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Tips for recruiting interns

By Mike Frontiero posted 07-15-2018 09:41 PM

  
I've posted a position description for a public relations intern in my office but haven't received any interest. What are some best practices in recruiting people to apply? It's unpaid but offers college credit. I have shared it with local university public relations programs and in our weekly email updates.
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07-19-2018 03:55 PM

Jared and Casey, thanks for your comments and advice. I totally agree about the pay issue. We can't afford to pay this year but are hopeful to have funding available next year.

07-19-2018 03:11 PM

Mike, I’ve worked in post secondary education for 26 years, and I have hired interns myself. I recommend that you start paying your interns, regardless of the college credit. Here’s why. 
1. You’re in a tough job market. Employers need people, and it makes sense for students to spend their time where they receive the best ROI. 
2. You’re limiting your applicant pool to people who don’t need money. You’re reducing your appeal for a large number of self-starters who can successfully balance college and real work. 
3. As skill requirements for most jobs increase, more of our students are adults who need to support their families. An internship that met both academic and financial needs would be especially attractive. 
4. Unpaid internships are not the norm that they once were. Our online internship board doesn’t even accept unpaid internship job postings. It may just just be a workplace evolution. 

That being said, employers who accept interns do students and the workforce a great service, and they instill loyalty for their companies. Thank you for being willing to make it work!

07-17-2018 11:08 AM

Hi Mike,

When you say you have shared it with local university public relations programs, does that include any local PRSSA chapters? Have you shared it with your local PRSA chapter?

Best,

Jared