oNE oN oNE
&
tHE pR BEHiNd tHE tHRoNE NucLEAR MEdiciNE cAREERS iN iNSuRANcE BuSiNESS ScHooL RuNdoWN
gay
is it OK to be at work?
november/december 2010 | careers. education. ideas. all of it.
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Hey. Did you know that these companies have lots of entry level positions? Visit their websites to see a full list of positions available. 9 11 11 13 13 20 22 27 OBC College Pro RBC Insurance SGI Canada Hydro One Revera Kingston General Hospital West Park Healthcare Centre Sun Life Financial Home Depot
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It seems that every company has a diversity department these days. But what is PR and what is practice? And how can coming out affect your career?
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Editors Note Holiday Detox Guide Success Story: Nicholas Wallat. Brought to you by Rogers Wireless
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Its Not You... Its Me (and my fear of hiring Jenna Maroney from 30 Rock)
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industryinsiders 21 Northward Bound: Nursing in Rural Canada 23 Looking Within: Nuclear Medicine Technologist 24 Soundbites, Speeches, and Spin: PR in Politics 26 Underwriting Success: Careers in Insurance
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Jason Rhyno
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Sometimes, you can become so bogged down in the day-to-day operations and projects at work that you forget why you wanted to work at Awesome Company in the first place. The employer-employee relationship can become stale, much like romantic relationships (see this months Career Cupid for a much more thorough analogy on careers as relationships). You get in a rut, stop trying as hard as you did when you first started, and begin to question why you are here, with this person (employer). The magic has dissipated.
Involving yourself with associations, attending events, and joining groups of like-minded people are great ways to combat the ebb of passion for your work. Recently, I was lucky enough to attend an event titled State of The Magazine Nation: The Future of Magazines, and I havent felt this intellectually nourished in months. My neurons were firing like Neo, in The Matrix, and I couldnt seem to get my thoughts on paper fast enough. The ideas and conversations were inspiring, and I now find myself brandishing a renewed confidence in my choice of industry and my very own career path. Its like I fell in love all over again, and Im bringing that love to this magazine. The magic has returned. Joining associations and groups can not only re-ignite your passion, but they are also a fantastic way to stay up to date on industry trends and gain access to resources typically unavailable to the general public. Associations will commission studies, write a report, and then disseminate that to their members. If your job entails presentations in front of co-workers or attending meetings where you must argue in favour of your ideas, this information is invaluable. There is nothing more convincing than backing your ideas with up to date studies from industry experts, and to your boss, there is nothing more respectable; it says that youre passionate about your work, that you are forward-thinking, and that youre bringing that to the team. Good job, heres your promotion! Attending events often put on by these associations will put you in touch with like-minded people, another invaluable resource. Conversing on relevant topics with people in your industry is a fantastic way to learn; youll discover how one of your peers is tackling a problem youve been
It m e li ca a
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wrestling with, hear industry speakers talk on relevant issues, and get loads of free muffins and coffee. The one on one sharing of information and ideas is priceless, and its through these conversations that youll discover original ideas and solutions. But these conversations dont just have to be about work, they can also be the basis for other groups. I was fortunate enough to interview some interesting people for this months feature story, all of whom are passionately devoted to diversity in the workplace. They all have memberships or connections with national, regional and/ or local groups advocating for diversity. Many of those groups began at the workplace then exploded to include other companies and non-profit organizations. They help individual members, and provide mentorship as well as a plethora of very, very important initiatives. They do good, needed work and it all started at work! Research and join these associations now, while you are still in school. Youll connect with great people, become engaged with industry trends, and develop a network of support outside of the office. And, yes, having these associations on your resume will look fabulous but you shouldnt do it for that reason.
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A college diploma or university degree in any subject is helpful for entry into the profession, although those who have mathematics or business would have an advantage.
Broker / Agent
Youre a people person and a great communicator Insurance brokers and agents help consumers nd the right coverage to protect their cars, homes, businesses, boats and belongings against loss through accident, re or theft. While brokers usually represent several insurance companies, agents are more likely to sell policies for just one. These are the entrepreneurs of the insurance industry with many of them working for themselves or for small independent rms.
Loss Adjuster
Youre part private investigator and part therapist The loss adjuster is responsible for ensuring that those who have suffered a loss receive the compensation and assistance they are eligible to receive. Whether employed by the insurance company or working as an independent contractor, the loss adjuster investigates the accident, arranges medical treatment if necessary and negotiates the nal settlement to restore policy holders to where they were, as closely as possible, before their loss.
Your interests and your experience may add up to a great career in insurance.
For a greater advantage, and the highest placement value, I would recommend courses in law as well as successful completion of a business or insurance program.
Underwriter
Youre a relationship developer and decision-maker Underwriters accept or reject risk on behalf of insurance companies. They assess the kind of insurance required by organizations as diverse as a shopping mall, a professional sports team, a manufacturer, a city government or a construction company. Underwriters examine every facet of the organizations operation and its request for insurance, then decide what the insurance company should cover and how much it should charge.
time of year to spend with loved ones but it can also be a time of some major food overload! Dont get me wrong, I love food and nothing beats good old-fashioned home cooking over the holidays, but youll know youve overdone it when youve fallen into a state of hibernation and can barely move off the couch that you collapsed onto days ago. And school, well, lets just say school will probably be the last thing on your mind during this time. My suggestion to help kick that lethargic state of being: a food detoxification week after (or during) the holidays packed full of healthy fruits and vegetables. The easiest way to do this is to create simple meals and snacks consisting of healthy salads, with lots of greens, vegetables and fresh fruit, all served raw. Thatll really clean out your system if you know what I mean. When all else fails, drink plenty of water or tea throughout the day to help your digestive system and overall good health. Cheers!
detox
strawberry + greens salad:
On a bed of brown rice or salad add: spinach, carrots, broccoli, tomato, yellow peppers, strawberries, walnuts, and your favourite dressing (can be served warm).
holiday
jobpostings
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mlaurie@jobpostings.ca editor:
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web editor:
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eminthorn@jobpostings.ca circulation & production:
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trio salad:
Bed of lettuce with shredded carrots, cucumber or zucchini, red pepper and a few cherry tomatoes on top; enjoy with your favourite dressing.
jobpostings is published eight times in the school year. Issue dates are September, October, November, January, February, March, April, and May. Copies of jobpostings are distributed to over 105 universities and colleges across Canada. Contents of this publication are protected by copyright and may not be reprinted in whole or part without permission of the publishers. Good luck on the interview!
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BlackBe rr
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970 0 sm art
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interview smarts
Q. A.
Give an example of a time when you had to work with someone who was difficult to deal with. Why were they difficult and how did you handle it?
goal? Are you able to come up with an acceptable resolution? What we are looking for are conflict resolution skills. To prepare for the question, think of a time when you had to deal with a problematic individual. Practice describing the situation; why you considered this person difficult, and what the goal was in your interaction. Then describe the action you took to resolve the issue or reach your goal and finally, prepare to discuss the result of your action. An example of a well-rounded answer could be: I was the leader of a group project in a second year class and a team member disagreed with all my suggestions for completing the assignment. After continued negative responses to my alternative ideas, I decided to speak with him after class and told him that although he disagrees with my ideas, we have to work together to finish the project on time. He agreed and although he still didnt like some of my ideas, we worked together to get the project done on time. Remember: your answer should not focus on the situation in itself, it should be about the way you were able to describe how you handled yourself.
When I ask this question in an interview it always seems to change the mood and candidates struggle finding examples. Why does this happen, if we know that dealing with difficult people is a common situation? Weve all had a time where we had to deal with someone who was difficult or challenging either at work, school or even in line for a coffee. Managing how we deal with these situations is going to differ depending on the situation, the personalities involved, and the type of relationship we have with this person. We all want to leave a positive impression, particularly in an interview. You may worry that you will be seen as causing the difficult situation. As the interviewee, you need to look past this. Many people respond with Ive never had to deal with a difficult person, I get along with everyone. The reason interviewers ask this question is not to identify how easygoing you are, but to understand how you manage through challenging situations. Are you able to stay focused on the end
itS Not you itS ME (ANd My fEAR of HiRiNg JENNA MARoNEy fRoM 30 RocK)
Or the candidate who fainted in the middle of her interview. Or the candidate who threw plastic bugs at me and my colleagues (it was a metaphor gone wrong). So many interviews. Sooo many ideas to send in to the writers of 30 Rock. If you think this is sounding remarkably like a recent conversation you had about your crazy dating life, thats exactly my point: interviewing is a lot like dating. And, just like in dating, all the hair gel in the world wont help you if you forget some important principles during the big event.
cAREERcupid
by Christine Fader, Career Counsellor @ Queens University tell interesting but appropriate stories that show you in your best light. Confidence with a good dose of humility is the line to toe here. Honesty is important too (because after all, youre also trying to suss out if you want to keep this thing going beyond a first date), but use restraint. This is probably not the time to tell them that you text your mother eight times a day and that you once won a burping contest at the CNE. Too. Much. Information.
What about a bad interview? If you buy my analogy that finding a great career is a lot like the process of finding a great romantic relationship, then youll probably agree that the road to happily ever after at work is bound to be littered with at least some bad interview dates. Case in point: the physician candidate who left me with a $6,000 bill after a three-day visit.
VAguE = SuSpiciouS
On the other end of TMI is uni-bomber. Help them know that you are easy to work with and motivated to contribute. use specific examples from your past experiences to help them see you in action. If you generalize too much when they ask you questions, they will fill in the gaps themselves and presto-bongo, before you know it, theyre imagining all sorts of conspiracy theories. Think: creepy person your roommate dated that time. Yep, thats who the employer thinks you are now, even though they like your shoes. Youre creepy person with nice shoes which generally means stylish, but far too scary to hire.
+ Author of Career Cupid: Your Guide to landing and loving Your Dream Job. careercupid.com
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Image: iStockphoto/Thiunkstock
Insurance Advisors
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oNE on oNE
iN RWANdA, A pAcKAgE of SANitARy pAdS
costs about a days wages for most local women. This lack of access to affordable sanitary supplies means millions of women and girls in this and other underprivileged regions are missing up to 50 days of work and school every year. Since women reinvest 80 cents of every dollar earned back into their families and communities as opposed to just 30 cents per dollar by men the economic impact of this disparity on women, their families, and their communities is staggering. Enter Elizabeth Scharpf, a healthcare start-up veteran whos worked with the Clinton Foundation and the World Bank in South America, Asia, and East Africa. She spoke to us on her way to catch a flight to Rwanda, where SHEs award-winning initiative SHE28 is helping local women start their own sustainable, community based businesses crafting sanitary supplies from locally-sourced, ecofriendly banana fibers. The new pads cost 65 percent less than the big brand alternatives a sustainable, market-based solution, PERIOD. Interviewed by Emily Minthorn
mentor /' mentor/ 1 n. an experienced and trusted advisor or guide (who usually buys lunch, too). 2. Yoda 3. Or Mr. Miyagi (wax on, wax off). 4. Professor Dumbledore he was a mentor. 5. So was Gandalf. 6. Morpheus! Nearly forgot about Morpheus! He was a pretty sick mentor. Man, how cool would it be to have Morpheus as your mentor? (Hey, why arent there any women mentors in pop culture?) 7. v.tr. act as a mentor to (a person). mentoring n. & adj. mentorship n.
Elizabeth Scharpf, CEO of SHE (Sustainable Health Enterprises), holds an MBA from Harvard Business School, an MPA in international development from Harvards Kennedy School of Government, and a BA from the University of Notre Dame.
I think there need to be more womens voices speaking to young people. I didnt have that.
Is social entrepreneurship very different from starting up a for-profit enterprise? Its similar, actually. You have to do the same thing every entrepreneur does, which is to try and make some magic happen with very limited resources. You have to believe in something more than anyone else does. You have to be able to weather the questions and the funny stares that you get from your loved ones, the looks from your family and friends that say Are you crazy? Motivations are also similar: you want to do something different, you want to have flexibility in your life, you want to do something that no one else has done. The only big difference would be your motivation to make social profit versus financial profit. How do you balance the businesss bottom line with your social profit goals? In that sense, the social profit space can be a lot more challenging than a strictly for-profit model. First of all, I encourage everyone interested in social profit enterprises to absolutely include an income-generating revenue stream in their model. You do have to make money, and you have to make social profit. Whenever we have a decision to make, I have to ask myself, Will this take us closer to our social profit mission? If it doesnt, you have to prioritize, and maybe decide to go down a different path. Thats how I try to negotiate all the different factors going on: through prioritization. Were there any mentors who helped you early in your career? Skill set wise, I had a mentor in my first business job: Gordon Perry. Hes a phenomenal thinker and problem solver. On the social profit side, even though I didnt know her very well, my grandmother. She was from Ireland, and like many immigrants she had to make magic with very few resources. look to your family and the people who are close to you and you might be surprised how inspiring theyve been in your life, whether you know it or not. Do you think being a woman in the business world has afforded you a unique outlook? The majority of start-up entrepreneurs are men, and yet the most untapped asset in the world is, arguably, girls and women. In order to catalyze those groups of people, its helpful that I can put myself in their shoes more easily although I think an African woman would be even better suited, which is why I have a fantastic COO, Julian Kayibanda. I also think its very important to have different perspectives in general. Better decisions are made with diverse perspectives. Our board includes a man, we have men on our technical team as well as community health workers. What career advice do you have for students and new grads? If you dont feel like you want to jump up out of bed every day to do this, then maybe its not the right time for you to do it. I really encourage young folks to learn tangible skills. Project management, decision making, prioritization, managing people, raising capital, project implementation. Setting out and developing some tangible skills early on is really, really important; tangible, transferable skills. Things that you know, that you can apply now and later. You can learn more about SHE28 and other projects at sheinnovates.com
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Are you thinking how will I compete with the thousands of other recent grads when I leave school?
Graduate with real world experience you cant obtain in the classroom. Join your schools SIFE team today. What are you waiting for? Your future starts now. Visit www.acecanada.ca today.
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gay
at work?
Its difficult to answer No, it isnt okay to be out at
work when many of the worlds largest companies are devoting mass quantities of money, resources, and people to, not only sexual diversity, but diversity in general. And they are proud of this fact, raising a vibrant rainbow flag underneath their own logo. From accounting firms to technology companies, our big corporations are marching in the parade. Even CSIS dropped in at this years Pride Parade in Toronto and they werent even undercover.
Image: iStockphoto.com/pinkpig
is it OK to be
15
everyone
has the ability to succeed and that there arent things getting in the way.
et its also difficult to answer Yes, its okay to be out at work when there is still an unnerving amount of gay youth suicides; when a New York (New York?) candidate for governor remarks that he doesnt want children brainwashed into thinking that homosexuality is an equally valid and successful option it isnt. Not to mention a homophobic Tweet from an Olympic gold medalist, or the discharge of First lieutenant Dan Choi, a former infantry officer in the uS Army, after he came out during a news interview. At the time of writing this article, a federal uS judge deemed Dont Ask, Dont Tell unconstitutional, ordering an injunction stopping the enforcement of the policy; a policy which the former uS soldier pointed out directly conflicts with the Honour Code soldiers are taught at military academy: dont lie. Dont Ask, Dont Tell forces you to lie, he said in an interview, and hiding and lying arent army values. Aspects of our culture seem to say one thing, while the policies of democratic institutions say another. Individuals are equally confused about the subject. During an editorial meeting when discussing this story, a colleague said, Oh, I dont think that belongs at work. This was odd, especially considering that this was the same person who, weeks before, pointed out that when people say Thats so gay, what they really mean is Thats lame. After asking what, exactly, she meant by doesnt belong at work, she responded by asking, Well, why is it important? It was a good question. And a good place to start. From an organizational perspective, we as employers are looking for our people to be as engaged in their work as possible, explains Michael Bach, Director of Diversity at KPMG. There are lots of studies that show engaged employees are more productive and therefore organizations are more profitable. It affects so many aspects of the way we function as organizations when our people are engaged, and there are many studies that show if somebody has to leave something at the door and that can be anything, but specifically their sexual
orientation or gender identity or expression if they have to deny that in any way, then they are not engaged in their work. So really, its ultimately about our productivity. For companies, everything ultimately comes down to the bottom line, and having a strong image as a champion of diversity, especially here in North America, allows companies to be seen as open and welcoming, making them all the more attractive to young grads. But it begs the question, how much of this is simply PR?
If youre thinking about how youre going to have to lie when youre at work, and youre there for 80 percent of your day, its going to be extremely stressful on you and your life.
Bach, who is frequently asked by other companies to consult on diversity strategies, and maintains a blog titled Diversity Dude, acknowledges that there are some organizations that it is lip service, but I can also say there are an equal number of organizations where its not. Im a firm believer in making sure that the culture is up to speed before we start talking about it externally. For Bach, if an organization hires a contingent of people from diverse backgrounds without ensuring that their culture is open, it will backfire. Make sure your culture is open and inclusive and welcoming, and then go to market with it. But until you do the work internally, you should not try to broadcast something thats just not true. Xerox has maintained an lGBT group for the past 20 years, called GAlAXe. Marc-Antoine Saumier, president of GAlAXes Montreal chapter, says that the message of inclusivity is voiced internally as well as externally. This is important as if there is any discrimination to any lGBT employees, you have to talk about it. If you dont talk about it, the policies have no way of being applied. Xerox uses an internal website to foster conversation by posting information on Pride Month and other diversity initiatives. They are sharing information with the general public at Xerox about why diversity is important and why we have these policies.
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lGBT groups like GAlAXe and pride@KPMG not only spread knowledge to other employees, they also provide a host of other services, like mentoring programs, scholarships, leadership programs and networking opportunities. For lucy Zhao, president of Out on Bay St., an organization created by MBA students, networking was one of the main motivators for her to become involved, but it also helped fill the gap between graduating and working. I was in marketing at the time so it was a really good fit, and I was really enthusiastic about exploring the community, especially as a woman in the corporate gay world. There isnt that many of us, and I wanted to build up that community and show that there are lesbians in the corporate world we dont all do social science! More to the point, however, these organizations create a space where people can be themselves. If youre thinking about how youre going to have to lie when youre at work, and youre there for 80 percent of your day, its going to be extremely stressful on you and your life, says Zhao. This type of stress can lead a closeted person to have health issues, cautions Bach, and it hinders career progression. Youre not going to be engaged and because youre not engaged, theres a chance youre going to miss out on opportunities, he warns, because people wont see you as connected to the job. While Saumier was never closeted, he did avoid breaching the subject at work. My career at Xerox was working very hard but not talking that much about my personal life, up till about 2006, at which point I participated at a conference in Montreal during the Outgames called Out for Business. That really opened my eyes, hearing other companies and executives talking about their experiences being out, and I said this talks to me and I should be out at work, as well. He discovered that his colleagues never had an issue with him being gay, just that they didnt know how to ask about it. Thats also another thing that is very important: people dont talk about it because they dont know how to ask the question. Its a message and conversation that many straight, white male employees have a hard time accessing. I think that a lot of straight, white, able bodied men dont understand the privilege that theyve experienced in their lives, says Bach, who encourages straight, white, able-bodied men (SWAMS) to ask the stupid question or say the stupid thing, and not be embarrassed by it. If someone says something that is inappropriate, I dont chastise them, I dont get angry. I think it is an opportunity for me to help someone understand better. Saumier agrees, adding that we can take it in our own hands to share, and it is not to impose it on them, but its to include them in our conversation. Bach also points out that when you look at the word diversity in the dictionary, it simple means different, it doesnt mean different from straight, white, able-bodied men. So, in the grand scheme of things, and this is my approach, its about everybody. Its making sure that everyone has the ability to succeed and that there arent things getting in the way.
So
to BE out At WoRK?
Okay
iS
it
Yes, but there are still geographic areas and sectors that are catching up to the current cultural make-up of society. The important thing is to do research, advises Paul Bowman, a career counsellor at Queens university. He recommends taking a look at Canadas Top 100 Employers, published annually in The Globe and Mail. But, he says, There is the official party line of inclusivity and diversity and equality in the workplace; then there is actual practice. linkedIn is a great resource to connect with people in those firms because often there will be an lGBT employee group within that firm. Get the names of the HR people and contact them directly, and ask them about their programs or for the names of people you can potentially contact for an informational interview. This, stresses Bowman, is a critical piece of the research, so dont be shy. You can also contact groups like Pride at Work or Out on Bay St., which often have campus reps, and respond quickly to emails (we know first hand). Check with your school to see what resources are available. And remember, as Marc-Antione Saumier says, Once you are comfortable, be yourself, everywhere.
by Jason Rhyno
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To apply for a position at KGH, please e-mail: peopleservices@kgh.kari.net indicating both your program and employment status preference (FT/PT). Learn more about working at KGH: www.kgh.on.ca/en/workwithus
can help.
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Exclusive info on top employers. New education programs. Interview smarts. Expert career advice. And, yes, tips to make your resume nothing short of remarkable.
Whatever you need to build your dream career, jobpostings.ca is here | careers. education. ideas. all of it.
November/December 2010 | jobpostings.ca
industryinsiders
northward bound
in northern areas
fiRSt NAtioNS NEEdS
Canada has the second largest proportion of Indigenous people of any country in the world, representing 4 percent of the Canadian population. There are over 600 distinctive First Nations communities, and almost half of the First Nations people are living in rural and remote locations on reservations. by Lisa Charleyboy According to the Health Council of Canada, First Nations people currently have a health status that is well below the national average. These reserves offer a great opportunity to put your skills into practice. With the median age of First Nations people at only 25 years old, the health prevention and awareness programs put into place can seriously impact and shape a healthy future for the community.
Image: iStockphoto/Thinkstock
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The benefits of these postings also extend to a regular 37.5 hour work week with compensation for overtime work. Your salary can range from $67,000 to $108, 754 for those with advanced education degrees. Added incentives include a recruitment, retention, and isolated posting bonus. Also, the breadth of experience that youll gain from working in this area will prepare you for all types of health care opportunities. Theyll have a lot of community health experience, and advanced assessment skills, says Currier.
pre-school and infant immunization, Firth says. But theres so much opportunity for input into developing programs toward illness prevention, which is where healthcare has to go.
We are looking for clinical and non-clinical professionals to compliment our high-functioning teams.
West Park Healthcare Centre provides specialized rehabilitation, complex continuing care and long-term care services. Working with patients and their families, we are partners in the often tough and challenging journey from survival to living life to the fullest. Our outstanding in-patient and out-patient rehabilitation services are designed to help people overcome serious health challenges following onset of major illness or injury such as stroke, lung disease, traumatic injury and amputation. As part of an integrated healthcare team using best practices we help patients on the road to recovery . Our highly dedicated teams ensure that quality care and best practices are not just rules but are standards to live by every day. We provide specialized services in: ABI Behavioural Services Amputee Rehabilitation Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Chronic Assisted Ventilatory Care Home Ventilator Training Neurological Rehabilitation Prosthetics & Orthotics Respiratory Rehabilitation & Day Hospital Regional MS Services Respiratory Continuing Care Services Ambulatory and Outpatient Services
If you are committed to making a difference, have a passion for helping others, and are looking for a place to contribute and grow, then we would like to talk to you! CONTACT US TODAY Tel: 416-243-3600 Fax: 416-243-3422 Application by website: www.westpark.org
Dan Mazor suffered major neck injury
Exceptional Healthcare in Exceptional Surroundings As a West Park Healthcare Centre team member, youll discover the rewards of a caring community of staff, physicians, volunteers, patients and their families, a community that has inspired people to choose West Park for more than 100 years.
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November/December 2010 | jobpostings.ca
industryinsiders
As you might expect, its involved business being on the administering end of radioactive drugs. Nuclear medicine is a rapidly evolving discipline with ongoing research and developments in radiopharmaceuticals, hybrid imaging technology and molecular imaging applications, says Lorie Fisher, Program Head of the Nuclear Medicine Technology department at the British Columbia Institute of Technology. Its a specialized discipline, but theres ample opportunity to move, literally and figuratively. While an accredited graduate might seek work in Canada, the States, or even worldwide, says Fisher, each country has its own certification and licensing requirements. People appreciate the standards of practice here in Canada, and many gravitate back here. Jordan Holmes, an assistant professor of Nuclear Medicine at The Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences in Toronto, adds, nuclear medicine departments exist in hospitals in most city centres throughout the world. In rural settings, a department in a regional hospital will typically service a wide geographical area. In Canada and the United States, private clinics are also an option. The starting salary for a new grad can fluctuate depending on region and institution, and ranges between $2530 an hour. Advancement opportunities vary, depending
by Kevin Nelson gist for their whole career, but others choose to branch out, offers Holmes. Some go to work for pharmaceutical companies or imaging equipment manufacturers like GE, Phillips or Siemens. Still others move on to work in education, or become involved with our federal regulatory board, The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. If youre thinking of entering the field, there are a couple things to keep in mind, beyond the obvious need for accreditation and certification. People who get into this field are responsible, dependable and effective communicators, says Fisher. Alongside all of the intense mental requirements of the job, including the safe handling and administering of radiopharmaceuticals and efficient imaging processing and study, she notes that theres also a strong physical component to the job. Technologists are physically active and must be able to move heavy objects and perform patient transfers safely and spend long hours on their feet. In Holmes estimation, its important to have the ability to multi-task, and to have an analytical perspective, but theres also a need for the human touch. A big part of our job is gaining the trust and cooperation of patients, physicians and co-workers, he muses. To do that, one needs to be comfortable communicating with people and have the capacity for empathy. The trick is learning to leave the baggage at work. When I was practising in a hospital, he continues, I found that the hardest part of the job was keeping an emotional distance from the patients. The day-to-day work of a Nuclear Medicine Technologist is variable. Were looking at the function of a wide array of physical processes, ranging from the supply of blood to the heart to how well the thyroid is processing iodine, says Holmes. That makes it unlikely that each day will be the exact same routine. Fisher agrees, adding that, technologists typically rotate responsibility for different areas of practice. They may be managing the operations of a radiopharmacy, including the preparing and administering radiopharmaceuticals to patients, or they may be responsible for performing patient imaging studies and operating gamma camera digital imaging systems. To Holmes, the jobs satisfaction lies in its nuances. Working as a nuclear medicine technologist is a combination of science and artistry, he suggests. Getting a good set of images requires great attention to detail, and theres nothing like the pride one feels when both the patient and the reporting physician are happy with the exam.
been on the receiving end of an exam, theres a good chance youve at least passed by a hospitals medical imaging wing. To some of us, the daunting looking machines are mystifying and maybe even a little scary, but to others theyre engaging evidence of our medical progress. Nuclear medicine deals with the identification and treatment of interior body ills by introducing radioactive substances into the body and then capturing images of the bodys nuanced reactions with sophis-
i fouNd tHAt tHE HARdESt pARt of tHE JoB WAS KEEpiNg AN EMotioNAL diStANcE fRoM tHE pAtiENtS.
ticated instruments. If youve got a steady hand, an inquiring mind and a healthy dose of compassion, maybe a career as a nuclear medicine technologist is for you. on site-specific circumstances, an individuals strengths, advanced education, initiative and willingness to relocate, says Fisher. Just as theres a variety of avenues for practice, theres also a lot of doors that a background in Nuclear Medicine could open, in regards to career advancement. Many people choose to work as a technolo-
WITHIn
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Image: iStockphoto/Thinkstock
LooKInG
23
industryinsiders
soundbites, SpEEcHES,
Whether its managing the story or staying on message, political PR is all about communication and creativity and a career path unlike any other.
THE FICTIONAl PORTRAYAl OF
&S p i N
sions only about 60 years-old, says Karen Dalton, executive director of the Canadian Public Relations Society, [And] there was no PR training until, really, the early 1980s; so prior to that, everyone came from journalism, or human resources, or some other sector, [but] in the last 20 years there are now about 44 [accredited] programs. Key to the success and value of these programs is an emphasis on versatile skill-sets and broad instruction, as well as opportunities for students to build their experience through internships and co-op placements. The students that come to us and the students that leave us are vastly different, confirms Barbara Emodi, a professor at MSVu with extensive experience in both the public and private sectors of communication and media relations. They enter the job market with the resume of someone who works in that area, she adds. Interested students whove majored in social sciences and liberal arts should take heart, as the strongest asset for public relations is having exceptional writing ability and creativity, explains Emodi, a sentiment echoed by other professionals in the field. Two such professionals are Mike Storeshaw and Jesse Brady, who have each earned successful positions in PR despite distinctly contrasting backgrounds. Storeshaw earned a marketing degree from the university of Calgary, Brady has a Masters of English literature; Brady has worked in media with the likes of the National Post and CBC , Storeshaw went straight from school into the office of the OlO (Office of loyal Opposition) under Stockwell Day; Brady is press secretary of the NDP federal caucus while Storeshaw transitioned from serving as Jim Flahertys communications director to being an executive counsel for Ottawa-based PR firm Delta Media. For all their differences of political alignment and career path, the two agree on a number of tips for grads aspiring to follow in their footsteps. Direct experience [] is quite valuable, says Brady, mentioning his own volunteer work with various campaigns, something Storeshaw also emphasizes as being unmatched in terms of networking and hands-on experience. Both agree that its a tough and competitive field, with high stakes and little margin for error, using phrases such as crisis communications and whim of the electorate. Brady also stresses that an understanding of the limitations and expectations of the media is invaluable for those working opposite them; academic understanding is one thing, but a shared experience helps staff create more effective messages and also offers a more accessible career path than strictly PRrelated work. Sincere belief in your employers ideological points is helpful, if not strictly necessary, but its important not to burn too many bridges in the course of your career due to the close-knit nature of the political scene. Theres no disagreement, from student to professor to professional its a tough field. PR workers need to anticipate new threats and come up with innovative strategies, and to be prepared for public blame while remaining an anonymous member of a behindthe-scenes team. Its a stressful job with a steep learning curve, but the consensus is clear: The worst day in political PR, summarizes Storeshaw, echoing a similarly-phrased sentiment by both Brady and Emodi, is better than the worst day in the private sector. by Austin Bahadur
public relations workers can be unflattering, and is rarely accurate; the Nick Naylors and CJ Creggs of the real world arent Machiavellian manipulators or cynical schemers, but rather dedicated professionals on par with their media counterparts. In the political sphere, these jobs can take the form of representing elected officials, non-partisan ministries, or even NGOs, all in the name of facilitating greater understanding and ensuring that the public is aware and informed. Increasingly, specialized PR programs have begun appearing at post-secondary institutions, ranging from the university of Reginas professional certificate to Mt. St. Vincents bachelors and masters degrees. Anne Skelding, a graduate of York universitys theatre program and a student of Ryersons certificate in public relations, says that the value of additional academic preparation is crucial. If you had no experience in [the field] you werent going to get a job, she explains, adding, Or if you were going to get a job, you werent going to be able to move up without some extra training. Whereas the public relations workers of the last few decades have come to the trade from diverse and sometimes indirectly related academic backgrounds and work experiences, the increased reliance on social media and the sheer variety of tactics has made specialized programs that much more appealing and needed. Recognize that the profes-
24
Image: iStockphoto/Thiunkstock
www.FishermansFriend.ca
Trademark of Lofthouse of Fleetwood Ltd. Dist. by TFB & Associates Limited, Makham ON L3R 0E7
industryinsiders
The job market out there may look pretty grim, with the world economy in upheaval and too many grads looking at too few vacancies. This same chaos, however, particularly the ripples spreading from it as companies consolidate and liquidate, is actually a sign of corporate renewal, and the insurance industry is the best vantage point from which to observe the brave new world. As a student or new grad, breaking into that industry (or any industry, for that matter) is a daunting prospect. Though brokers seem ubiquitous and self-assured, a simple Googling of insurance buzzwords wont shed any light on the secrets of their success. Instead, aspiring insurers will be rewarded with a seemingly contradictory picture of the business; schools from coast to coast offer certificate programs, diplomas, and even degrees relating to the study of From this perspective, the academic paths in insurance and risk management arent exactly training programs so much as an incubator for individuals who possess the necessary entrepreneurial spirit. [Its] a matter of [having] an open mind, and [being willing] to learn whats actually going on in our industry, describes Hornby. Both Fanshawe and BCIT emphasize their programs connections to regional insurance organizations and a comprehensive yet intensive approach to preparing grads to leap directly into employment. Whether interested grads possess a B.A. in English or a G.E.D. and a few years of customer service, the important thing is whether theyre willing to study up and start making connections. As mentioned earlier, none of the academic programs on offer are strictly necessary to break into a career in insurance, though many fulfill the prerequisites of licensing. Armed with a few study guides, ambitious individuals able to pay the respective fees can become qualified within a few short weeks, assuming they prove sufficiently competent. Organizations such as the Insurance Institute of Canada, the national association of insurance professionals that provides oversight of the industry, offer a wealth of information independent of any single educational institution. However, the real value of enrolling in one of the accredited programs lies in the focused nature of their information delivery and the fast-track they provide for licensing. Edwards highlights the fact that while those who self-study are able to write exams at their own pace, this could easily take years, while a dedicated course ensures a more rapid entry into the workforce. Networking and generalized skills are highly prized, and college programs typically offer a co-op or internship with companies in the region. Through these connections and the emphasis on self-starting, says Edwards, [Were] trying to make a bigger pitch [for] entrepreneurism, to have people think entrepreneurially. The bottom line is that the insurance industry represents what so many are looking for in the wake of the recession: the opportunity to jump into a brand new career and still thrive. Hornby succinctly summarizes the fields appeal to ambitious workers: Insurance is a very lucrative career, because its secure. People always need insurance.
Companies may crumble and consumers lose faith, but there will always be a market for peace of mind and opportunities for insurance entrepreneurs.
insurance
insurance and risk management, but the only real requirements for licensing are determination and a passing grade on the respective exam. Cyndi Hornby, the co-ordinator of Fanshawe Colleges business-insurance programs, and BCITs associate dean of financial management, Tim Edwards, offer some insight into this. [There are] a couple of things... they need to be a people person, they need to be motivated, says Hornby, and Edwards agrees, adding that [They] need to be focused on what they want. Both describe the diverse backgrounds of their students, and the predominance of second career training (students that have already achieved expertise in a different field), which is representative of insurance programs across Canada. As various fields suffer cutbacks and layoffs, professionals look to insurance as one of the few industries that remains strong and, perhaps more importantly, rewards individual effort and enthusiasm above all else. Both Edwards and Hornby explain that the typical or traditional student, right out of high school is rarely seen in an insurance class, the majority being mature students, some of which have professional experience in blue-collar jobs rather than office work.
by Austin Bahadur
26
edu-ma-cation
Down to Business
a rundown of some university programs QuEENS ScHooL of BuSiNESS coast to coast Queens believes that
by Adam Grant
HOW MANY TIMES HAVE YOu WORKED A JOB AND THOuGHT, MAN, I
should run this place. Chances are if you have ever had that thought, you never took advantage of the plethora of Business Schools across Canada. It is in these classrooms where the future leaders and business wiz kids are taught, tested and then released upon the world. lets get down to business now, shall we?
HEc MoNtREAL
Having arrived in 1907, HECs vast history has resulted in 63,000+ graduates that have benefited from more than 35 bachelor, MBA and PhD programs designed to meet the needs of either new students or those in the business world that are looking to forward their careers through further education. However, what makes HEC an even friendlier destination is its ability to meet the needs of a wide crosssection of students through its bilingual business library, not to mention the staff of 250 professors that have authored teaching manuals and spoken at professional and educational conferences. If you prefer changes of scenery now and then while attending classes, then its also worth checking out the Campus Abroad opportunities that take HEC students from Shanghai, to New York, to Paris.
teamwork and support systems are the key to future success. MBA students are instantaneously divided into learning Teams of six or seven students from different walks of life, gender or cultural backgrounds, so that they can experience the diversity that most real workplaces have. Each team will have a Professional Team Coach to provide guidance throughout the duration of the program, while outside the classroom students will have continual access to a Personal Coach, Fitness lifestyle Coach and a Career Coach. Furthermore, to make the transition into this program easier, Pre-MBA Warm up courses in Accounting, Finance and Statistics are available before the first semester begins.
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If youre in the right place, one idea your idea can have a profound impact in far-reaching and unexpected places.
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CREATE AN IMPACT
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28
Brock University
Brock is a rapidly growing University,
offering 41 dynamic Masters and PhD program within 6 academic faculties. With our strong sense of community and personal investment in our students, Brock is a great choice for your graduate education.
thecai.ca
Centennial College
Centennial College is committed to successful
career education. The college offers more than 120 diploma, post-diploma and certificate programs in business, communication and media arts, community and consumer services, engineering technology, health, hospitality and transportation.
Conestoga College
Conestoga has been the number one rated
college in Ontario for nine of the last twelve years. Our graduates get jobs with a job placement rate of well over 90%! We have campuses in Kitchener, Waterloo, Guelph, Stratford, Ingersoll and Cambridge.
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Fanshawe College
If you want to hit the job market with
advanced skills and stand out from the competition, check out Fanshawes Graduate Studies. In less than one year you could have the training you need. These programs complement your post-secondary education so you land not just a job but a career!
Ithaca College
Located in the beautiful Finger Lakes region of New York,
halfway between Toronto and New York City, IC offers 20 graduate degrees, many of which can be completed in 1 year or less, leading to professional certification.
fanshawec.ca/gradstudies
ithaca.edu/gradprograms
Queens University
Queens 50+ graduate programs
provide students with world-class research opportunities and strong support to enrich your educational experience and advance your academic career. Expect an ideal environment to set your ideas in motion.
www.queensu.ca/sgs
schulich.uwo.ca/gradstudies
Sheridan College
Our one-year graduate certificate programs enhance your
diploma or degree with a blend of theoretical knowledge and work experience that fully prepare you to launch your career. Choose from more than 20 programs in the arts, business, technology and community service fields.
Trent University
Trents commitment to research excellence, innovation, and
collaboration has earned us a reputation as a progressive leader in graduate education. Whether we are talking about disciplinary or interdisciplinary programs, Trent is known for nurturing a vibrant intellectual community and scholars who are engaged, critical thinkers.
sheridaninstitute.ca
jobpostings.ca | November/December 2010
trentu.ca/graduatestudies
29
Dave GooDman
BA fRoM tHE uNiVERSity of WEStERN oNtARio, dipLoMA iN SpoRt ANd EVENt MARKEtiNg tHRougH gEoRgE BRoWN coLLEgE.
by Amanda Chajes Youve been to university, and to college. How did they differ for you? My BA was important because it taught me to be an analytical thinker, an independent adult, and an ambitious person. College, however, helped me to narrow out my career path, and taught me the importance of networking. How does networking play a role in your field of work? Volunteer work and networking go hand in hand. Every person I have come into contact with has helped me and I have helped them in return. Thats the beauty of networking, and its applicable to all fields of work, not just mine. Do you have any tips on where or how to network? Be fearless. Introduce yourself to everyone. Mentorship is also a big element in networking. [Mentors] can show you the ropes, and they will help you develop a network that is beneficial to your future in many different capacities. Hoops for Israel; where did you get the idea? The idea was spawned from a project I initiated to raise money for the Canadian Diabetes Association. It only raised $900. In the following year (2006), I applied the same concept to a different charity, expanded my projections, and set higher goals. It went from $900 to $100,250, and has continued to increase every year. What makes this tournament different than other fundraisers? 91 percent of total donations go straight to the cause. Most other fundraisers in Toronto consume 20-40 percent of everything raised in order to host the actual event. What personal character trait enables you to be successful?
DAVE GOODMAN, OR
Your first goal should not be about money. Be patient, because career success requires long term investment.
An ability to work very hard in combination with being passionate about what I do. Anyone is capable of running a huge charity event, spearheading a start-up company, but they have to be passionate in order to generate the working skills. What is "Green Juice?" Green Juice is a platform Im building right now dedicated to environmental change. It is an advocacy and awareness campaign for resourceful lifestyles and practices aimed specifically at the younger 20-something generations. Non-profit work can be tough why is it worth it? Its worth it because I have so many opportunities. I enjoy my work immensely because Im working with great people, and because my work has purpose. What about the monetary pay off? I am not worried about money right now because I realize that what Im doing is so important. One day my work will pay off, but for now, Im thriving because I am helping others, and in this sense I am already a successful person. What advice do you have for people entering the career world? Your first goal should not be about money. Be patient, because career success requires long term investment. If you could go back and change one thing what would it be and why? I would have taken more business courses during my education. It could have given me a more refined understanding of the investment/return aspect of fundraising. [he pauses] And also, I would have hit the gym more. Im pretty scrawny.
Goody to friends, is an outgoing 28 year-old whose work in the nonprofit sector has been markedly successful. In 2007, he founded Hoops for Israel, an annual two day basketball tournament raising money for at-risk youth and families living below the poverty line in Israel. To date it has raised over $350,000, and continues to grow every year. Goodman is back in school for the time being, studying Professional Development in Environmental and Carbon Finance at the university of Toronto, but his career in community involvement and philanthropy has not slowed down for a minute.
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ONION BREATH
GOODBYE
go foR A coASt. AftER ALL tHAt StRESS, WHEtHER it WAS oNE WEEK oR Six, you NEEd to fiNd SoME tiME foR youRSELf.
Deadlines are starting to loom, but for now take a look at the horizon, and get home on time to watch your favourite TV show.
internet for funny stuff (buzzfeed.com is what I recommend) while no one is looking. Ask your boss if you can leave early, and make sure this weekend you get some by Ross Harrhy rest on Friday night, then party on Saturday night. Yes, your work may start to pile up a little bit, and your deadlines are starting to loom, but for Developing your Own now take a look at the Checks and Balances horizon, and get home on time to watch your favourite TV show. Sit back and get some perspective. Have you ever surfed, or at least watched surfing? The kind with a board and an ocean we already touched on the other kind
JLifE
OB
tHiS MoNtH:
relax a little bit. Go for a coast. After all that stress, whether it was one
week or six, you need to find some time for yourself. You worked late getting that project done on time, you satisfied your customers, and the dishes are done! Now its time to take a minute and browse the
32
Find your inner workaholic. Sometimes you just have to get down to work. Projects come against deadlines, customers demand satisfaction, and the dishes need cleaning. You want to get ahead and management expects you to get the job done, so eat lunch at your desk and stay late a few nights this week (the episode you missed on TV will be on the internet anyway). Show them that youre willing to work hard and put in some extra effort to get the job done, and that your job matters to you. Enjoy the thrill of being crunched for time and tired out of your mind. It wont, and it cant keep going like this forever; youll burn yourself out. And if it feels like it will keep going, remember that you also have to
ride the wave. Get it just right. Surfing involves some serious work, but it also involves some serious floating. When you head out into a swell, you lie on a board and paddle your way, and then you wait. You float over the rolling ocean below you and get a perspective on whats happening. Then you see that big wave and you know youre going to have to work to ride it. You position yourself and you start paddling your arms hard with the wave, hit the break and jump up on your feet and work it as hard as you can. Then you relax, keep it steady and paddle your way back out onto the swell until you have to do it again. In your job life, you should aim for gaining that equilibrium that lets you just float at times, and then ride out the big moments when they come. Workaholics work and work, and as a result, yes, their careers might move up and up, but on the flipside their personal lives take a beating. Coasters focus on their lives outside of work, and while their social lives might be intact, their careers can become stagnant and simply a means to an end. Work hard when you need to, but take the time to sit back and gain some perspective, too. If its all perspective all the time youre going to coast through, if youre all work youre going to crash. Ride the waves find that balance. Its good for your constitution. Just dont go eating anyones porridge and sleeping in their bed unless youre invited.
Apply now!
business.humber.ca
If you know, wed like to talk to you. If you dont, wed like to teach you.
Thought about a part-time job after school? Working during summer? Do you like learning new things and helping others? If the answer is yes!, then The Home Depot wants to hear from you. We know that students have a special enthusiasm for learning and earning and building skills that could serve them well in the future. So, as the leading home improvement retailer in Canada, we make sure you have the training and hands-on coaching you need to make it work for you. Now hiring for part-time and seasonal positions. Visit homedepotjobs.ca/student to apply online or nd more information.
We are committed to diversity as an equal opportunity employer.
A. Latex.