Gearing Up for a Successful Summer Intern Program: Evaluating Your Professional Needs

Summer internship season is almost here, so its time to start thinking about what strategies will help you find a summer intern. Before you start your search, it's imperative to consider what type of internship program you envision for your company, and what type of personality would best carry out those functions. In order to make sure things run as smoothly and effectively as possible, it's a good idea to think about your own management style before you find an intern to fit in with your needs.

'¢ Hands on: You are a "take charge" type of boss who believes in being proactive. Your daily routine includes frequent check-ins and on site visits. Managing an intern may become a bit of a chore if you're tackling too many things at once. You want to find an intern that works well with your management style. Explain to them what you expect, and lay out details and time frames upfront if possible. Also, be sure to let them know that they can come to you for questions and guidance. In order to maximize their working experience they will have to learn through asking questions and receiving direction from their superiors.



'¢ Laissez-faire: You are the type of boss who prefers to give them direction and then let them loose on projects. In order to ensure that your intern program is running effectively, you will need to make sure that your interns have access to you at all times for questions and guidance. It's also great to talk with your intern and ask for them to share their vision with you. This allows you to get a better feel for what areas they are most interested in and how they approach different tasks.



'¢ It's all about them: You are happy to be doing your part to mentor young people. You place value on what you are doing for the next generation, as opposed to what they are bringing to your company. One of the downfalls, however, is that your colleagues or employees may not share your vision. They may develop a bit of animosity towards interns who they feel are not carrying their weight. It is important that you share your vision and expectations with other office members. Explain to them your desire to make your mark on the next generation. Also, make sure that the interns you hire in this type of setting are outgoing, assertive, and know how to communicate effectively. This will keep everyone on the same page, and ensure that your company's productivity level is not compromised.



'¢ It's all about you: You are looking for specific results to fit in with company goals. You want to find an intern who is just as results oriented as you are, and can work with little to no supervision. You may be looking for things such as regular social media updates on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Be clear about your expectations from the very beginning, and stress the importance of an intern who relies on their own wits and can produce great work independently. Employers must be able to assess their own values and work ethics before hiring an intern. Once you are clear about your company's goals and objectives, you are prepared to run a successful summer internship. Make it a point to communicate your interns and encourage them to share their thoughts as well.