Indigenous Students

Employment Information for Indigenous Students

Employers are looking to hire Indigenous graduates. This not only brings diversity and representation into the workforce but also helps employers integrate Indigenous perspectives into their practices.

Remember, the Career & Student Success Advisors are here to help you reach your academic and career goals - set up a meeting here. We will support you in highlighting your strengths, navigating the job search process and will guide you through any barriers to success.

  • Ask anyone you know who works there. Ask about the diversity of the staff, is diversity addressed?
  • Go to the employer's website. Look for inclusive language. Have they organized any diversity initiatives?
  • Do they invite applicants from diverse backgrounds (Indigenous people, racialized people, persons with disabilities, etc)? If they do, it's probably an indication that they are trying to be inclusive.
  • Check the company's policies - do they have a diversity policy or statement? Is diversity or inclusivity noted in their mission?
  • Check to see if they're listed as a Diverse Employer at canadastop100.com/diversity. If they are not, it doesn't mean that they don't care or are not interested - maybe they're number 101!
  • As discussed in the "Should You Disclose Aboriginal Status To Potential Employers?" article, there are many benefits to disclosing, including scholarships, bursaries, and unique job opportunities specifically for Indigenous peoples. Some people may not be comfortable disclosing, perhaps due to previous negative experiences or racism. It is entirely up to you.
  • It is illegal for an employer (or potential employer) to ask about your ethnicity, race, religion, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, among others. It is your choice to disclose your identity, but it is not mandatory for you to do so.
  • If you decide to self-identify, there are many ways to do so such as, listing Indigenous organizations that you have been involved with on your resume, or talking about the importance of diversity to you in the interview or your cover letter. "The Right Way to Identify Yourself as a Diversity Hire" article has some good points to consider.
  • If you would like to discuss this further, feel free to contact a Career & Student Success Advisor, or the Indigenous Education & Engagement at Humber.
  • Almost everyone gets nervous before an interview, it's a typical reaction! To help ease your nerves, create strategies that will help you cope - these may include having a good night's sleep; keeping to your regular routine as much as possible; eat a healthy diet; exercise; meditate (even if it's just a few deep breaths - this will help slow down your heart beat).
  • Read over the job posting and come up with SAR stories for every skill and experience that is listed. This way, no matter what question they ask, you already have prepared examples of times you demonstrated what they are looking for.
  • Do your research: Find out the names of your interviewers, look them up on LinkedIn, and learn more about the company and the department you are hoping to work for.
  • Make sure you know where the interview is, how long it will take you to get there, and plan to arrive early.
  • Bring three questions you want to ask at the end of the interview and enough resumes for each interviewer, yourself and some extras.
  • Although it is common practice to shake the employer's hand as a greeting, if this isn't something you're accustomed to, you can say "I'm sorry, I don't shake hands, but it is a pleasure meeting you".
  • Many non-Indigenous people believe that maintaining eye contact during an interview is important and shows confidence. During the interview, work within what you are comfortable with. Your tone, body language and facial expressions are also ways to show your confidence.
  • Ask for clarification if you don't understand the question.
  • Speak to your strengths, skills, education and qualifications. Give examples using SAR stories to illustrate why you are the best candidate for the job.
  • Remember to be professional and thank the interviewer(s) at the end of the interview. And don't forget to send a thank you email within 24 hours of the interview.
Smiling & laughing, Students

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