:00pm-8:30pm
Location: online (Zoom link will be emailed to your VCC email address 24 hrs before the workshop)
Registration: log in to VCC Works > Events > Select Introduction to Canadian Job Search > Click ‘Attend’
Last day to register: Mon, Nov 3, 2025
What is VCC Works: the online job posting and career services platform. All students have access to VCC Works using single sign on (VCC ID and password).
Open VCC Works: www.vcc-csm.symplicity.com
Workshop Description:
Many jobs in Canada are not posted online. These are part of the hidden job market—and you can learn how to find them!
This workshop will show you how to use networking, LinkedIn, and informational interviews to find job opportunities that match your program of study and your skills. Even if you have little or no work experience in Canada, you can still use these practical strategies to help you move forward with confidence. You will learn:
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- What the hidden job market is and why it’s important in Canadian job search
- How to build connections with people in your field through networking and informational interviews
- How to use LinkedIn to learn about jobs and meet professionals
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In Canada, who you know matters. Whether you're looking for part-time work now or planning your career after graduation, this workshop will help you take the next step with clarity and confidence.
Who should attend this workshop?
International students ready to look for work in their field of study post-graduation, or those who want learn about building labour market connections in Canada in general.
Workshop: Employability Skills for the Canadian Workplace
Date: Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Time: 6:00pm-8:30pm
Location: online (Zoom link will be emailed to your VCC email address 24 hrs before the workshop)
Registration: log in to VCC Works > Events > Select Introduction to Canadian Job Search > Click ‘Attend’
Last day to register: Mon, Nov 17, 2025
What is VCC Works: the online job posting and career services platform. All students have access to VCC Works using single sign on (VCC ID and password).
Open VCC Works: www.vcc-csm.symplicity.com
Workshop Description:
This workshop is for international students who want to improve their ability to thrive in the Canadian workplace.
What You'll Learn:
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- Canadian Workplace Culture: explore the dimensions of culture that shape professional environments in Canada.
- Importance of Workplace Culture: Discover why understanding workplace culture is crucial for your career success.
- Employer Expectations: Learn about both formal/written and informal/unwritten expectations from employers.
- Communication Norms: Discuss verbal and non-verbal communication norms to effectively interact with colleagues and supervisors.
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Interactive Activities:
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- Teamwork and Professionalism: Complete two self-assessments and discuss these essential soft skills in the context of the Canadian workplace.
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This workshop is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable insights and practical skills that will help you navigate and succeed in your professional journey in Canada. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your employability and build a strong foundation for your career!
Who should attend this workshop?
International students who are new to the Canadian workplace or those who want to learn about communication styles and expectations at work in Canada. Also useful for those wanting to learn more about the employability skills Canadian employers are looking for.
Workshop: Canadian Job Application Essentials
Date: Friday, November 28, 2025
Time: 9:30am-12:00pm
Location: online (Zoom link will be emailed to your VCC email address 24 hrs before the workshop)
Registration: log in to VCC Works > Events > Select Introduction to Canadian Job Search > Click ‘Attend’
Last day to register: Thu, Nov 27, 2025
What is VCC Works: the online job posting and career services platform. All students have access to VCC Works using single sign on (VCC ID and password).
Open VCC Works: www.vcc-csm.symplicity.com
Workshop Description:
Looking for a job in Canada can be hard—especially if you're new to the country. This workshop will help you understand how job applications work in Canada and give you tools to make it easier.
What you’ll learn:
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- What Canadian employers want to see in your job applications
- How to show your skills and experience in a way that fits Canadian job culture
- Where to find job postings online
- How to make your application stand out in online systems (ATS)
- How to spot fake jobs and avoid scams
- How to use LinkedIn, social media, and AI tools the right way
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This session is great for international students who want clear, practical advice to feel more confident and ready to find work in Canada.
Who should attend this workshop?
International students who are unfamiliar with Canadian job application expectations and systems, or those who are new to applying for jobs either in Canada or in their home country.
Workshop: Tips for Successful Resumes & Cover Letters
Date: Friday, December 5, 2025
Time: 9:30am-12:00pm
Location: online (Zoom link will be emailed to your VCC email address 24 hrs before the workshop)
Registration: log in to VCC Works > Events > Select Introduction to Canadian Job Search > Click ‘Attend’
Last day to register: Thu, Dec 4, 2025
What is VCC Works: the online job posting and career services platform. All students have access to VCC Works using single sign on (VCC ID and password).
Open VCC Works: www.vcc-csm.symplicity.com
Workshop Description:
Not sure how resumes and cover letters work in Canada? This workshop will help you write job applications that meet the expectations of Canadian employers.
You will learn:
• What type of resume works best for you and the job you want and samples
• How to use AI tools to find the right keywords
• What Canadian employers look for in a cover letter (like soft skills)
• How to format and organize your cover letter
RECOMMENDED:
Before you attend this workshop, it is recommended that you complete the VCC Resume & Cover Letter Moodle course. It is free and open to all VCC students. You complete it on your own time, at your own pace. To access the course, open Moodle and search for "Resume".
It is also recommended to review a draft of your resume with a VCC Learning Centre tutor. This service is free and open to all VCC students. Book appointments online via the Learning Centre website.
Who should attend this workshop:
International students want to learn about resumes and cover letters in Canada, those who need help deciding what skills to put on a resume, or those who are not getting interviews after submitting resumes and cover letters.
Coaching Sessions - Take the next step in your job search!
If you attend a Ready2Work International workshop, you can book a free one-on-one coaching session with the workshop facilitator! Take advantage of these free coaching sessions to help you feel more confident in your Canadian job search.
Why book a coaching session?
This is your chance to get personal guidance on your job search questions. You can ask questions like:
- Why are employers not responding to my job applications?
- How do I make my resume stand out?
- What do employers in my new field look for?
- How can I research companies that are hiring?
- How do I make career choices that fit my goals?
The facilitator may also connect you with other helpful services at VCC to help with things like:
- Resume & cover letter formatting and language: Learning Centre Tutors
- Practice interview skills: Learning Centre Tutors
- Managing stress and anxiety about job search: VCC Counselling Services
Tip: If you want to talk about your resume, try to complete the free Resume & Cover Letter Moodle course first. That way, your coach can give you even better feedback! The course is open to all VCC students.
Please note: Coaching is not counselling. If you are feeling overwhelmed or anxious about work or your future, VCC Counselling Services is available to support you.
How to Book a Coaching Session
If you are eligible, you’ll get an email from careerLAB@vcc.ca with instructions to sign up. Make sure to check your inbox!
Important: Your Commitment
Coaching sessions are limited, so your appointment is a commitment.If you need to cancel, please tell us at least 5 business days before your appointment.
If you cancel too late or don’t show up, you won’t be able to book another session unless you attend another Ready2Work workshop.We understand life happens—just let us know in advance if your plans change.
Overall Coaching Schedule - for Reference only
This is the overall coaching appointment schedule for Fall 2025. If you attended a Ready2Work International workshop until the end and answered the attendance poll, you will be emailed instructions on how to view updated appointment availability in VCC Works. This schedule is for your general reference only.
All coaching appointments are online. All appointments are 50-minutes long.
| Coaching Appointment date | Time |
| Thursday, October 9, 2025 | 5-5:50pm |
| 6-6:50pm | |
| 7-7:50pm | |
| 8-8:50pm | |
| Friday, October 24, 2025 | 9-9:50am |
| 10-10:50am | |
| 11-11:50am | |
|
Friday, October 31, 2025 Deadline to sign up: Oct 26 |
9:30-10:20am |
| 10:30-11:20am | |
| 11:30am-12:20pm | |
| 12:30-1:20pm | |
|
Tuesday, November 25, 2025 Deadline to sign up: Nov 20 |
5-5:50pm |
| 6-6:50pm | |
| 7-7:50pm | |
| 8-8:50pm | |
|
Friday, December 5, 2025 Deadline to sign up: Nov 30 |
1-1:50pm |
| 2-2:50pm | |
| 3-3:50pm | |
|
Friday, December 12, 2025 Deadline to sign up: Dec 7 |
9:30-10:20am |
| 10:30-11:20am | |
| 11:30am-12:20pm | |
| 12:30-1:20pm |