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Workplace culture in Nova Scotia

Workplace culture describes the rules for behaviour in a group or organization. You may find that workplace culture in Nova Scotia is different in some ways from workplace culture in your home country and similar to others. There may be different manners, processes, and ways of working. It is important that you understand and learn these ways of working so you feel comfortable working in Canada and will be successful in your career.

This section will help you understand a few of the workplace culture basics. You can also learn about Canadian workplace culture by taking the New Beginnings Working in Canada workshop through the WINS program. While you are on the job, watch how others behave and fit in. Do not be afraid to ask questions.

Meeting new people

In Nova Scotia, both men and women will smile, shake hands, and say “How are you” or “Pleased to meet you” when they first meet someone. You can expect this to happen in a job interview or when you are introduced as a new employee. Generally, Canadian workplaces are casual, and most people will go by their first names. You may find this very different if you are used to working in a more formal environment. However, very high-ranking people are usually addressed formally. That means using Mr., Ms., or Dr. before their last name. If you are not sure, ask your supervisor, or listen to how other co-workers address each other.

In some cultures around the world, it is considered impolite to make direct eye contact, especially with a more senior person or someone of the opposite gender. However, in Canada, direct eye contact is very important. In Canadian culture, to look someone in the eye signifies that you are honest, straightforward, and friendly. Always remember to remove your sunglasses when speaking to someone.

Canadians, compared to other nationalities, do not touch each other very often when they are talking in the workplace. It is also considered polite to stand about 60 cm (2 feet) back from each other when talking. If you stand any closer, it may make the other person uncomfortable. Of course, Canadian workplaces can be very diverse, so you may find some workplaces and people are different.

Language– Canada has two offcial languages: English and French. In most Nova Scotian workplaces, English is the language most frequently used.

Canadians try to keep emotions restrained in public. Even if you are arguing a point, do not shout or raise your voice. You will also need to learn which hand gestures and body language are acceptable, and which ones are considered impolite.

Dressing for work – Every workplace has its own style of dress. If you are going for a job interview and are unsure of how to dress, use your past experiences to help decide or ask a friend for advice. Job interviews are formal meetings, so dress accordingly.

Banks and law firms often require “business dress” – that is a shirt, tie, suit, dress pants and dress shoes for men, and a suit, blouse, skirt of an appropriate length or dress pants, pantyhose and dress shoes for women.

Some offices are more casual and allow khakoi r denim pants and golf style shirts with or without a jacket. Take your cues from the people you see working at the workplace. Always be well groomed and clean.

In the skilled trades, you will be expected to dress with safety in mind. That means steel-toed boots, hard hats and other protective equipment, as well as pants made from a rugged material, such as denim.

Personal hygiene, scents, and smoking – Most workplaces in Nova Scotia are designated scent free. That means workers do not wear perfumes, colognes, or scented lotions when at work. Some people are sensitive to strong scents. That is why workplaces are scent free.

It is still very important to practice good personal hygiene. That means taking a daily shower or bath, and using deodorant. In addition, make sure your clothes are also clean and do not smell of cooking odours or cigarette smoke.

Smoking cigarettes, cigars, and pipes is banned in all public places in Nova Scotia, including offices, restaurants, public transportation, malls, and hospitals.

Hours of work – Each workplace sets its own hours. The most common office hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Many workplaces in the service sector will have evening and weekend hours. Hospitals and some factories are open 24 hoursa day.

It is very important to be on time in Canada. Depending upon your job position, you may be expected to show up a little ahead of time so you will be ready to start working when your workplace opens. In all situations, if you are going to be late, you should call your supervisor and explain why you will be late. Some places of work will expect you to make up any lost time by staying late or working through a break.

During your orientation, your employer will tell you how much time you are allowed for breaks and meals each day. It is important to come back on time from these breaks because other workers may have to wait for your return before they can take their break.

Your employer may have a policy and procedure manual that will tell you more about
the company’s workplace culture.