Albert FudziProject Manager| Const-Ent Ghana LtdCalgary, Alberta, Canada
I have been in Canada (Calgary) for a year now. I have been trying to enter the construction industry as a Project Manager. I have over 10 years in the industry but I can't seem to get my foot in. I have joined local chapters and worked with mentors. I have been to network events cold emailing, and talking to people on LinkedIn. I am willing to start with a lower position such as a Coordinator to better understand how the industry works. But that is still not yielding the expected outcome. I am looking for insights.
Unfortunately, you are running head long into a couple of challenges:
1. More supply than demand of talent for PM roles.
2. A lack of "local" experience. This is what recruiters or hiring managers might tell you when they are unwilling to take a chance on someone or have a preferred candidate already in mind.
Given this, your best bet will be to keep networking as much as you can, and try to get someone to give you a "warm" introduction to a hiring manager or recruiter.
You should also be flexible about location - you may need to look at relocating to a different part of Canada as a large percentage of the roles in Calgary are likely to be oil/gas-related.
Rami Kaibni - do you have anything you might add to help Albert?
Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten AssociatesNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
Albert, you’re genuinely on the right track, and Kiron’s advice is spot on. When I immigrated to Canada in 2011, I also had nearly a decade of solid experience, yet it still took me over a year to secure a job. And back then, the market was more favorable than it is now, given today’s higher interest rates and a 6.8% unemployment rate.
I completely agree with Kiron’s point. Many employers here are hesitant to take a chance on newcomers and insist on Canadian experience as if it’s some kind of specialized skill where in reality it is not.
Coming from a similar professional background as you, my advice is to stay persistent: keep applying for jobs and continue volunteering. You never know when a volunteer activity might lead to an unexpected opportunity. Wishing you the best of luck!
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1 reply by Albert Fudzi
Dec 09, 2024 11:12 AM
Albert Fudzi
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Thank you for the encouragement. I will continue to pursue as advised.
Albert FudziProject Manager| Const-Ent Ghana LtdCalgary, Alberta, Canada
Dec 07, 2024 2:09 PM
Replying to Rami Kaibni
...
Albert, you’re genuinely on the right track, and Kiron’s advice is spot on. When I immigrated to Canada in 2011, I also had nearly a decade of solid experience, yet it still took me over a year to secure a job. And back then, the market was more favorable than it is now, given today’s higher interest rates and a 6.8% unemployment rate.
I completely agree with Kiron’s point. Many employers here are hesitant to take a chance on newcomers and insist on Canadian experience as if it’s some kind of specialized skill where in reality it is not.
Coming from a similar professional background as you, my advice is to stay persistent: keep applying for jobs and continue volunteering. You never know when a volunteer activity might lead to an unexpected opportunity. Wishing you the best of luck!
Thank you for the encouragement. I will continue to pursue as advised. Saving Changes...
Albert FudziProject Manager| Const-Ent Ghana LtdCalgary, Alberta, Canada
Dec 07, 2024 7:32 AM
Replying to Kiron Bondale
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Albert -
Unfortunately, you are running head long into a couple of challenges:
1. More supply than demand of talent for PM roles.
2. A lack of "local" experience. This is what recruiters or hiring managers might tell you when they are unwilling to take a chance on someone or have a preferred candidate already in mind.
Given this, your best bet will be to keep networking as much as you can, and try to get someone to give you a "warm" introduction to a hiring manager or recruiter.
You should also be flexible about location - you may need to look at relocating to a different part of Canada as a large percentage of the roles in Calgary are likely to be oil/gas-related.
Rami Kaibni - do you have anything you might add to help Albert?
Kiron
Thank you. I will continue to network. Saving Changes...
Erica HawkinsProject Management ProfessionalChicago, IL, United States
Albert, I appreciate your post. As someone who has entry level project management experience and work experience in project coordinator roles, I always find it difficult to gain valuable experience. I agree with Kiron that there is a lot of competition for a coveted project manager position, and project coordinator roles are highly sought after as well.
There are many opportunities to work on a temporary basis in construction. I have had the opportunity to work in construction as a contractor on an assignment. While a lot of people might strive for permanent work, a contractor role could give you the experience that you desire. Saving Changes...
Albert, I wish you all the best. I experienced a similar situation in Singapore back in 2008. Looking back now, I realize that I should have focused more on networking. Saving Changes...
Albert, this issue is unfortunately becoming normal. Look for International organizations and global industries. These organizations prefer candidates that have your experience. Saving Changes...
How can a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification be utilized by an architect to effectively manage and deliver different types of projects, such as residential, commercial, or infrastructure development projects? Saving Changes...
What specific skills or knowledge from the PMP certification can an architect apply to manage projects with unique requirements, such as sustainable design, historic preservation, or complex construction techniques? Saving Changes...
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