Meeting the Immigration Challenge Strategies for recruiting talent internationally Mark Surrette, President Moncton, NB October 2, 2008

Areas of Focus Sourcing Integration Managing

Sourcing How do we recruit immigrants? –Not many of us know how –Local pools are shallow –Need to go abroad –Use of agencies –Use of brokers –Going to the country of interest - focus

Sourcing Work with national associations Recruiting families or multiple candidates Complicated process Cannot be whimsical in approach Highly competitive –65% claim increase in focus –50% claim hiring takes longer –50% claim paperwork is the biggest challenge

Integration Probably the biggest challenge Credential recognition Critical mass in society ‘Friendly but not welcoming’ Use of organizations like MISA Integration means the entire family, not simply the individual

Integration Ability to check references and backgrounds

Managing a Diverse Workforce Workplace diversity as a source of pride and strength –Starts at the top Enhanced awareness –Need to train and sensitize your employees and supervisors to the complex challenges related to diversity

Managing a Diverse Workforce Fairness and consistency of employment systems –Match rewards to needs Outreach into the Community –Builds support and understanding Careful use and tolerance of language and behavior

Managing a Diverse Workforce Items to consider –Diversity Days –Diversity Calendar –Respectful Workplace Training –ESL Training – Basic and Advanced

Summary Immigration as a solution to our skilled worker shortage is not as easy as it appears Workplace and societal changes needed Must be undertaken now – in a serious way Cannot rely on government or other agencies – organizations must take ownership and action

Questions and Discussion

Thank You!