The Maytree Foundation’s blog, “Maytree Conversations,” posted an article by Shannon Klie, Writer and Content Developer, hireimmigrants.ca, ALLIES, entitled “Internships: Low risk, big return,” highlighting innovative programs for bringing qualified international talent to the workplace.
Career Edge Organization’s paid internship program was cited as “a novel approach” for businesses to test out potential candidates for fit and expertise.
The Regional Municipality of Halton has addressed this concern by centralizing the cost of internships. Individual departments don’t bear the cost of an intern, providing further incentive for managers to bring in skilled immigrant interns.
Because the Region partners with Career Bridge, managers have access to many pre-screened, professional new immigrants to fill intern spots. That’s a win-win. And, employers are increasingly recognizing the power of internships, according to an analysis of organizations shortlisted to the Best Employers for New Canadians competition in 2008, 2009 and 2010.
What Employers Need to Know
Internships for skilled immigrants can help with immediate staffing needs. You can:
- Hire a highly skilled and professional candidate on a low-cost trial basis;
- Benefit from multi-lingual professionals who bring global experience to your company and can help you connect with new markets; and
- Increase your staff’s cross-cultural communication skills and intercultural awareness.
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