Seasoned communicators live by the above maxim! That's why a number of us in federal "PR" are looking forward to meeting interested students at the MSVU Student Cafe later this month. We want to hear from you, and challenge any perceptions that "government communications" is not one of the best career choices a university grad can make today. We want to share some facts, and some fun, about working with the government of Canada.
Come and hear about the mix of experiences, organizations and infinite range of external relations opportunities awaiting those that chose to pursue federal public service.
Looking forward to meeting you,
Beverly Boyd (BPR '84)
Parks Canada
Friday, September 28, 2007
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Do I look like a public servant?
When I first enrolled in the Public Relations program at Mount Saint Vincent University my perception of the PR industry was rather distorted. I envisioned it as an orgy of extravagant dinner parties, product launches, and an endless list of high-profile clients. In words, I saw the PR profession as a never-ending party, kind of like Edina Monsoon on Absolutely Fabulous but without the delusions of grandeur, hideous wardrobe, and frequent drug-use. Suffice to say I had a MAJOR wake up call during my first week of class. I quickly realized that the program was about developing key messages and news releases, not how many bottles of champagne I would need to order for a premiere.
I like to think that I am completely in-tune with the world that surrounds me (maybe I am a bit like Edina Monsoon), but over the years I’ve eaten a lot of crow. Case in point: my complete ignorance of the public service sector. If you had asked me a few years back if I could ever see myself working in the public service sector I would have said, rather abruptly, “Do I look like a public servant?” To my naïve eyes, a public servant was a paper-pushing middle-aged white man or woman, with poor fashion sense (i.e. ladies with shoulder pads in their blouses), 80’s hair, 4 kids and a mortgage. Oh how I was 99.9% wrong!
My changing view, or what I like to call my conversion, began upon completion of my final co-op work term at Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). To my surprise, I liked it! Even more surprising to me was that the vast majority of public servants weren’t anything like the stereotypical image engrained in my mind. The 4 months I spent at the CRA were the most rewarding of my 3 years in the public relations program. I know I sound like a cliché but never have I worked with such an intelligent, hard-working, and most importantly, fun group of people.
Somehow, I must have made an impression on my former colleagues, because while I was travelling in Europe this past summer, trying to figure out what the heck I wanted to do with my life, I received an e-mail from one of my former CRA co-workers. She suggested I contact them if I was planning on coming back to Halifax, as a position was would soon be available in the Communications department. I did just that and now I am back at the CRA, bridged into the public service and having a pretty great time.
The public service may not be the hippest or most glamorous of professions, but it is challenging and most importantly rewarding.
My name is Ryan Demings and I am a public servant.
Ryan Demings
Ryan Demings is currently employed as a Communications Officer with Canada Revenue Agency – Atlantic Regional Office. A lover of tabloids and all things British, Ryan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Social Anthropology from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Public Relations from Mount Saint Vincent University. Although he is not quite sure where he wants to go in life, he finds the public service a suitable career for now. Originally from the sticks (Shelburne, Nova Scotia), Ryan currently resides in Halifax.
I like to think that I am completely in-tune with the world that surrounds me (maybe I am a bit like Edina Monsoon), but over the years I’ve eaten a lot of crow. Case in point: my complete ignorance of the public service sector. If you had asked me a few years back if I could ever see myself working in the public service sector I would have said, rather abruptly, “Do I look like a public servant?” To my naïve eyes, a public servant was a paper-pushing middle-aged white man or woman, with poor fashion sense (i.e. ladies with shoulder pads in their blouses), 80’s hair, 4 kids and a mortgage. Oh how I was 99.9% wrong!
My changing view, or what I like to call my conversion, began upon completion of my final co-op work term at Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). To my surprise, I liked it! Even more surprising to me was that the vast majority of public servants weren’t anything like the stereotypical image engrained in my mind. The 4 months I spent at the CRA were the most rewarding of my 3 years in the public relations program. I know I sound like a cliché but never have I worked with such an intelligent, hard-working, and most importantly, fun group of people.
Somehow, I must have made an impression on my former colleagues, because while I was travelling in Europe this past summer, trying to figure out what the heck I wanted to do with my life, I received an e-mail from one of my former CRA co-workers. She suggested I contact them if I was planning on coming back to Halifax, as a position was would soon be available in the Communications department. I did just that and now I am back at the CRA, bridged into the public service and having a pretty great time.
The public service may not be the hippest or most glamorous of professions, but it is challenging and most importantly rewarding.
My name is Ryan Demings and I am a public servant.
Ryan Demings
Ryan Demings is currently employed as a Communications Officer with Canada Revenue Agency – Atlantic Regional Office. A lover of tabloids and all things British, Ryan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Social Anthropology from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Public Relations from Mount Saint Vincent University. Although he is not quite sure where he wants to go in life, he finds the public service a suitable career for now. Originally from the sticks (Shelburne, Nova Scotia), Ryan currently resides in Halifax.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
What’s (or Who’s) Behind the News?
Did you see the scaly, evil looking creature with menacing teeth cladding the front page of the Chronicle Herald yesterday (September 25th)? This fish along with important Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and Government of Canada messages also appeared in various other newspapers across the country; as well as on several web news pages, and regional television and radio news stations.
A media relations success, that’s clear… but who and what was behind this news story? The answer: federal communicators and a lot of hard work. To have a feature-type story (results of a recent scientific research mission in the Sable Gully) like this receive prominent regional and national media attention you must have previously developed good relations with journalists and news outlets. You must consider journalists needs, modern electronic media sources and a host of other factors. A lot of work happens behind the scenes.
Don’t get me wrong – it’s a load of fun to work on an initiative like this. I had the opportunity to (with the assistance of your esteemed classmate Luke Gaulton) interact with local and national media, organize a press conference, prep spokespersons and then immediately see the results with positive media stories.
However, as we all know, news stories aren’t always this positive; this is when our jobs are even more challenging. Trying to put out media fires is not an unusual task here at DFO and usually involves writing key messages, contacting journalists and prepping spokespersons. Again, a lot of behind the scenes work.
As the Acting Senior Communications Advisor for DFO Maritimes Region, media relations is a huge part of my job. The importance of good media relations is largely recognized throughout the Government of Canada.
Many people don’t realize that a large percentage of articles in today’s paper and a significant number of stories on tonight’s supper time news are a result of hard work by federal communicators.
A job in media relations is exciting and challenging. Personally, I believe I have an awesome job! I continuously learn new things, am constantly challenged and enjoy the people I work with.
I look forward to further discussing media relations with you during the café!
Chastity McKinnon
Chastity McKinnon is a (not so) recent graduate from the MSVU Public Relations Program. She is the Acting Sr. Communications Advisor for DFO Maritimes Region, where she has worked for the past seven years. Chastity also worked in a communications capacity with Environment Canada and the Nova Scotia provincial government. During the upcoming Student Networking Café Chastity and Glenn Chamberlain will present on Media Relations and Monitoring.
A media relations success, that’s clear… but who and what was behind this news story? The answer: federal communicators and a lot of hard work. To have a feature-type story (results of a recent scientific research mission in the Sable Gully) like this receive prominent regional and national media attention you must have previously developed good relations with journalists and news outlets. You must consider journalists needs, modern electronic media sources and a host of other factors. A lot of work happens behind the scenes.
Don’t get me wrong – it’s a load of fun to work on an initiative like this. I had the opportunity to (with the assistance of your esteemed classmate Luke Gaulton) interact with local and national media, organize a press conference, prep spokespersons and then immediately see the results with positive media stories.
However, as we all know, news stories aren’t always this positive; this is when our jobs are even more challenging. Trying to put out media fires is not an unusual task here at DFO and usually involves writing key messages, contacting journalists and prepping spokespersons. Again, a lot of behind the scenes work.
As the Acting Senior Communications Advisor for DFO Maritimes Region, media relations is a huge part of my job. The importance of good media relations is largely recognized throughout the Government of Canada.
Many people don’t realize that a large percentage of articles in today’s paper and a significant number of stories on tonight’s supper time news are a result of hard work by federal communicators.
A job in media relations is exciting and challenging. Personally, I believe I have an awesome job! I continuously learn new things, am constantly challenged and enjoy the people I work with.
I look forward to further discussing media relations with you during the café!
Chastity McKinnon
Chastity McKinnon is a (not so) recent graduate from the MSVU Public Relations Program. She is the Acting Sr. Communications Advisor for DFO Maritimes Region, where she has worked for the past seven years. Chastity also worked in a communications capacity with Environment Canada and the Nova Scotia provincial government. During the upcoming Student Networking Café Chastity and Glenn Chamberlain will present on Media Relations and Monitoring.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
The Federal Government: A cubical village with bad suits and tight buns? I think not!
It is sad really that when one thinks of a job in the Federal Government, they think “snore!” They think of a cramped little cubicle village, with air conditioning turned way too high, men in bad suits, and women with tight buns, all in a space that is gray as far as the eye can see. The outside perception is more of a penitentiary than profession.
As a former co-op student with the “Fed’s” through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) I can tell you first hand, the perception could not be further away from reality.
Through my university co-op program, I was chosen for a four month co-op with ACOA in 2007. On my first day, suit clad and brief case carrying, I arrived in a panic to an elevator that refused to take me to the correct floor and was terrified “The Man” would fire me, or at the least dock my pay.
Flustered and in disarray, I arrived at the ACOA office to a surprise. I was welcomed by an excited face that explained how happy they were to have me there. More surprising, the face was not wearing a tight bun, a bad suit or sitting in a cubicle!
It seemed my perceptions would have to change.
How could they not? From day one it was explained to me how students were seen as a breath of fresh air, a light, an energy that is looked forward to each four months when new students join the team. The idea was that new students bring in new stories, experiences and thoughts with them to the office.
Kind of like Christmas, but with work instead of presents!
Also surprising, my duties included helping to create a sense of comradery among the staff by taking photos, conducting interviews, and writing stories about what they were up to outside of work, and similarities they had.
“Wait,” I thought initially. “The Man”, allows these things?” Well it turned out he did. Furthermore, “The Man” for ACOA, was a woman. No longer a boys club, the Federal Government was a diverse work environment encompassing people of all shape, sizes, races, cultures and sexes. It was a place I felt welcome and could really see myself in when I graduated.
I did a complete about face. With social events, teamwork, tremendous amounts of inclusion, and a work environment where you could really make friends, it was so nice, I did it twice!
Here I am on another work term at another ACOA office, and I’m lovin’ it!
Niki Toomey, ACOA Junior Communications Officer, January-April 2007
As a former co-op student with the “Fed’s” through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) I can tell you first hand, the perception could not be further away from reality.
Through my university co-op program, I was chosen for a four month co-op with ACOA in 2007. On my first day, suit clad and brief case carrying, I arrived in a panic to an elevator that refused to take me to the correct floor and was terrified “The Man” would fire me, or at the least dock my pay.
Flustered and in disarray, I arrived at the ACOA office to a surprise. I was welcomed by an excited face that explained how happy they were to have me there. More surprising, the face was not wearing a tight bun, a bad suit or sitting in a cubicle!
It seemed my perceptions would have to change.
How could they not? From day one it was explained to me how students were seen as a breath of fresh air, a light, an energy that is looked forward to each four months when new students join the team. The idea was that new students bring in new stories, experiences and thoughts with them to the office.
Kind of like Christmas, but with work instead of presents!
Also surprising, my duties included helping to create a sense of comradery among the staff by taking photos, conducting interviews, and writing stories about what they were up to outside of work, and similarities they had.
“Wait,” I thought initially. “The Man”, allows these things?” Well it turned out he did. Furthermore, “The Man” for ACOA, was a woman. No longer a boys club, the Federal Government was a diverse work environment encompassing people of all shape, sizes, races, cultures and sexes. It was a place I felt welcome and could really see myself in when I graduated.
I did a complete about face. With social events, teamwork, tremendous amounts of inclusion, and a work environment where you could really make friends, it was so nice, I did it twice!
Here I am on another work term at another ACOA office, and I’m lovin’ it!
Niki Toomey, ACOA Junior Communications Officer, January-April 2007
Monday, September 24, 2007
When It Hits the Fan…You’re There!
I’ve got a great job. As the Regional Director of the Government of Canada Regional Communications Office (try saying that every time you introduce yourself…), I get to work with folks across the federal government, both in communications and in operations in general. One of the things we’re working on right now is an updated plan for emergency communications, threading together all the various government departments and agencies (like the RCMP, Canadian Forces, Health Canada, Environment Canada, Transport, even Stats Canada) in a system to work and communicate together better when things get tough. And here in Atlantic Canada, we know emergencies can happen at any time – Hurricane Juan, White Juan, SwissAir Flight 111, the arrival of the Kosovo refugees, and the planes which landed here after September 11 – all these events caused federal communicators to swing into action and work together to communicate important messages to the public. But the fact is, many of the communicators who handled these critical events won’t still be on the job to handle the hurricane, the plane crash, or the outbreak of some nasty virus which will happen in the next few years. They’ll be retired, or will have moved on to new challenges. It’ll be a communicator who started last year with Public Safety Canada, or one who is still studying at the Mount who will be there, at the centre of a media scrum or pulling a long shift at the Rescue Coordination Centre, crafting and delivering the messages the public is eager to hear, or which need to know to keep them safe. All through my military and public service career, I have found working in communications during emergencies to be the most satisfying and rewarding part of my job. And I kind of envy the young communicator who is just about to take up the challenge to work with the federal government – they’ve got all that satisfaction still ahead of them.
Glenn Chamberlain
Glenn Chamberlain works for the Treasury Board Secretariat office in Halifax. He also worked for Justice Canada, following his twenty year career with the Canadian Forces Public Affairs Branch.
Glenn Chamberlain
Glenn Chamberlain works for the Treasury Board Secretariat office in Halifax. He also worked for Justice Canada, following his twenty year career with the Canadian Forces Public Affairs Branch.
Friday, September 21, 2007
After my first year of university I set out to find a summer job. I managed to get a few interviews with employers in the private sector. Six years later, I still remember one of my interviews with a retail manager that went particularly badly. The manager read over my resume as I sat waiting with a big grin on my face. I was sure she was going to be impressed....but I was wrong! She looked up at me and said in a grumpy tone “Is all this volunteer and extracurricular stuff going to get in the way of work?!?” Shocked, I responded “Ummmm….ahhhhh, work will definitely be the priority but… eh… volunteer and extra-curricular activities help me be a well rounded individual.” I was still trying to sell myself! The manager wasn’t all that interested in me being 'well-rounded' nor was she interested in what I would get out of the job. It didn’t take long to realize that I was no longer interested in working there. I wanted to work hard but get something more than a paycheque in return. Was I dreaming?
A few weeks after that disastrous and discouraging interview, I was lucky enough to find a summer job with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). I worked there for two summers and I am currently doing my second work term at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) in the Maritimes Region Communications Branch. My experience working for the Government of Canada has been amazing. I’ve had so many opportunities to refine existing skills and develop new ones.
At DFO I always feel part of the team but people acknowledge that I’m a student by making efforts to provide me with as many learning experiences as possible. For example, on my first work term with DFO, I did a French course one day a week. Don’t get me wrong, students are put to work in helping the Communications Branch achieve its goals but my manager and the other DFO employees are always on the lookout for opportunities for me to gain new experiences.
These new experiences I speak of haven’t just been something new to add to my cover letter. No, they've been much more than that… they’ve also been a lot of fun. For example, I assisted a DFO Communications Manager when the Minister of Public Safety, Stockwell Day, launched the Tsunami Warning System was at the Maritimes Museum of the Atlantic. I also travelled to Saint John, New Brunswick to assist with Minister Greg Thompson's announcement to designate the Musquash Estuary as a marine protected area. Currently I am assisting with preparations for the Bedford Institute of Oceanography's Open House which in the past has attracted up to 35,000 visitors! At DFO, there is never a dull moment and always plenty of opportunity to learn.
I strongly encourage you to attend the Networking Café where you can learn lots more about working for the federal government.
Luke
PS: In addition to all the wonderful opportunities and experiences, you also get paid pretty well. That certainly doesn’t hurt.
Luke Gaulton is from St. John's Newfondland and is in the final year of his Public Relations degree at Mount Saint Vincent University. He has a previous degree in political science from Memorial University. He is currently on his final work term with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, where they don't frown upon, but in fact encourage, the fact he is a political science nerd who wants something out of a job.
A few weeks after that disastrous and discouraging interview, I was lucky enough to find a summer job with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). I worked there for two summers and I am currently doing my second work term at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) in the Maritimes Region Communications Branch. My experience working for the Government of Canada has been amazing. I’ve had so many opportunities to refine existing skills and develop new ones.
At DFO I always feel part of the team but people acknowledge that I’m a student by making efforts to provide me with as many learning experiences as possible. For example, on my first work term with DFO, I did a French course one day a week. Don’t get me wrong, students are put to work in helping the Communications Branch achieve its goals but my manager and the other DFO employees are always on the lookout for opportunities for me to gain new experiences.
These new experiences I speak of haven’t just been something new to add to my cover letter. No, they've been much more than that… they’ve also been a lot of fun. For example, I assisted a DFO Communications Manager when the Minister of Public Safety, Stockwell Day, launched the Tsunami Warning System was at the Maritimes Museum of the Atlantic. I also travelled to Saint John, New Brunswick to assist with Minister Greg Thompson's announcement to designate the Musquash Estuary as a marine protected area. Currently I am assisting with preparations for the Bedford Institute of Oceanography's Open House which in the past has attracted up to 35,000 visitors! At DFO, there is never a dull moment and always plenty of opportunity to learn.
I strongly encourage you to attend the Networking Café where you can learn lots more about working for the federal government.
Luke
PS: In addition to all the wonderful opportunities and experiences, you also get paid pretty well. That certainly doesn’t hurt.
Luke Gaulton is from St. John's Newfondland and is in the final year of his Public Relations degree at Mount Saint Vincent University. He has a previous degree in political science from Memorial University. He is currently on his final work term with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, where they don't frown upon, but in fact encourage, the fact he is a political science nerd who wants something out of a job.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Turning challenge into Co-opportunity in Ottawa
I have always had a love-hate affair with federal government jobs. They tempt you with promises of higher-than average salaries for young people, cushy job descriptions, your own cubicle, and a number of holidays and benefits to enjoy. Getting one of these jobs is like finding a kind of Holy Grail, so it almost seems.
Sadly, actually getting your hands on a position can be a long, complicated process. Since I don’t speak any French, I learned quickly that the student bridging process would be my best option for launching a career with the government. The Mount’s co-op program was my ticket inside. For me, it was a match made in heaven.
My co-ops were rich in experience. All three of them were with departments at home in Ottawa. As a co-op student, I learned a lot about myself, and the kind of communicator I want to be. The experience I got was really priceless to me because it went beyond about learning to write a better fact sheet, or such, but about making myself matter—to be both a valued, and a valuable member of the team. It became all about being a communications advisor, which in the end is what all communicators want.
I earned some amazing professional references through my co-op networks too. The combination of experience and reputation I developed directly resulted in achieving my ultimate goal, which I finally realized this May.
After some long years of hunting, hoping, and persevering, in May I was rewarded with a full time, permanent (indeterminate), English-only position with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). I had finally found my grail. Yes, it can happen. I’m the proof.
The Communications Community Office’s (CCO) bridging assistance was instrumental in finding my Communicators Officer position. I spent 20 minutes sprucing up my resume, submitted it to their pool of new grads, and was called directly by the CBSA. Two days later the job was mine. It’s the fastest position, either part time or professionally, I have ever found.
I encourage you to follow in my footsteps. Working for the federal government can be very satisfying. Beyond the pay and benefits, you have an opportunity to work for Canadians, for your families, your friends, for all of us. Our sole purpose as federal public servants is to help make Canada a better place. “Servants” is indeed an appropriate title. Every day the work that I do at the CBSA works to keep Canadians safe from threats, and our economy healthy. I don’t work to make some boss I’ll never meet, sitting in a big leather chair, richer. I work to make Canada itself, a rich, beautiful place to live. What better reason to come to work?
For the most part, the people you will meet will be the best in the country, and willing to help and mentor you every step of the way.
Use the resources you have at hand…your co-op program, the CCO, and your networks. The bridging program is your best avenue for getting in on this professional environment. And if you come to Ottawa, drop me a line. I’m always ready to show off my belle ville to newcomers. See you in October in Halifax!
- Melanie Reasbeck
Melanie Reasbeck is a recent graduate of the BPR program at Mount Saint Vincent University. Although raised in rural Ontario, she has been living and working professionally in Ottawa for about 10 years, with a three-year hiatus in Halifax for school. In her early thirties and mostly married, Melanie developed a savvy for public relations, writing and current events after working for a national not-for-profit organization promoting recreation opportunities and healthy living for Canadians. She also holds a diploma in Business Administration (Marketing). When not sitting in front of her computer, Melanie enjoys the outdoor life, and romps with an international medieval recreation society, the Society for Creative Anachronism. Be a Viking and conquer all comers with reckless abandon. :)
Sadly, actually getting your hands on a position can be a long, complicated process. Since I don’t speak any French, I learned quickly that the student bridging process would be my best option for launching a career with the government. The Mount’s co-op program was my ticket inside. For me, it was a match made in heaven.
My co-ops were rich in experience. All three of them were with departments at home in Ottawa. As a co-op student, I learned a lot about myself, and the kind of communicator I want to be. The experience I got was really priceless to me because it went beyond about learning to write a better fact sheet, or such, but about making myself matter—to be both a valued, and a valuable member of the team. It became all about being a communications advisor, which in the end is what all communicators want.
I earned some amazing professional references through my co-op networks too. The combination of experience and reputation I developed directly resulted in achieving my ultimate goal, which I finally realized this May.
After some long years of hunting, hoping, and persevering, in May I was rewarded with a full time, permanent (indeterminate), English-only position with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). I had finally found my grail. Yes, it can happen. I’m the proof.
The Communications Community Office’s (CCO) bridging assistance was instrumental in finding my Communicators Officer position. I spent 20 minutes sprucing up my resume, submitted it to their pool of new grads, and was called directly by the CBSA. Two days later the job was mine. It’s the fastest position, either part time or professionally, I have ever found.
I encourage you to follow in my footsteps. Working for the federal government can be very satisfying. Beyond the pay and benefits, you have an opportunity to work for Canadians, for your families, your friends, for all of us. Our sole purpose as federal public servants is to help make Canada a better place. “Servants” is indeed an appropriate title. Every day the work that I do at the CBSA works to keep Canadians safe from threats, and our economy healthy. I don’t work to make some boss I’ll never meet, sitting in a big leather chair, richer. I work to make Canada itself, a rich, beautiful place to live. What better reason to come to work?
For the most part, the people you will meet will be the best in the country, and willing to help and mentor you every step of the way.
Use the resources you have at hand…your co-op program, the CCO, and your networks. The bridging program is your best avenue for getting in on this professional environment. And if you come to Ottawa, drop me a line. I’m always ready to show off my belle ville to newcomers. See you in October in Halifax!
- Melanie Reasbeck
Melanie Reasbeck is a recent graduate of the BPR program at Mount Saint Vincent University. Although raised in rural Ontario, she has been living and working professionally in Ottawa for about 10 years, with a three-year hiatus in Halifax for school. In her early thirties and mostly married, Melanie developed a savvy for public relations, writing and current events after working for a national not-for-profit organization promoting recreation opportunities and healthy living for Canadians. She also holds a diploma in Business Administration (Marketing). When not sitting in front of her computer, Melanie enjoys the outdoor life, and romps with an international medieval recreation society, the Society for Creative Anachronism. Be a Viking and conquer all comers with reckless abandon. :)
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Confessions of a Teenage Bureaucrat
I actually have only two confessions to make. One, I’m not a teenager, I just thought it was a clever title, and two, I love being a bureaucrat. There I said it.
Now, I know that it’s not polite to brag about loving ones job with government, but let me assure you, it’s been a long time coming.
In fact, it started back in sixth grade when my class had to write speeches about who our hero was and why, and then read them out loud in front of everyone. Most kids picked Wayne Gretzky or Mario Lemieux or Mr. T. I can’t remember who all my classmates selected, but I definitely remember that I was the only one who picked Pierre Trudeau.
What I’m saying is; I’ve always been infatuated with Canada and things that are uniquely Canadian, and although I didn’t know it at that young age, I was going to love working for Canada too.
And really, that’s one of the best things about being a public servant, your boss is Canada. Doing a good job means making your own country a better place to live.
Not to mention the fact that as a Communications Officer with the government I’ve been able to play an important role in my department’s internal relations programs, special events planning and I’ve even had the opportunity to work with the media.
Ultimately though, those are just some of the other reasons why I’ve stayed with the federal government for all three of my work-terms (and even part-time while in class finishing up my Bachelor of Public Relations). The big part of my job that keeps me coming back is that I get to be proud of the work I’m doing.
And honestly, there aren’t that many other jobs that, once you’ve worked there, allow you to put “made a difference in the lives of fellow Canadians” on your resume.
- Aaron Bower
Aaron Bower is from Halifax, Nova Scotia and is in the final year of his Public Relations degree at Mount Saint Vincent University. He has a previous degree in Political Science from Dalhousie University and is currently on his final work term with the Department of Public Works and Government Services Canada. After graduation, Aaron is hoping to stay in Halifax and to continue his work in the public service.
Now, I know that it’s not polite to brag about loving ones job with government, but let me assure you, it’s been a long time coming.
In fact, it started back in sixth grade when my class had to write speeches about who our hero was and why, and then read them out loud in front of everyone. Most kids picked Wayne Gretzky or Mario Lemieux or Mr. T. I can’t remember who all my classmates selected, but I definitely remember that I was the only one who picked Pierre Trudeau.
What I’m saying is; I’ve always been infatuated with Canada and things that are uniquely Canadian, and although I didn’t know it at that young age, I was going to love working for Canada too.
And really, that’s one of the best things about being a public servant, your boss is Canada. Doing a good job means making your own country a better place to live.
Not to mention the fact that as a Communications Officer with the government I’ve been able to play an important role in my department’s internal relations programs, special events planning and I’ve even had the opportunity to work with the media.
Ultimately though, those are just some of the other reasons why I’ve stayed with the federal government for all three of my work-terms (and even part-time while in class finishing up my Bachelor of Public Relations). The big part of my job that keeps me coming back is that I get to be proud of the work I’m doing.
And honestly, there aren’t that many other jobs that, once you’ve worked there, allow you to put “made a difference in the lives of fellow Canadians” on your resume.
- Aaron Bower
Aaron Bower is from Halifax, Nova Scotia and is in the final year of his Public Relations degree at Mount Saint Vincent University. He has a previous degree in Political Science from Dalhousie University and is currently on his final work term with the Department of Public Works and Government Services Canada. After graduation, Aaron is hoping to stay in Halifax and to continue his work in the public service.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
“I’ll never EVER work for the government!”
My father, a public servant of almost thirty years, would roll his eyes every time I started one of my well-known rants about what I believed to be a boring, stuffy way to make a living. “Do you even know how long it takes to get a single-paged document approved?”
After twelve months of balancing a variety of tasks and responsibilities with two busy nonprofit organizations in Halifax, Nova Scotia, I had convinced myself that government timelines simply weren’t up to my fast-paced standards. The fact that I was writing off our country’s largest employer offering the widest range of employment opportunities in Canada hadn’t even occurred to me. To make matters even more embarrassing, these conclusions were all made without ever having worked even a day for the Government of Canada.
In September 2006, I found myself at the head office of the Public Health Agency of Canada beginning the final co-op term of my Bachelor of Public Relations. The modern building, one of three housing the young Agency in Ottawa, was anything but stuffy. Instead, it was flooded with natural light, new technology, and eager, motivated professionals bravely tackling international issues including avian and pandemic flu, fetal alcohol syndrome, senior safety, and HIV/AIDS prevention, among many others.
As part of the team, I was surrounded by about 35 communicators and marketers, each with extensive knowledge and experience in ensuring the promotion and protection of the health of Canadians. These men and women were always quick to answer any question I had – whether it was about government protocol or the effectiveness of immunization – and were happy to bring me on board in developing plans and materials for emergency measures operations, multi-million dollar investments, and new quarantine legislation. Certainly not the dull paper-shuffling that I had envisioned!
Public Health Agency employees, when they’re not facilitating technological and medical breakthroughs, are also notably engaged in their communities, raising thousands of dollars for the United Way through creative events with hilarious results. From an ‘Amazing Race’ sending my teammate and I dashing through cubicles like mice in a maze, to the Halloween competition that inspired my Fluey costume (Huey, Dewey and Louie’s bird-flu infected cousin), the PHAC office was dynamic, light-hearted and a wonderful place to spend four months. If that’s not enough reason to look into working for the government’s healthiest agency, the on-site gym access and fully-stocked cafeteria and grill – daily variety of fresh salad choices and cookies the size of your face – should be enough to sweeten the deal.
As for me, my time spent with the Government of Canada continues to be reflected in the quality and professionalism of my work. My four months in a federal position added substantially to my résumé and portfolio, making me much more appealing for employment in any sector. Upon finishing classes this past summer, I’ve been working for a crown corporation, no doubt thanks to my federal history, and I continue to benefit from the lessons learned through my government experience.
Expand your boundaries and open a world of opportunities with the Government of Canada. Just don’t tell my dad he was right – he’ll never let me live it down!
- Benjamin Boudreau
Benjamin Boudreau is a recent graduate of the public relations program at Mount Saint Vincent University. Benjamin is presently a communications officer for Canada Post Corporation based out of Halifax, Nova Scotia. In his off hours, he volunteers for the All Rights Reserved Literary Journal and writes content for his online home, http://bensprblog.blogspot.com.
After twelve months of balancing a variety of tasks and responsibilities with two busy nonprofit organizations in Halifax, Nova Scotia, I had convinced myself that government timelines simply weren’t up to my fast-paced standards. The fact that I was writing off our country’s largest employer offering the widest range of employment opportunities in Canada hadn’t even occurred to me. To make matters even more embarrassing, these conclusions were all made without ever having worked even a day for the Government of Canada.
In September 2006, I found myself at the head office of the Public Health Agency of Canada beginning the final co-op term of my Bachelor of Public Relations. The modern building, one of three housing the young Agency in Ottawa, was anything but stuffy. Instead, it was flooded with natural light, new technology, and eager, motivated professionals bravely tackling international issues including avian and pandemic flu, fetal alcohol syndrome, senior safety, and HIV/AIDS prevention, among many others.
As part of the team, I was surrounded by about 35 communicators and marketers, each with extensive knowledge and experience in ensuring the promotion and protection of the health of Canadians. These men and women were always quick to answer any question I had – whether it was about government protocol or the effectiveness of immunization – and were happy to bring me on board in developing plans and materials for emergency measures operations, multi-million dollar investments, and new quarantine legislation. Certainly not the dull paper-shuffling that I had envisioned!
Public Health Agency employees, when they’re not facilitating technological and medical breakthroughs, are also notably engaged in their communities, raising thousands of dollars for the United Way through creative events with hilarious results. From an ‘Amazing Race’ sending my teammate and I dashing through cubicles like mice in a maze, to the Halloween competition that inspired my Fluey costume (Huey, Dewey and Louie’s bird-flu infected cousin), the PHAC office was dynamic, light-hearted and a wonderful place to spend four months. If that’s not enough reason to look into working for the government’s healthiest agency, the on-site gym access and fully-stocked cafeteria and grill – daily variety of fresh salad choices and cookies the size of your face – should be enough to sweeten the deal.
As for me, my time spent with the Government of Canada continues to be reflected in the quality and professionalism of my work. My four months in a federal position added substantially to my résumé and portfolio, making me much more appealing for employment in any sector. Upon finishing classes this past summer, I’ve been working for a crown corporation, no doubt thanks to my federal history, and I continue to benefit from the lessons learned through my government experience.
Expand your boundaries and open a world of opportunities with the Government of Canada. Just don’t tell my dad he was right – he’ll never let me live it down!
- Benjamin Boudreau
Benjamin Boudreau is a recent graduate of the public relations program at Mount Saint Vincent University. Benjamin is presently a communications officer for Canada Post Corporation based out of Halifax, Nova Scotia. In his off hours, he volunteers for the All Rights Reserved Literary Journal and writes content for his online home, http://bensprblog.blogspot.com.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Welcome to the Halifax Student Networking Café blog
Hi, my name is Alex Smith. I’m the Director of Communications and Outreach for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) in Nova Scotia and Chair of the Halifax Student Networking Café Coordinating Committee.
You might be wondering what this is all about. It’s pretty simple. Communications professionals working in the federal public service are inviting you to a unique learning and networking activity.
The Halifax Student Networking Café will take place Friday, October 12th from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Faculty Lounge and Auditorium A on the MSVU campus.
Come and meet experts working in areas of communications such as Issues Management, Community Relations, Media Monitoring, Science-Based Communications and Internal Communications.
More details will be available by the end of the month. We invite you to continue to visit this blog, which will be updated almost daily. You will read about BPR students who have worked with federal departments and agencies, students who have been bridged into the Government of Canada as well as from members of the federal communications community.
Two of your fellow students currently on co-op work terms, Evelyn Schlosser and Luke Gaulton, are working behind the scenes to help us make this networking café a success.
So sign up now and join us on October 12th. Please check in on the blog, or subscribe to read the latest posts from your fellow students and my colleagues.
Our guest blogger for September 18th is Benjamin Boudreau – stay tuned.
Alex Smith
Chair
Halifax Student Networking Café
Coordinating Committee
You might be wondering what this is all about. It’s pretty simple. Communications professionals working in the federal public service are inviting you to a unique learning and networking activity.
The Halifax Student Networking Café will take place Friday, October 12th from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Faculty Lounge and Auditorium A on the MSVU campus.
Come and meet experts working in areas of communications such as Issues Management, Community Relations, Media Monitoring, Science-Based Communications and Internal Communications.
More details will be available by the end of the month. We invite you to continue to visit this blog, which will be updated almost daily. You will read about BPR students who have worked with federal departments and agencies, students who have been bridged into the Government of Canada as well as from members of the federal communications community.
Two of your fellow students currently on co-op work terms, Evelyn Schlosser and Luke Gaulton, are working behind the scenes to help us make this networking café a success.
So sign up now and join us on October 12th. Please check in on the blog, or subscribe to read the latest posts from your fellow students and my colleagues.
Our guest blogger for September 18th is Benjamin Boudreau – stay tuned.
Alex Smith
Chair
Halifax Student Networking Café
Coordinating Committee
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