Depending on the type of job you have, the customs and culture of your workplace will vary. One thing you can be sure of, is that it is always a good idea to present yourself as professional and hard working. Want to be sure you understand your workplace, and how you fit in? Here are some of the behaviours, attitudes, and values that you can expect to find in your Saint John Region workplace.
Rules of the workplace
As a newcomer to Canada, there are lots of different kinds of rules that you should be aware of. Some you can learn in advance, but others you tend to learn on the job.
Unwritten rules
There are certain ways of behaving in a Canadian workplace that people just follow, without needing to be told. For example, everyone says “good morning” to coworkers when they arrive in the morning. When you get onto an elevator, everyone faces the doors, and looks straight ahead—never at each other. And, if you see a closed door to an office, you should knock on the door rather than simply going in.
Written rules
These are often policies and procedures written on paper by a company or organization. Company rules help make and keep good working conditions. They help everyone understand their work responsibilities. These are usually different for each workplace. For example, rules about sick leave and employee benefits.
Government rules
In Canada, both the Parliament of Canada and the Provincial Legislature can make labour laws. These are the kinds of rules that are binding or required and everyone must follow.
Time
In the Canadian workplace, time matters a lot. For example, it’s important to get to work on time—and this will affect your performance. In many jobs, workers must meet deadlines or production goals. Always be punctual, and make sure you are meeting time expectations.
Space
In Canadian culture, the unwritten rule for physical space between people is two arms’ length. There are exceptions for family and close personal friends. However, at work, it is important to be professional and stick to workplace expectations.
Shaking hands
In some countries, people shake hands softly. In Canada, people give a firm handshake. It is professional in the work environment and respectful in personal life when meeting someone especially for the first time.
Eye contact
In some countries, not using eye contact can be a sign of respect to someone in authority. Usually in Canada, looking someone in the eye, (or close to their eyes), makes them feel that they can trust you.
Being quiet
Sometimes, being quiet is a way to show that you are listening to others when they are speaking with you. Just remember that adding your own ideas and thoughts shows that you want to contribute.
Nod only if you understand
In some countries, nodding your head is a sign of respect—even if you do not understand. In Canada, supervisors and managers want to know when you don’t understand. If you think you do understand, try to repeat what you heard using your own words. If you don’t understand, ask the person to show you what they are trying to explain to you.
Teamwork
In many countries, teamwork is very important. In Canada, teamwork is also very important. The success of the team also means success for the individual.
Canadian values in the workplace
Canadians want to achieve personal success. They value working hard for a high standard of living and good quality of life. Employers usually want their employees to complete tasks by themselves with little supervision, to take initiative, and to make decisions on their own. However, employers also expect their employees to be flexible, and sometimes will want them to cooperate and work together in a team environment.
Most Canadian companies operate in a top-down system (or hierarchy), and employees must follow their supervisor's directions. When making decisions, asking for information, or dealing with problems, you will be expected to talk to the right person within your company based on their level of authority.