There was no question that joining The Mentoring Partnership was a natural fit for Scotiabank. Operating in over 50 countries around the world, the bank had made the link between understanding local cultural nuances and being successful. With Toronto’s cultural make-up changing so quickly, it was clear that joining The Mentoring Partnership made good business sense.
In addition to the professional development potential, Scotiabank employees have embraced the idea of mentoring skilled immigrants for personal fulfillment – and it shows. Since coming onboard just over a year ago, Scotiabank employees have mentored over 175 skilled immigrants.
Mentors are able to develop leadership skills by coaching their mentees. In turn, mentees walk away with the confidence and understanding of how to successfully pursue Canadian work opportunities. Says Mohammed Chowdhury, a business analyst from Bangladesh who was paired with a Scotiabank mentor: “My mentor helped me prepare for job opportunities through mock interviews. Now I know how to ‘own’ an interview and this confidence has led me to a job in my field.”
Scotiabank has deliberately promoted The Mentoring Partnership to hiring managers to help them to gain a more global mindset and consider skilled immigrant candidates. “By encouraging Scotiabank employees to approach their work from varying perspectives, we are opening up the organization for increased innovation and creativity,” says Deanna Matzanke, Director, Global Employment Strategies.
The bank also conducts workshops for their employees’ mentees in areas such as cross cultural understanding and job search strategies in the Canadian context. It’s clear that Scotiabank is committed to helping newcomers succeed.