Each year, Halifax newcomers and recent graduates set out to begin their careers in our city. For many of these emerging professionals, lacking an established network of leaders in their field is a barrier to connecting to job opportunities.
Launched in 2009, the Connector Program matches new immigrants and recent graduates (Connectees) in Halifax with established business and community leaders (Connectors) like you. This informal networking program is as simple as having a cup of coffee and a chat, then offering three contacts from your network that your Connectee can also get in touch with. These introductions help Connectees build their professional network, increasing their chances of finding meaningful employment in Halifax.
Whether you only have a few years of experience or are a C-level executive, we all have the potential to be Connectors. In honour of the 10th
anniversary of the Connector Program, here are 10 reasons to become a Connector today.
Access skilled talent
Being a Connector gives you direct access to the upcoming talent pool for your industry. You will meet job ready newcomers and graduates who are eager to learn from you and grow their knowledge of the local job market. You may even meet your next hire.
Pay it forward
The Connector Program is a great way give back to the community. It’s a light ask – just 30 minutes of your time – but the introductions you make afterward have the potential to change your Connectee’s life.
Bring value to your network
By introducing your Connectee to three of your connections, you not only benefit your Connectee, but also the individuals in your network who will now have the opportunity to meet with a skilled professional.
Share the wealth
Being a Connector is an opportunity to share the wealth of knowledge and experience you’ve gained in your career. You have insight into the local job market that your Connectee may not have. Your individual experience cannot be replicated, which is invaluable for the Connectee.
Expand your cultural awareness
As a Connector, you will have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world and learn about their cultures. We have had Connectees from India, China, Russia, Nigeria, and more.
Encourage inclusion and collaboration
By sharing your knowledge about current market demands and skills needed to succeed in your field, you are helping Connectees break down a barrier they face, helping them feel welcomed into our community.
Tap into hidden opportunities
We tell Connectees that hidden opportunities can be found through networking, including jobs, volunteer opportunities and term-based projects that would not be found online. Connectors can also tap into hidden opportunities – Connectees bring talent that may not have otherwise be found through candidates that apply online. They may bring international experience, unique insights, a different perspective and skillset.
Increase awareness about your industry
While your Connectee would likely come from the same industry as you, there is information about your industry that the Connectee doesn’t know. You have insights that will help expand their awareness, which the Connectee can pass this along to their own peers.
Increase awareness about your organization
The more you expand your network, the more you can promote your organization. Your Connectee may have not heard of your organization. This is your opportunity to share what your company does day-to-day, your company culture, and why upcoming talent should consider working there. Word-of-mouth is powerful advertising.
Help drive Halifax’s population and economic growth
We need to attract and retain talent to ensure continued economic growth for Halifax. Connectees who find jobs here are more likely to stay, buy houses here, and build their lives here, which benefits our economy long-term.
To sign up as a Connector, click here.
Thank you to the Province of Nova Scotia, RBC Future Launch, and our volunteer Connectors. The Connector Program would not be the success that it is without your engagement and support.
Keep an eye out on our website and social media channels for more Connector Program Anniversary content like this!