Canadian "workplace culture"
In order to get a job you must convince the employer that you can fit into the company. This is one reason employers want to hire people with good English skills and with Canadian work experience. Working as a volunteer or in a job different than your field can demonstrate that you are familiar with "the Canadian way."
Compared to your original country you will find differences in how business and work is done in Canada. It is up to you to find out how your work patterns may be different. For example, Canadian are very strict about time. The workday starts exactly at the specified time, and should end at the specified time. Following the rules of work hours is a worker's responsibility.
Whether you have a question about social customs or office policies, if you are unsure people ordinarily won't mind if you politely ask what practice to follow.
How workers are paid
People are usually paid every two weeks. Your employer must make deductions (subtract) from your paycheque for income tax, Employment Insurance, government pension and possibly other things such as union dues and company health benefits.
For example, Manitoba's minimum wage is $9 per hour. When you are hired at $9 per hour that is your “gross pay.” The amount on your paycheque after deductions is your “net pay.”
Worker rights
Manitoba has laws that protect workers. For example, all workers are allowed to join a union, and there are reasonable limits on scheduled hours of work.
Manitoba has an employment standards law to promote fairness in the workplace. This law sets rules for both the employer and the employee. The Manitoba government
Employment Standards Branch investigates when someone complains that an employer is not following employment standards.
Workplace health
Manitoba has laws and agencies to ensure workplaces are safe and healthy.
Manitoba Federation of Labour Occupational Health Centre has multi-language classes on health and safety. It also has doctors to see injured workers. The centre's website has information on health and safety.
This 80-page booklet explains all aspects of working in Canada including finding a job, workplace rules, interacting with coworkers, workplace culture and understanding paycheques.
