Graduate internships and
placements offer different opportunities depending on the company and the
position you cover whilst working with the organisation.
Typically, internships last
for a few months and the employer will give the intern either one specific
piece of work or they will provide a list of different duties.
Internships provide the
perfect opportunity for graduates to establish whether or not that industry is
right for them.
Furthermore, an internship
allows graduates to impress the employer, build confidence and make different
contacts which can lead to permanent employment.
What do graduates need to
know about internships?
Finding an internship
Before graduates start
applying for internships, they need to make sure they apply for positions and
companies they hope to find full time employment with, otherwise it is a waste
of time and effort.
Once graduates have
determined what it is they are looking for and want from their internship, they
will have to start searching for vacant places.
Applying for the internship
Once graduates have found
vacant internships that are suitable for their specific needs and requirements,
it is important that graduates tailor their application for that role and
company in order to be successful against other applicants.
Assessments and interviews
The company may invite
graduates in for an interview to discuss their future plans in employment and
discuss the internship in question.
Other companies may have an
assessment day where graduates will have to prove they have the skills and
abilities to succeed in the placement.
Starting the internship
Successful graduates will
have to agree a contract with their employer which will outline the roles and
expectations from the graduate.
This will include the working
hours, how work will be measured, what notice is necessary if the graduate
wishes to leave the placement early and if any payment will be offered.
Pay for internships
Some internships will be
paid, others will not. Whether the graduate is paid depends on the role of the
intern for the organisation. Interns that perform as a worker have to be paid
the National Minimum Wage by law.
Are you considering applying
for any graduate internships? Had you previously considered any of the above points?