By Employing an intern is a wonderful way to bring in new talent, provide valuable training and experience to a student or recent graduate, and possibly identify future full-time employees. Nevertheless, not all employees are equal.
To ensure you hire a valuable intern who may convert to an employee, here are the top 10 ways to approach the hiring process:
- Start with a clear job description
Your job description should explicitly outline the intern's duties and responsibilities, as well as the required qualifications and skills. Indicate if the position has the potential to transition to a full-time position and what the conversion process would entail.
- Promote the position on university job boards
Students and recent graduates who are actively pursuing internships can be effectively reached through university job boards. Ensure that the position is advertised on relevant employment boards and campus career centers.
- Conduct a thorough interview
The interview is your opportunity to assess the candidate's suitability for the position and the organization. Be sure to ask the candidate open-ended questions that enable them to demonstrate their skills, experience, and character.
- Consider their long-term potential
Consider a candidate's long-term potential with the organization when evaluating them. Consider candidates who are keen to learn, have a strong work ethic, and embody the organization's values and culture.
- Provide a clear onboarding process
A well-defined and organized induction procedure can set the intern up for success from day one. Ensure that the intern has access to all necessary resources and information, and assign a mentor or supervisor to assist them with their work.
- Set goals and expectations
Setting clear objectives and expectations can assist the intern in understanding what is expected of them and what they must achieve to be successful in their role. Set SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, pertinent, and time-bound) objectives and monitor progress frequently.
- Provide training and development opportunities
Training and development opportunities can assist the intern in gaining skills and knowledge, thereby increasing their value to the organization. This may involve attending workshops, seminars, or courses, as well as shadowing and learning from more experienced employees.
- Encourage feedback and communication
Encourage regular and open communication between the intern and their mentor or supervisor. This can help the intern feel supported and valued, and also provide feedback and opportunities for improvement.
- Offer meaningful and challenging projects
Offering meaningful and challenging initiatives can assist the intern in developing their skills and proving their worth to the organization. Ensure that you provide them with initiatives that align with their skills and interests, while also challenging them to step outside of their comfort zone.
- Consider compensation and benefits
Providing meaningful compensation and benefits can demonstrate an organization's commitment to the intern's development, despite the fact that many internships are unfunded or offer minimal compensation. This may involve providing a stipend, transportation privileges, or access to company resources such as gym memberships or opportunities for professional development.
In conclusion, hiring a valued intern who may become an employee necessitates a deliberate and thoughtful strategy. By adhering to these ten strategies, you will be able to identify and recruit a talented and motivated intern who will add value to your organization and be set up for long-term success.
