In order to get anything from interns, employers have to devote some time and energy to developing an effective program. According to an article by Registered Rep., advanced planning on the part of the employer can turn interns into a great resource.
With the help of coaching advisers and developing its own intern program at the Oechsli Institute, Registered Rep. came up with five steps you can take to make sure you get the most from your interns:
- Defining the Job. An important first step, this will make sure you have a use for your intern and that they don't spend their time sitting idle, not learning anything or benefiting the company. The job should include regular grunt work and work that challenges the intern intellectually.
- Finding Applicants. You can do this by contacting the career services departments at local colleges and universities. You also can post ads on Craigslist, in your local newspaper, or anywhere else they might be seen by your wanted demographic. Once you find candidates, you should get a feel for what they're looking to experience and learn.
- Screening Candidates. Make sure what you want and what the potential intern wants matches up. It may take a couple interviews to determine whether or not the candidate is willing and capable to complete the tasks you want them to do.
- Establishing Expectations. Be clear about what you expect from your intern. This includes defining hours, daily and weekly tasks they must perform, how they should perform the tasks, how they should dress, who they should report to and how often they should report. It often helps to put these rules on paper as a tangible reminder to the intern.
- Managing the Internship. Maintain regular communication with your intern and make sure they report their progress on a regular basis. This will help both of you to know the job is getting done properly.
