Volunteer Employment Mentor

Profession-specific mentoring is based on building and developing positive relationships that are mutually rewarding and enriching experiences for mentors and mentees. Mentoring for employment often includes but is not limited to:

• Giving information and advice about Canadian business practices
• Explaining how a profession works and how to make contacts
• Sharing expertise and experience in building networks
• Assisting with cross-cultural transition
• Sharing knowledge of Canadian workplaces and career cultures
• Clarifying employers’ needs and expectations
• Networking

OCISO is joining as a partner in the Settlement to Employment Program (STEP) with Algonquin College and Job Connect to develop pathways to employment for internationally trained individuals in various professions and occupations. We are proud to continue to provide successful professional mentoring to internationally trained individuals who are seeking employment.

Benefits to Volunteer Employment Mentors

• Successful results – with close to 30 years of experience promoting social, economic and cultural integration of newcomers in Ottawa, OCISO is building on the success of a Women's Employment Mentoring Program, which in 2006 placed over 70% of the participants in employment
• Profession-specific matching – allows for meaningful interaction and development of reachable goals
• Ongoing support – orientation, training workshops and input into the success of the program
• Flexible scheduling – understanding that time commitment is a two-way street; a mentoring contract usually covers 3 months
• Rewarding friendships – an opportunity to make a real difference in the life of a professional from another culture
• Monthly networking meetings – a forum to meet other mentors and mentees and hear guest speakers on a variety of topics
• Certificate of achievement – recognition for participation in the program and commitment to a successful partnership

Who can become a mentor?

Individuals who are working and have connections through their work as well as have:

• At least 2 years of Canadian work experience
• Interest in meeting people from other countries and cultures
• Good interpersonal communication skills
• Interest in sharing knowledge and expertise
• Understanding of Canadian workplace culture(s) and issues
• Commitment to a mentoring relationship for at least three months

How to get more information and volunteer?

For information about the Employment Mentoring Program, please contact

Tuula Lindholm, Outreach Mentor Recruiter
Phone: 613-725-5671, ext. 312
Fax: 613-725-9054
E-mail: Employment Mentoring

To become a Volunteer Employment Mentor, please contact

Carol Clarke, Volunteer Coordinator
Phone: 613-725-5671, ext. 333
Fax: 613-725-9054
E-mail: Volunteer

For more information about the Settlement to Employment Program (STEP), please visit www.algonquincollege.com/STEP