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Let’s face it. The business world needs interns.

And I’m not just saying that because I was one once (actually three times). As May and graduations approach, it brings me back to all those summers scrambling to get my resume into pristine shape, picking up my suits from the cleaners and hunting for an internship.

But enough reminiscing. Let’s get to the “here and now”. As the seasons change, so often do the faces of interns looking to gain valuable experience outside of the classroom. Here at 360, we recently bid farewell to a rock star group of spring interns, and are now gearing up for the summer talent to arrive (coping with the lack of interns in between semesters can be rough – but we persevere).

The ROI in interns for 360, and any company for that matter, is clear. Media lists get built and perfected, mailers are shipped, event details are buttoned down, all with the help of interns. But what about the interns’ experience? Was it worth giving up hours that could have been spent doing homework, enjoying the college experience with friends, or simply taking a break from papers and exams? According to a Recent Survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the answer is yes. In 2007, nearly 36 percent of new college graduates were hired by the companies where they previously interned.

Not only are interns gaining valuable hands-on experience, many of them (including myself) are getting jobs! Now that’s what I call time well spent. From personal experience, the hours spent performing internships are worth as much, if not more, as those spent in the classroom. And I have always felt that my contributions to the companies I have worked with, especially 360, truly made a difference and were appreciated. This is what a mutually beneficial work environment between interns and employers produces. Good interns want to be a part of your company and they want to see it thrive.

July 9^th is celebrated as Intern Appreciation Day, but this post couldn’t wait. As the summer internship season gears up, employers should remember that while interns are being given a big opportunity to work FOR your company, they are also there to learn, grow and be PART of the company.
Recruiting expert Dr. John Sullivan makes some great points in his article on Innovative approaches for finding and retaining interns. He lists the “top-10 elements of a compelling internship experience,” including providing meaningful work, opportunities to make a difference and the chance to work with senior executives.

Anyone can make a cup of coffee or open mail, but your interns will shine if given the chance, and the ROI can be big for both employer and intern.

Filed under: 360 Public Relations, PR Industry |