She Strengthens

Navigating the World of Intern Management: Tips from a Young Professional

As a recent college graduate with limited work experience, I never expected to be supervising an intern. But that’s exactly what happened when Holly, a bright and eager student, joined our team for the summer. Her unexpected arrival was a wake-up call, forcing me to quickly adapt to my new role as a manager.

Clear Expectations: The Key to Success

To ensure a smooth internship experience, it’s essential to establish clear expectations from the outset. Holly’s needs were straightforward: a solid month of 40-hour work weeks, culminating in a capstone paper. Mine, on the other hand, were more complex. I had to identify our department’s strengths and weaknesses to determine how Holly could contribute effectively.

Assigning Meaningful Projects

Assigning specific projects with deadlines helps interns manage their time wisely. I tasked Holly with producing a series of articles and infographics for our organization, which not only kept her engaged but also allowed her to develop valuable skills. By giving interns concrete tasks, you can ensure they deliver tangible results rather than simply “assisting in daily office operations.”

Compensation and Value

The debate around unpaid internships is ongoing, but one thing is certain: there’s no such thing as free work. As Holly was working for college credit, I made sure her tasks were beneficial to her development almost all of the time. This required effort on my part, but it was worth it to see her grow. Remember, your company will either pay for your intern’s time or your time spent mentoring them.

Planning for Success

To respect your intern’s limited time, plan their work week-by-week. A working lunch on their first Friday is an excellent way to start. Use this opportunity to discuss their career goals and expectations, and then hash out their tasks for the coming weeks. This approach may require extra effort, but it’s essential for a productive and fulfilling internship.

Respecting Yourself as a Boss

As a young manager, it’s essential to respect yourself as an expert in your field. If your intern needs guidance beyond your expertise, connect them with someone who can provide it. Treat your intern as you would a new employee, and remember that mentoring them is an opportunity to develop your own skills as a manager and team player.

The Value of Internships

Internships often get a bad rap, but they can be incredibly valuable for both the intern and the organization. By providing a positive experience, you can not only develop your intern’s skills but also contribute to your organization’s mission. As someone who has recently been in their shoes, you have the power to give your intern a great professional experience and set them up for success.