As grad season approaches, young Canadians across the country will be entering the workforce for the very first time. While many are worried about the current economic challenges that plague a number of industries, there’s another challenge that is worrying grads – the prevalence of toxic workplace environments.
Recent data from Express Employment Professionals helps paint a better picture of what this looks like. Survey results released in March show that gossiping (44%), unprofessional communication (36%), taking credit for others’ work (25%), bullying (20%), and harassment (18%) are common toxic workplace behaviours that affect employees.
One organization looking to support Canadians in tackling these issues is Career Professionals of Canada, a not-for-profit professional association. This member-run, volunteer-driven organization offers a range of services to support career practitioners, job seekers, and organizations across Canada. These include recognized certificates, employment coaching, resume writing, and interview coaching.
Impacts of a toxic workplace
Michelle Precourt, a member of Career Professionals of Canada, says toxic workplaces can affect the bottom line of a business, and more importantly, employee health.
“The bottom line is that toxic workplace behaviours will result in loss in productivity and have the potential to harm the organization’s reputation,” says Precourt.
“More importantly we are talking about people and the quality of their lives. There is an implicit agreement between the employer and the employee that suggests that in exchange for time, effort and commitment, the employee should expect fair treatment, kindness and to feel valued as a human being.”
Michelle Precourt
As grads look to enter the workforce, there are some warning signs to keep an eye out for.
“The warning signs can be subtle like micro-aggression or playing favourites to blatantly obvious toxic workplace behaviours like bullying and harassment,” adds Precourt. “I don’t believe leaders go into work thinking I am going to be a jerk today but if that is what is happening and there is no accountability for this poor leadership, likely it’s a toxic work environment.”
It’s not all doom and gloom out there in the Canadian workforce, and Michelle says that at the end of the day, you are in control of your career path. Seeking environments where well-being initiatives are a priority can lead to deleted two words professional fulfillment.
Finding a job that suits your values
Many professionals are seeking a job that gives them a healthy work-life balance, and with the right resume and application, you have a better chance of making this possible.
Dorothy Keenan is a Career Advisor, and member of Career Professionals of Canada, and talks about the challenges that job applications may be facing.
“Looking for work has changed dramatically. It can be challenging for new grads to identify where to look for work and how to position yourself against the competition – especially if you didn’t complete a co-op term,” says Keenan.
Dorothy Keenan
She says creating a resume that “reflects your skills, experiences, and personal values” holds tremendous value.
“I have seen amazing success working one-on-one with new graduates. Competition is tough, but it is possible to succeed with the right attitude, persistence and research.”
Dorothy says keeping the following in mind can go a long way:
- Manage your expectations: Expect your job search to take roughly 5 to 6 months. The application process takes time and a lot of patience.
- Research thoroughly: Treat your job search like a research project. Speak with people who are in a similar role and ask questions you have about your career path.
- Build and use LinkedIn strategically: Think of it as “business cards on steroids”.
If you don’t have experience in the field you are pursuing, think outside the box, says Dorothy. For example, a role at McDonald’s shows professionalism and customer service, and landscaping jobs show you can meet deadlines in challenging conditions.
“When you describe these roles, frame them to highlight the values necessary to employers, such as work ethic, adaptability, or leadership potential,” mentions Dorothy.
Seek support from a career professional
If you’re seeking an even bigger advantage as you start your job search, consider seeking support from a career professional today. These professionals can support you in navigating today’s BC employment space, as well as sectors across Canada.
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