Every November, Manitoba highlights Career and Workforce Development Month by encouraging people across the province to explore training, build new skills, and learn more about employment opportunities. For newcomers, this is a great time to focus on the tools that can help you take your next step toward a meaningful career.

Starting a career in Manitoba often begins with a job interview. For many newcomers, the process may feel different from what you are used to. Canadian employers often expect clear communication, confidence, and short examples from your experience. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and more relaxed.

One of the most common questions you will hear is, “Tell me about yourself.” Although it may sound personal, employers are usually looking for three things:

• A short summary of your professional background
• Skills or experience that match the job
• A simple explanation of why you are interested in the role

A clear structure can make this easier. You can organize your answer using:

• Past: your experience and relevant background
• Present: what you are doing now
• Future: why you want this job and what you hope to contribute

Keeping your answer short and focused helps you make a strong first impression.

You may also see different interview styles in Manitoba, such as behavioural, situational, or panel interviews. Behavioural questions often begin with “Tell me about a time when…” and ask you to describe how you handled a real situation. Situational questions ask how you would respond to a future problem. Panel interviews, which involve more than one interviewer, are common in health care, education, and many workplaces. Understanding these formats can help you feel more confident walking into the room.

Clear communication is important in Canadian workplaces, and the same is true in interviews. You do not need perfect English. Employers are listening for your ideas, your experience, and how well you explain your thoughts. Speaking slowly and clearly, using simple sentences, and focusing on one example at a time can make a big difference. It is also acceptable to ask the interviewer to repeat or explain a question. This shows that you want to understand the task.

If English is not your first language, practising your interview skills can help build confidence. You can make this part of your daily routine. Some useful steps include:

• Reviewing common interview questions
• Recording yourself speaking and listening back
• Practising with a classmate or friend
• Learning simple phrases to start your answers
• Preparing examples from your work or volunteer experience

Small, regular practice helps your answers become more natural over time.

At RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration, In Partnership with BMO, students develop communication skills that support them in interviews and at work. Through speaking activities and real-world language practice, students build confidence expressing their ideas clearly. These skills help make interviews feel less intimidating and give newcomers a strong start on their career journey.