Hosting interns can be a valuable opportunity for both the intern and the business, but how should you (as the business) prepare to host your intern? What makes an internship so valuable to businesses and interns? Here are some ways in which both can benefit:
Benefits For The Intern
An internship is a great way to gain valuable work experience and can look good on a resume. It makes it easier for undergraduates or graduates to build a career and it is possible to apply for one during university studies.
Some internships are offered to students who have finished secondary school. As internships are often completed during studies, it is possible to work either full-time or part-time. Some internships aren’t paid, which is why interns may choose to only work part-time to earn money on the side.
Benefits For The Business
Providing paid, or even unpaid, work experience for someone who has none may seem like a strange thing to do for a business or business to buy. However, interns can bring a fresh perspective on your day-to-day operations and strategic direction. Furthermore, interns are typically younger people and so can give new and valuable insights into technologies or platforms like social media.
It’s not just the benefit that individuals can offer while they are on their internship – your interns may turn into already acclimated entry-level starters. This can save you money on advertising job roles twice or more.
So, there are obvious clear benefits for both sides. How should your business prepare for an internship?
Welcoming Interns
Make interns feel welcome, especially on their first day. By putting together a welcome pack and introducing them to their colleagues, you can show your appreciation for their talents and skills. The welcome pack can include information on the business and explain some details about the internship as well as what may be possible after the internship is completed.
Plan Their Timeline
Interns often don’t have much or any previous work experience, which is why a schedule with goals can help them find a routine faster. It is a good idea to create a project timeline that they can follow and know which tasks to complete. Being introduced to different departments can be helpful and enable interns to get to know a company.
Preparing Their Workspace
Setting up their computer and workplace before the first day of the internship can make things run much more smoothly. If working in potentially hazardous environments, such as a warehouse or construction site, it is imperative that interns receive the proper protective gear, such as eye and face protection or helmets. Employers are obliged to supply the right equipment, clothing and protection needed in the work environment to keep interns and other employees safe.
Setting Goals
While you may feel like you don’t want to give interns too much work in the beginning, too few tasks may quickly lead to boredom. Next to developing a schedule and plan, set goals to reach by a certain date or time. This can motivate them to accomplish tasks faster and become more ambitious during the internship. With a project management certification, you can streamline this goal setting process as well.
Ensure Current Employees Know How To Help
Friendly co-workers can help make interns feel more at ease. By letting your existing employees know how they may be able to offer help to the intern, they can quickly provide support or guidance where it is needed.
There are several steps to properly prepare to host an intern for your company. First, you must understand the value of an internship, as well as the benefits it has for both your business and the intern. Next, you should make your interns feel welcome. To do this, you can create a welcome pack. Of course, you should also make sure your employees are friendly for the new team member as well. In addition, it is essential to plan your intern’s timeline so they have a clear understanding of what to expect from the experience. Moreover, you should also spend some time to prepare their workspace. Furthermore, setting goals for your intern is key to their success at your company. Additionally, ensure your employees know how to help the intern. Follow these steps to prepare to host an intern at your company.