Small Business Big World Episode 19: Internship programs for small businesses
This is Small Business Big World, our weekly podcast prepared by the team at Paper Trails. Owning and running a small business is hard. Each week we’ll dive into the challenges, headaches, trends, fun and excitement of running a small business. After all, small businesses are the heartbeat of America and our team is here to keep them beating.
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Internship programs for small businesses
Internship programs are more than just temporary job positions; they’re gateways to future careers and essential tools for business growth. In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the journey of the Nonantum Resort’s internship program, expertly led by Don Golini, the Director of Student Employment Programs. This article will explore the insights shared in this episode, offering practical advice for small business owners looking to develop their own internship programs.
At Paper Trails, we understand the fears and headaches that come with managing payroll, HR, and small business operations. We’re here to assist small businesses in overcoming these challenges. By the end of this article and episode, you’ll learn how to structure an effective internship program, attract diverse talent, and create a thriving work culture that benefits both interns and your business.
The importance of internship programs
Small businesses internship programs serve as vital stepping stones for young professionals and as significant growth opportunities for businesses. These programs provide students with real-world experience while allowing businesses to benefit from fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. A well-structured internship program can help small businesses cultivate future employees and leaders, ensuring long-term success.
Transforming the internship program at the Nonantum Resort
In our podcast episode, Don Golini shared how the Nonantum Resort reshaped its internship program from an informal arrangement into a structured, career-centric experience. The program’s multifaceted approach post-COVID included departmental rotations, skill-building workshops, volunteer opportunities, and personal portfolio development. This holistic design aimed to attract not only hospitality majors but also students keen on refining their business acumen through real-world hospitality operations.
This thoughtful approach provided interns with a taste of various business facets, emphasizing the interconnectedness of different departments. By offering a comprehensive experience, the resort ensured that interns left with valuable skills and a clearer understanding of their career paths.
Recruitment strategies and fair compensation
Recruiting diverse talent is crucial for the success of small businesses internship programs. Don Golini discussed the importance of casting a wide net to attract interns from different backgrounds and disciplines. Offering fair compensation and meaningful work is essential to make the internship experience beneficial for both the interns and the company.
Providing interns with real responsibilities and fair pay not only motivates them but also demonstrates the company’s commitment to their development. This approach helps build a positive reputation for the business, making it easier to attract top talent in the future.
Role of an internship manager
One key takeaway from our conversation with Don was the importance of having a dedicated internship manager. This role is vital in ensuring the organization, adaptability, and overall success of the program. An internship manager oversees the interns, coordinates their activities, and addresses any challenges that arise.
For instance, if a rainy summer limits typical outdoor activities, an internship manager can pivot and assign project-based tasks to keep interns engaged and productive. Having a point person dedicated to the internship program ensures that it runs smoothly and that interns have a rewarding experience.
Cross-functional collaboration
Cross-functional collaboration is a critical component of the Nonantum Resort’s internship program. Interns engage with various departments, learning the nuances of the hospitality industry and developing a comprehensive understanding of the business. This approach fosters a vibrant work culture where interns feel valued and integral to the company’s operations.
By promoting cross-functional collaboration, small businesses can create a dynamic and inclusive work environment. Interns gain diverse experiences, which enhances their learning and contributes to the overall success of the program.
Partnerships and additional value
Partnerships with organizations like Maine Career Catalyst brought additional value to the Nonantum Resort’s internship program. These partnerships provided interns with workshops and networking opportunities, supplementing their development and offering a broader perspective on career possibilities.
Such collaborations enrich the internship experience, making it more attractive to potential interns. Small businesses can benefit from forming similar partnerships to enhance their internship programs and provide interns with a well-rounded experience.
Impact on the Nonantum Resort
The impact of the internship program on the Nonantum Resort has been significant. Fresh perspectives and energy from interns have enriched the resort’s environment, driving innovation and process improvements. The program has also led to inspiring stories of interns who discovered their passion for hospitality and even pivoted their career paths as a result of their experiences at the resort.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a successful internship program is a win-win for both interns and the business. The insights shared by Don Golini in our podcast episode provide a ton of practical advice for small business owners looking to cultivate an intern culture. By reimagining internships, small businesses can foster growth, innovation, and a thriving work culture.
For small businesses contemplating their own internship programs, this episode is a must-listen, packed with actionable advice and inspiring tales of success. Embrace the wisdom shared by Don Golini and consider how you can integrate these strategies into your business model to foster growth, innovation, and a thriving work culture.
This podcast is a production of Paper Trails. We are a payroll and HR company based in Kennebunk, Maine, and we serve small and mid-sized businesses across New England and the country. If you found this podcast helpful, don’t forget to follow us at at Paper Trails Payroll across all social media platforms and check us out at papertrails.com for more information. As a reminder, the views, opinions and thoughts expressed by the hosts and guests alone. The material presented in this podcast is for general information purposes only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. By inviting this guest to our podcast, Paper Trails does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific individual, organization, product or service.