FAQ's for Employers
Do I need to train them?
Our candidates arrive ready to work like any other new employee. We believe every employee in your organization will have unique training requirements based on their skills and your desire for their ongoing development. SkillsMeridian can coordinate specific training programs for you including English language, technical or business skills training as required.
For International Candidates - Are they Full Time Employees?
Yes they are full time, although the candidates can either be hired as an employee or under a contract. Typically a contract would have to be a minimum of 6 months or more. Candidates can be placed locally (in Canada or the US) or we can help you set up an offshore development center in their home country.
How do we ensure the new employee will stay?
SkillsMeridian has developed a comprehensive landing process to help ensure the candidate relocates quickly and successfully to Canada. Our HR specialists have significant international experience and will work with your HR organization to ensure your international candidates assimilate quickly.
We help the employer with compensation, training and relocation best practices and we help the candidate tap into a wealth of resources, networks and support while in Canada.
How do you assess the individual?
SkillsMeridian’s comprehensive assessment process leaves nothing to chance. Education, employment history, language capability, skill levels and immigration status are all thoroughly evaluated prior to your consideration. SkillsMeridian ensures that you see only top employment prospects. These candidates are not your average workers – they are exceptionally skilled, world class resources.
If I relocate a candidate, what if the employee decides to leave?
Naturally there is always a risk a new employee will leave whether they are from Canada or they have landed internationally. Many employers find better retention rates with international candidates as they are highly motivated to stay and prove themselves, and their work visas are tied to a specific employer. SkillsMeridian guarantees all placements.
If the candidate is relocating, how long does it take?
The immigration process depends on several factors, including the candidate’s country of origin, the position and where the job is located in Canada. Immigration can be as quick as 2-6 weeks or up to 2-4 months.
The immigration process can be relatively quick compared to trying to find the right candidates in the North Americian market given the shortage of supply. The key is to partner with SkillsMeridian early so we can effectively plan your recruiting process and provide you with the right people when you need them.
What is the process for international candidates?
We have developed a comprehensive recruiting process called “SAILS” >> Source – Assessment – Immigration – Landing – Success.
The candidate submits their resume and completes an initial questionnaire with us. We then assess their education background, employment history, communication skills and interpersonal skills. We will also assess their ability and capability to immigrate.
They then go through a series of interviews with SkillsMeridian. Once we have determined they are employable and have strong skills, we’ll start the immigration process at this stage before you meet them.
After you conduct your own interviews and extend a job offer, we will complete the immigration process and help you relocate the candidate quickly.
Contact SkillsMeridian to learn more.
What is their English like?
English skills vary by country, by college/university the candidate attended, and work experience. In countries like India, all business and post secondary education is conducted in English so candidates will have good English skills.
As part of our assessment process SkillsMeridian conducts an English language assessment and provides a ranking for you. You will also be able to make your own assessment through the interview process.
What type of visa is required?
Typically, we will bring in the candidate under a Government of Canada Temporary Work Visa which is typically valid for a one year period and is renewable indefinitely.
Once the candidate has arrived, we can help them apply for Permanent Resident visa and also look after bringing the candidates’ immediate family to Canada as required.
Where are international candidates coming from?
SkillsMeridian has local recruiters employed, and partners in various countries around the world. These locations include India, China, Latin America, Mexico and Europe.
We work with our local employees and partners to determine the top schools and the top employers in the region to develop a targeted search for candidates.
