Tips on Working with Interns
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Introducing an Intern to the Workplace
Orient the student to the workplace - High quality supervision is the key to success. The following actions will help the student have a positive learning experience:
- Describe the work to the done. Discuss the overall functions of the organizaiton and of the particular site to which the student is assigned. Provide a written job description if available. how the student how his or her job relates to that of others at the same site. The mentor is responsible for the day-to-day supervision of the intern and for ensuring that there is sufficient, meaningful work to occupy all of the student's time on the job.
- Introduce the student to each of his or her co-workers and explain their jobs. Show the young person where he or she is to work. Try to put them at ease. These introductions will have a dramatic and lasting effect on the young person.
- Orient the student to the work site. Provide a formal orientation for the organization and thoroughly explain employee responsibilities. State the hours of work, lunch time, break times and discounts for meals. Describe the physical layout; how to get supplies; if and when they may use the telephone; to whom they should direct questions about work, and who to contact if they are going to be late or absent. Review safety instructions. Explain how the employee is to leave the work station at the end of the shift.
- Don't forget "administrative" issues. Review appropriate clothing for work, who pays for required uniforms, and discuss any other special equipment needed. Is smoking allowed? Where and when? When will the employee receive their first paycheck? How will checks be distributed?
- Explain and reinforce work habits. It is important to remember that most interns have little or no work experience. Initially this may be reflected in job performance. Do not expect too much too soon! Be patient. A mentor who offers constructive criticism can be a very positive influence in a student's life. Remember also that other employees may not be familiar with working with adolesents. The mentor may serve to buffer any relationship conflicts that develop at the work site.
A key responsibility of the mentor is to explain and reinforce the work habits and attitudes needed to succeed on the job. Mentors must explain to their students that in order to be successful in this work experience they need to be: - Punctual, i.e. report to work on time and every day that is scheduled;
- Well groomed, i.e. dress appropriately for the job and demonstrate good personal hygiene;
- Cooperative, i.e. get along with co-workers;
- Hard-working, dependable, professional, i.e. follow supervisor's orders, obey the rules of the organization, and refrain from inappropriate behavior;
- Willingness to learn, i.e. knowledge and skills learned from this work experience will help on future jobs and in school.
Other tips on working with interns
- Become a friend and confidant. The mentor can develop a close and special relationship with the student. To accomplish this, the mentor must be non-judgmental, able to handle confidentiality, and respectful of the differences inherent in the intern. The student will be encouraged if the mentor is a good listener and open-minded. This will make the mentor accessible and provide a foundation of trust to foster the development of the relationship. Take time to talk about workplace culture and the expectations and relationships surrounding these issues.
