What should you consider when hiring an intern?

July 7, 2022 by Extern

Hiring an intern for your company team can be a great way to expand your team’s capacity, and it gives you a chance to mentor someone who is just starting their career. However, hiring and managing an intern can also be a challenge, especially if it requires a private lease or involves weighing effort against return. If done right, an intern can be as productive as a full-time employee. If not, you might end up with someone who simply checks items off a list without adding true value. The secret to distinguishing between the two? Know what to look out for!

Experience

While experience isn’t everything, it certainly matters to an extent. Look beyond previous internships on a candidate’s resume. Evaluate knowledge gained both in and outside the classroom. Many students only gain real hands-on experience during their assignments, so a range of learning opportunities can show how someone approaches projects and how independently they work. Consider short phone interviews where you can ask about their industry and company knowledge.

Attention to Detail

Often, the first consideration when evaluating an intern candidate is prior experience. However, there’s a better starting point: attention to detail. Think about it: what do you need from an intern? You want someone who can help with important tasks, without having to worry that things will go wrong due to careless mistakes. Attention to detail is essential in an intern.

Willingness to Work and Learn

You can be sure that all your applicants want experience, but not all are genuinely interested in the work. It’s crucial to assess if applicants are simply looking for a CV boost. Fortunately, willingness to work and learn is one of the easier things to assess during an interview. Does the candidate show enthusiasm for the role and the impact they’ll have on the team? Do they ask questions?

Cultural Fit

Finally, regardless of your organization’s size, it’s essential that your intern is a good fit for the team and can maintain a positive working atmosphere. No, it’s not always easy to judge someone’s personality in a single interview, but it’s one of the most important aspects to consider in determining whether they are suitable. It’s a good idea to look up candidates’ profiles on social media. During the interview, ask candidates about their career ambitions and why they chose this particular role and company.