An electrical connector (10) includes a lock assembly (40) impaired from prematurely moving relative to the connector (10) to trigger deployment of a primary lock (50) of the lock assembly (40), which deployment secures that connector (10) to another connector (10). The lock assembly (40) can be part of a sleeve (41) slidably mounted to the connector (10). The primary lock (50) can include a locking arm (31) that lockably engages the other connector (10) to secure the connectors (20) in a fixed connection. The primary lock (50) is operable in a retracted mode where it does not interfere with movement of the locking arm (31). A secondary lock (60) is operable in a blocked mode where it engages a stop (61) of the other connector (10) to impair movement of the lock assembly (40) relative to the connector (10), and a freed mode where it clears the stop (61) so lock assembly (40) can move relative to the connector (10) to transition to the fixed connection. A related method of use is provided.