There are so many ways that we can benefit from having interns in your small business. The importance of interns is sometimes overlooked simply because of the word; intern. Not only can interns be of assistance to small business owners; interns can benefit greatly from having the opportunity of participating in an internship. Internships are an opportunity to network with great people and sharpen your skills before entering the workforce. They also help tremendously with figuring out your true passion. Companies often look at them as a way to gain experience and exposure to make a smooth transition into your role when hired (Forbes, 2022). The amount of experience and knowledge that can be gained from an internship is so valuable to the individual participating within the business.
We know the importance of internships for those who partake in them but let’s dive into the benefits of having an intern. Almost all businesses and companies have internship programs and offer the opportunity to those who are interested in joining the specific field. Most companies bring on interns to assist and gain much needed support for their businesses and employees. While providing internships, companies are able to invest in their future success and seek out newer talent needed for upcoming positions. While having an intern is beneficial in many different way; most interns are known for taking on smaller tasks that allow higher-level employees to focus on their other work. Now that we are venturing into more jobs offering multiple services; interns are often take on responsibilities that are much greater than administrative responsibilities. Employers often time want to hire interns to broaden their resumes but also to increase the value of the company.
Here are five great benefits to gain from interns:
A larger workforce
Interns are valuable support and help to current employees, even if tasks given to them have modest levels of responsibility. By taking on tasks as an intern, other colleagues can pursue creative or more advanced projects. As an intern, you can expect tasks that help you learn a new skill or more about the industry and work with fellow employees on specific projects, research or campaigns. Most internships have supervision to provide you with feedback on your work.
Mentorship opportunities
Internship programs give current employees an opportunity to mentor future leaders in the field, and it can promote a healthy work culture and build company morale. Helping teach and develop individuals new to the career can motivate employees and reinvigorate their passion or work ethic and increase effective leadership within the team.
A new perspective
Interns offer a fresh look at a company’s day-to-day business and procedures and can share ideas on strategy, plans, policies and more. As an intern, you can be part of brainstorming sessions and meetings or give input and suggestions to company or internship leaders. You can help organizations apply the latest strategies and techniques in your chosen career field through your education and knowledge. With the growing presence and use of social media, for example, interns can apply their technology skills to bring creative opportunities and ideas for social media marketing or engagement.
Positive publicity
Communities and industries often commend those who provide internships to the next generation of business people. Companies that offer internships can establish or grow their connections with universities and colleges, increasing their visibility on campuses and ability to recruit other students. Internships can also promote community involvement and presence through teaching the prospective workforce and having an impact.
An employee candidate pool
Companies can select and develop future talent through internships and increase their staff retention rates, since many interns secure job offers after their internship ends. As a former intern, you assimilate into the new role faster than an external hire might. Employers can hold various social activities and professional development seminars to learn more about each intern and how they may be a good permanent addition to the team (Indeed Editorial Team, 2023).
Personally, I like providing internships in my company because it gives others the opportunity to see what it’s like to work in a field that they enjoy. It also gives them a chance to understand the ends and outs of how a company may work. There’s so many benefits of interns and internships. Having the right intern(s) for you will assist you in growing your business in more ways than one! Everyone can benefit greatly from an intern and internships.
References
Forbes. (2022, August 12). The Importance Of Internships And The Invaluable Relationships They Bring. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2022/08/12/theimportance-of-internships-and-the-invaluable-relationships-they-bring/?sh=2bea8f287fd1
Indeed Editorial Team. (2023, March 10). What Are the Benefits of Interns and Why Do Companies Hire Them? https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/why-docompanies-hire-interns
