Do you speak Canadian? First Edition

We are pleased to bring you our new series titled "Do You Speak Canadian?"

Whether you are a growing Canadian company, or a U.S. company moving to Canada, it is essential to know the language of employment. Mitigating the risk of costly litigation can often make or break the success of any business.

LESSON 1: TERMINATION WITHOUT CAUSE

In Canada, an employer may terminate an employee, without cause, so long as they give written Notice of Termination or Termination Pay in lieu of notice.

• Minimum notice period is determined by length of employment
• Working Notice - employee works through the notice period
• Termination Pay - the equivalent pay in lieu of notice
• There are specific timelines for paying Termination Pay
• In Canada, there is no such thing as "At-Will" employment
• Termination Pay is NOT the same as Severance Pay – both may apply

Operating in Canada: The Do's and Dont's (HRO webinar)

HR Options' expert consultants can assist you in your transition into Canada, and your growing business within Canada. Contact us!

UNDERSTANDING CANADIAN LANGUAGE

Hydro - A reference to electricity, not water.

Synonymous with electrical service in provinces where most of the power is supplied through hydroelectricity. "The hydro is out," means there's no power, not that there's no water. This phrase extends to things like 'hydro poles,' 'hydro wires,' and having a 'hydro bill.'

In the U.S. the term Hydro is not typically used. Therefore, eyebrows are raised when Canadians say "My hydro bill was really high this month, eh!"