Looking for a job in Canada can be stressful enough without the added confusion of bad advice. There are countless “rules” about what works in a job search, but many of them are outdated or just plain wrong.
Whether you’re applying through a staffing agency in Calgary, exploring temp work in Alberta, or sending applications directly to employers, it’s time to separate fact from fiction. Here are the most common job hunting myths in Canada and what you should do instead.
Myth #1: “Apply to as many jobs as possible.”
It sounds logical: more applications, more chances. But in reality, sending out dozens of generic resumes hurts your chances.
In today’s job search Canada, most employers use ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). If your resume isn’t tailored to the posting, it won’t make it to a recruiter. Quality applications, targeted to each role, work far better than a “spray and pray” approach.
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Myth #2: “If the job posting is old, it’s already filled.”
Not true. Many Canadian employers keep postings live until the position is officially closed, and some repost jobs to reach more candidates.
If the role matches your skills, apply anyway. Recruiters at a staffing agency Alberta often confirm that positions stay open longer than candidates think.
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Myth #3: “Networking doesn’t matter anymore.”
With so many online applications, many assume networking is outdated. In fact, the opposite is true. A large share of jobs in Canada are still filled through referrals and connections.
Reaching out on LinkedIn, attending events, or building relationships with recruiters at a staffing agency in Calgary can open doors you’d never find on job boards.
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Myth #4: “The most qualified person always gets the job.”
Skills and experience matter, but Canadian employers also value cultural fit, adaptability, and soft skills. Sometimes the candidate with less experience but stronger communication or problem-solving abilities gets the offer.
Your resume and interviews should highlight both hard and soft skills to show you’re the full package.
Myth #5: “Temp work isn’t valuable.”
Too many jobseekers overlook temp work in Calgary or Alberta, thinking it’s just a short-term fix. In reality, temp roles often lead to permanent offers, while giving you a chance to gain Canadian experience, build a network, and show your skills quickly.
For newcomers especially, temp work can be the fastest way to prove your value.
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The truth is, myths make job hunting harder than it needs to be. By focusing on what actually works, tailoring your resume, networking, and being open to temp roles, you’ll stand out in the Canadian market.
At AxcessTMS, we help jobseekers navigate the realities of the job search in Canada, cut through the noise, and connect with real opportunities.
Because finding the right job isn’t about following myths, it’s about having the right strategy and the right support.