Interns Are People Too!!!

This post was a comment to a blog I recently read. It really struck a cord with me, because it totally gives no credit to those who are working "for free".

First of all, let me just say that interns and volunteers are the bread and butter of many organizations and non profits because of the struggle for added help. I am very saddened to see how many negative blogs, comments, and articles that devalue future professionals. I feel that as a community of communicators it is more important than ever to use our coveted communication skills and communicate what it is we need from interns and expect of them.

Free labor is one thing, but when you have an intern that is very driven, it is more than your facebook, twitter, and social media at stake. To make a statement such as “If an intern works for free…you get what you pay for”, only goes to show how much of a gap there is between interns and company owners.

Instead of looking at interns in terms of “social media savvy”, look at them in terms of future business leaders. I know it can be hard for some of those who are well established in the industry to be mentors, because of selfish pride, fear of gen-y, or just personal bias, but as someone in that role you must be a mentor to interns and employees! Step away from the mentality that you are owed something from interns and focus more on what you can provide for them.

As an intern myself, I am very lucky to work for a company and a business women that wants to nurture me and my abilities and also help me to improve in areas I lack. I’m learning from her and she’s learning from me. That’s how it should be and when I am a professional in this industry, I will do the same.

I recommend that everyone keep in mind the first step to a strategic PR plan… RESEARCH. Many blogs are missing this and it makes me lose faith in those who are the current leaders of our industry. Does anyone even know what is being taught in communication classes now a days when it comes down to social media and using it?

I encourage everyone to continue to have faith in the future business owners of the country, and to never look at your interns in the mind set of “If an intern works for free…you get what you pay for.” But instead look to them in this mind set, ”If an intern works for free… he or she must really care about their future and the future of my business.

(While writing this, it has been brought to my attention that I should start a blog. Please look for it very soon)

And so starts the blog you're reading now! =]