INTERNATIONAL MBA STUDENT CONNECTOR PROGRAM

OCTOBER 2010

CINDY DEANCONNECTOR PROGRAM COORDINATOR

JACKIE GUOINTERNATIONAL STUDENT CONNECTORCOORDINATOR

PRESENTATION OUTLINE

• Greater Halifax Partnership

• International MBA Student Connector Program

• Goals and Objectives

• Upcoming Events

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WHO WE ARE

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• Raise awareness and change perceptions about the benefits of hiring immigrants and international MBA students

• Engage business leaders in becoming proactive to integrate immigrants and international MBA students to the workplace

• Increase the business networks of immigrants and international MBA students

IMMIGRATION GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

IMMIGRATION WORKS IN HALIFAX

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Generated over 20 million media impressions

IMMIGRATION EMPLOYER SUPPORT PROGRAM

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• Launched in October 2007

• Helps employers understand the immigration process

• Visited more than 125 local businesses interested in hiring immigrants

• Sponsored seven sector-specific information sessions

• Worked with seven post- secondary institutions to connect graduates to business

INTERNATIONAL MBA STUDENT CONNECTOR PROGRAM

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• International MBA Student Connector Program

•Social and Professional Networks

•Using Traditional channels to network

CONNECTOR PROGRAM

Who are Connectors “Connectors are people in a community who know

large numbers of people and who are in the habit of making introductions. A connector is essentially the social equivalent of a computer network hub. Connectors usually know people across an array of social, cultural, professional, and economic circles, and make a habit of introducing people who work or live in different circles”

-The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference

Malcolm Gladwell

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HOW IT WORKS

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• Receive resumes from Participants

• Match based on industry experience and qualifications

• Virtual email of introduction between connector and international MBA students

• Connection Meeting

• Follow-up

THE CONNECTING PROCESS

CONNECTOR PROGRAM

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“I am passionate about the Partnership’s Connector Program because, in a strategic and tactical way, it facilitates the introduction of professional newcomers with high quality employers.”

Jamie Welsh, Senior Manager, Deloitte Halifax

EXAMPLES OF CONNECTOR COMPANIES…

CONNECTOR PROGRAM RESULTS

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• Recognized as a best practice for attraction and retention of immigrants

• Received honorable mention in IEDC Economic Development Awards

• Second place in RBC Best Economic Development Program in Canada (EDAC)

• 235 connectors, 250 connections, 33 employed

HALIFAX CONNECTOR PROGRAM DUPLICATED ACROSS CANADA: NORTH BAY ONTARIO

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The Connector Program This project was launched in 2009 to help integrate newcomers into the community. It was designed to help create professional and social networks for internationally trained professionals, business immigrants, and newcomers. The program is operated through the North Bay& District Multicultural Centre and the Rotary Club of North Bay

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HALIFAX CONNECTOR PROGRAM DUPLICATED ACROSS CANADA:NIAGARA REGION

IMPLEMENTING TRACKING SYSTEM

IMPLEMENTING TRACKING SYSTEM

•Valid Work-permit holder with valid passport from home country or Permanent Resident to Canada

•Obtained MBA degree since 2007 or anticipated graduation day within the next 8 months

•Currently living in Halifax with the intent to work and stay in NS

•Actively pursing your job search

WHO CAN APPLY?

Upcoming Events

• Welcome International MBA Students Mix and Mingle

• Nova Scotian Associations Christmas Social

• Future Networking Events

Other• Bridge Welcome Banner• Welcoming Guide to International Students

STAY TUNED….

CONNECTING YOU

Jackie GuoProject Coordinator, International Student Connector Program

• P: 902.490.4088• E: jguo@greaterhalifax.com• W: www.greaterhalifax.com• Add: 1969 Upper Water Street | Purdy’s

Tower II | Suite 2101 Halifax, NS | B3J 3R7

PROGRAM CONTACT

QUESTIONS?