It seems more companies are hiring interns this summer, perhaps because of the downturn in the economy? Although hiring interns can be a great way to find low cost (no cost) high energy talent, along with it comes a big commitment of time and responsibility.
Employers and students benefit from internships in different ways. Students gain a basic understanding of the rules of the work world, an insider's view to a possible career path and some networking opportunities. For employers, interns can be a valuable asset. They help fill entry level positions and assist employers with innovative ideas and technology.
So how can employers make the most of their time with interns? Here are a few tips for managing interns.
1. Make sure that you are prepared for your intern by putting together a collection of interesting, meaningful projects before they start their first day of work. Keep them busy and productive. If your intern turns projects over quickly, you don't want to be caught empty handed with nothing for them to do.
2. Don't assume that interns know how things are done. Expect that you'll need to give more guidance than with a seasoned employee. Interns today need to understand everything they can prior to starting the actual work- working hours, dress code, employer expectations etc. You might need to explain things that an experienced employee would already know. No playing computer games or hanging out on Facebook; call if you can't come in.
3. Hiring interns requires a great deal of time, both in training and supervising. Don't cut the intern too much slack just because they are low paid/unpaid. Hold them to the same standards you hold your regular staff. You want to avoid an intern whose work is sloppy and needs to be redone.
4. Make sure expectations and goals are clear. Explain why a particular task is important. Encourage your intern to ask questions. Discuss what you hope to accomplish and how it will contribute to your business/department's goals and objectives.
5. Lastly, have a discussion with your intern on what they're hoping to get out of their internship. Most often they are looking for experience, but if they have specific projects in mind, see what you can do to accommodate them.
With some advanced planning, close supervision and treating your intern professionally and respectfully(and expecting the same in return) the intern experience can be a win-win situation for all.