Human resources marketing and recruiting: Essentials of internship management

Abstract

As demographic realities become more apparent to business and HR leaders, the focus on early-career talent will continue to grow over the next decade. There is a significant investment to manage an internship program, but with good preparation, the investment can strengthen the employer brand and the pipeline of talent from the rising generation. The foundation of a successful program includes meaningful projects and close supervision from engaged managers. With this foundation, appropriate university relationships can be established along with a recruiting process, onboarding, and integration into the organization. Planning should also include a process for high-performing interns to convert to regular employment. An outstanding internship program will hire motivated and talented students who feel embraced by the organization and empowered by their managers to make a positive difference in their roles. And these successful interns will spread positive messages back to their peers and help to enhance the company’s brand.