Despite global volatility the Canadian economy remains one of the strongest in the world.  There are even positive signs of growth in some industry sectors across Canada. Most businesses and consumers however remain cautiously optimistic moving forward into 2012.

This uncertain economy is also seeing new dynamics shaping businesses decisions.  No-where is this more evident than in how businesses have adjusted their expectations when hiring.  Recruiting and retaining talent remains as difficult and competitive as ever. Organizations however have become more diligent to mitigate risk in this economy and look for more value than ever when considering hiring a new employee.

A key resource to this value driver are the thousands and thousands of qualified immigrant professionals who remain under-employed or unemployed in Canada. This vast untapped, well-educated, hard-working talent pool right sits right in-front our eyes. 

Consider these four things to expand your horizons when you’re looking for talent and tremendous value in your next hire.

First: The Canadian Government has already acted as a first level HR Screen for your business

Our tax dollars have set up rigid screening criteria for new immigrants to enter Canada. Professional and Skilled workers entering Canada must credibly prove their education and experience. Furthermore, in many countries the education standards and competition helps to create top-level international students. These bright minds are ready and hungry to become a part Canada’s international growth and support your business.

Secondly: Your business can benefit from the cultural differences in work ethic.

Most immigrants do not come from a country where 9-5 is the norm. We have assisted many new immigrants that have worked 50-60-70 hours a week as routine in their country. This imported work effort arrives with them to Canada and is further fueled by their pride not to disappoint their new employer or their family here and in their homeland.

Third: Immigrants are moderate in their expectations for employment and compensation

The majority of professional immigrants under-market and under-value themselves. They simply want a chance to prove they can do the job. Making a salary commensurate to their value is secondary to gaining working in their field. This represents a great opportunity for many small to med-size companies to add MBA’s, PHD’s to their corporate profile at a fraction of the cost. Tell that to your share-holders!

Fourth: Globalization will demand diversity for business growth AND should be reflected in your HR strategy

Business is driving towards a 24/7 service model providing goods and services to customers around the globe and to your diverse clients groups locally. Driving these interactions are professionals with various backgrounds and cultural diversity.  

Adding talent and diversity can bring growth and excitement to your current staff. Your company will also have ability to communicate with customers, suppliers and partners in different languages and immediately increase your capacity to reach new markets and position your brand.

Successful and shrewd businesses are already selling more and more each year to global customers. There is no greater consumer group coming to Canada every year in the hundreds of thousands ready to do business with companies that understand their needs. 

Minto Roy is a career management professional and radio personality. Minto brings more than a decade of experience in career management and has worked with thousands of clients advising them on their career search and career plans. Supporting the development of business professionals at all levels of the organization with his unique pragmatic approach to “revolutionizing the world of work”. To learn more connect with him on Twitter, or LinkedIn.