As your fall internship program approaches (or perhaps you’ve already started!), your company is likely anticipating a new set of eager interns. Amongst these wide-eyed interns might be top talent, making it all the more important to provide intern benefits so they love your company.
A successful internship program is one designed to benefit and enhance the company, as well as provide the interns with a fulfilling and rewarding experience. It is the latter that some employers fail to recognize the significance of.
There are a number of reasons why your program should offer intern benefits for students and recent graduates. As stated above, you may come across top talent in your new bunch of tech-savvy, current interns. Also, you need to consider the effects of word-of-mouth. Whether the interns are having a good or bad experience, they can and will talk about it. In order to protect and enhance your company’s reputation, a mutually beneficial internship program should exist. Lastly, you will play a role in enriching the lives and careers of Gen Y, the future of our workforce.
Here are some intern benefits to incorporate into your internship program to help the newbies develop a strong bond with your company:
1. Out of the office activities
Most employees, in general, chomp at the bit when it comes to an opportunity to get out of the office. An occasional sporting event or a complimentary dinner at a restaurant can boost employee morale and strengthen relationships.
2. Free food
For some interns, this may be their first experience in the “real” world. You will be amazed how much college students and recent grads appreciate a free, tasty meal. Offering a lunch spread for interns is a great way to let them know you care.
3. Set them up with a mentor
This is an intern benefit that will enhance the cohesiveness of your company, as well. Having a mentor gives interns the guidance they need to be successful at their new role. If the relationship between mentor and intern is a special one, the intern will never forget that bond.
4. Share the spotlight
Set aside time for interns to be able to present their accomplishments and what they have done. Encourage managers or even executives of the company to sit in on these brief presentations. Sharing the spotlight assures interns of the important role they play in the company and will motivate them to perform at their best.
5. Provide constant feedback
Though you may not consider this a benefit, interns will notice how engaging the company is if you take the time to provide feedback. Constructive critiques and positive feedback let the interns know you care; thus, it will keep them on track and boost their productivity.
With these simple intern benefits, you can offer an internship program that students and recent grads will love. When interns love your company, you know you are doing something right!
How does you company provide a fulfilling and rewarding experience for interns? Do you offer any intern benefits to make the experience more enjoyable?
