FUSION Halifax’s ‘Mayor on the Spot’
Melissa Noonan // September 21, 2012
On the second Thursday of every month, FUSION Halifax hosts a networking event. On Thursday, September 13, I attended a special gathering that took place at Pier 21 – Mayor on the Spot. But first, a bit of context.
What is Fusion?
According to FUSION Halifax’s Facebook page, the networking group was “created by and for young people who are inspired to make their city a better and more sustainable place to live, work and play. Through its members, volunteer committees and dynamic networks, FUSION Halifax showcases existing opportunities – and unleashes new ones – that encourage civic and community engagement.”
The event
Although several media sources referred to the event as a mayoral debate, this is not an accurate depiction of Mayor on the Spot. It was a job interview with the audience as the panel to determine who deserves the job of mayor, a position described by Natasha Gibb, Chair of FUSION Halifax as, “… the leader, visionary and chief strategist of our city.” The audience will have their say in who deserves the job on October 20, election day.
One by one, the candidates were asked a series of questions by Marsha Andrews, a FUSION board member and recruiter. Just like the normal recruitment process, the other candidates waited outside the interview space for their turn. Andrews touched on topics such as education, work experience, skills and strengths and ended by asking each candidate to give a two minute speech on their vision and platforms for the HRM.
From a PR Perspective
To switch, for a moment, from a journalist’s point of view and write from the perspective of a columist, I found the evening to be quite an interesting opportunity. I had the chance to see what it was like to be in the shoes of a recruiter. As I sat there and thought about who I wanted to fill the shoes of mayor, I noticed all the candidates seemed to have very similar views on what they want for this city. Then I experienced a shift and started looking for a sense of geniality – someone who is relatable. This is what our professors and co-op office team refer to when they say – “the right fit.”
I noticed myself paying less attention to the actual content of their platforms and asking myself things like – did they answer that question? What tone are they using? Inflections? Is there sincerity and enthusiasm behind their words? I listened for the speed and rhythm of speech. I paid attention to their posture and where they were looking when they answered. These are the verbal and non-verbal cues we learned about in Communication: Theory and Practice. This event is the perfect example of putting that theory into practice, and using it to our advantage. By assessing these characteristics of communication, we can determine if we’d be able to build a trusting relationship with one of the candidates.
As PR students and aspiring professionals, our careers depend on building and maintaining relationships with people, organizations, government and private business. Be sure to hone in on all aspects of communication when forming new relationships – it certainly helps you make a more informed decision.
I also suggest becoming part of a networking group such as FUSION Halifax. What better opportunity to meet and network with other young professionals in our city? Not only do you get to meet some pretty awesome people and discover ways we can professionally benefit each other, but you also become more informed about issues and events that affect the HRM – our home.
How to become involved in Fusion events
Website: http://www.fusionhalifax.ca/
