How to build professional relationships with Canadians?

Building professional relationships in Canada is one of the most important skills for a successful career, especially for Ukrainian immigrants. Understanding the unique aspects of Canadian corporate culture, the right approaches to networking, and methods for building trusting relationships with colleagues can be a determining factor in your professional development. Canada is known for its diverse and inclusive work environment, where individuality is respected but teamwork and collaboration are valued.

Understanding Canadian corporate culture

Canadian corporate culture is built on the principles of equality, inclusivity, and mutual respect. Studies show that 94% of Canadian workers value a respectful and inclusive work environment, which highlights the importance of understanding work standards. Canadians generally prefer indirect communication styles compared to some other cultures, valuing politeness and modesty, which often leads to a less confrontational approach and more consensus-oriented decision-making.

One of the key features of Canadian corporate culture is its emphasis on equality and inclusiveness. In the Canadian business environment, it is common for all meeting participants, regardless of their rank, to have the opportunity to express themselves. This approach fosters an atmosphere of respect and cooperation and is an integral part of doing business across the country. Although Canadian workplaces are less formal than in many other cultures, it is still important to respect hierarchy, recognize the positions and titles of those present, and address them accordingly.

Punctuality is a critical aspect of Canadian business etiquette. Time is valued, and tardiness is often interpreted as a sign of disrespect. Therefore, it is extremely important to arrive on time for meetings, appointments, and professional events. Canadians also value open communication and collaboration, so it is important to be prepared to actively participate in team discussions, share your ideas, and listen to others.

The art of small talk and starting a conversation

Professional relationships in Canada often begin with small talk—short, informal conversations that help establish a connection between people. The Canadian communication style is inherently positive and friendly, and smiling, making eye contact, and greeting people appropriately set the tone for interactions.

The weather is the most popular topic for small talk in Canada. Due to Canada's diverse and sometimes extreme climate, the weather is an easy and understandable topic for almost everyone. Starting a conversation with something like “It's really sunny today!” or “The rain has been heavy lately, hasn't it?” is usually met with a friendly response. Other safe topics include sports, especially hockey during the winter season, travel and local attractions, food, and coffee.

It is important to avoid personal and sensitive topics such as family, salary, religion, and politics.

Strategies for effective networking

Networking is the lifeblood of Canadian business culture and your path to building relationships and expanding your professional network. Canadians value a friendly but professional approach to networking. In 2025, the scale of the Canadian labor market requires smart networking strategies and updated industry knowledge.

Key principles:

  • Build trust before selling.
  • Attend industry events and associations.
  • Create a 30-second introduction.
  • Follow up within 24–48 hours.

Developing relationships in the workplace

Building strong relationships in the workplace requires consistent effort and authenticity. Practice:

  • Active listening
  • Empathy
  • Nonverbal communication
  • Positive attitude

Even simple daily conversations in the office can strengthen trust and team unity.

Mentoring as a development tool

Mentoring is a free resource for adapting, understanding the industry, and building a career strategy. A mentor can:

  • Share industry knowledge.
  • Help with goals and skills.
  • Open up new professional connections.

The benefits for mentors and mentees are mutual.

Specifics for Ukrainian immigrants

Ukrainians should keep in mind:

  • Canadian diplomacy and indirect communication style.
  • Formal phrases such as “How are you?” are not an invitation to be candid.
  • Adapt to emotional restraint and physical distance.

Discussions about the war should be kept to a close circle of friends and family to avoid creating tension.

Using digital platforms for networking

Platforms such as:

  • LinkedIn — critically important
  • Meetup, Eventbrite — for events
  • Social networks — for meaningful dialogue

Webinars, online meetings, and chats are all tools for building and maintaining a network.

Industry-specific features of professional relationships

Each industry has its own formats:

  • TechTO — IT
  • CFA Society — finance
  • Life Sciences Ontario — life sciences
  • Canadian Food Innovation Network — food industry

Adapt your style to the traditions in your field.

Long-term maintenance of professional relationships

Stay in touch through:

  • Emails, phone calls, coffee.
  • Help, introductions, articles, resources.

Be reliable and listen actively — this builds trust.

Overcoming cultural barriers

Avoid being too direct. Pay attention to:

  • Verbal and nonverbal cues.
  • Management communication style.
  • Company formality level.

Join professional associations and groups

Examples:

  • Young Professionals Network (YPN)
  • CanSPEP
  • ILEA Canada
  • Sign Association of Canada

These communities offer both educational and networking opportunities.

Specific programs for newcomers

  • Alberta Immigrant Mentorship Network (AIMN)
  • ERIEC (Edmonton Region Immigrant Employment Council)
  • ACCES Employment — program for Ukrainians

All of them offer mentoring, career counseling, emotional support, and more.

Utilizing the existing Ukrainian diaspora

  • Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) — support and resources.
  • Cultural centers — events, networking, integration.
  • Sectoral projects — joint Ukrainian-Canadian initiatives.

The Ukrainian community is not only a source of support, but also a bridge to intercultural cooperation.

Building trust through authenticity

  • Honesty, interest in others, transparency.
  • Do not impose yourself or pursue profit.
  • Follow up after meeting someone — send personal messages.

Long-term, authentic relationships are the key to career success.

Building professional relationships with Canadians requires an understanding of cultural nuances, patience, and an authentic approach to communication. Ukrainian professionals can create strong networks that will support their growth in Canada for many years to come.