Creating a Mutually Beneficial Virtual Internship Program

So, you want to develop a virtual internship program…But are you ready?

To have a successful program, you need to have a few things in place

A project management tool is essential. You may be able to use a free application.

If you plan to expand your program over time, you might want to consider activeCollab

Invest in a remote desktop software, such as CrossLoop

How do you plan to communicate?

Skype for Business is probably your best option

Plan on having a regular weekly meeting, as well

With a couple interns, use Skype-to-Skype free calling

As your program grows, you might want to consider Skype group chats

Give an overview of important company news to help the interns feel involved

Hold brainstorming sessions, when needed

Allow each intern to give an update of projects for the week to help build a cohesive team

Give kudos on specific accomplishments whenever possible!

Allow time at the end for questions about the week’s assignments

Virtual internships take both the right candidate and the right supervisor

During interviews, be sure to ask candidates the right questionsGive me an example of a time when you worked on a project successfully with little supervisionTell me about a time when you made a mistake and describe how you solved the situation

Give me an example of a time when you worked on a project successfully with little supervision

Tell me about a time when you made a mistake and describe how you solved the situation

Candidates should have prior internship and/or office experienceA virtual internship should not be the first internship for a candidate!

Ask candidates’ references if they would recommend them for a virtual internship and why

Supervisors must have excellent project management skills and preferably prior experience supervising interns Just like with candidates, virtual internships are not a good new manager starting point!

Plan in advanceGive your intern(s) real assignments, just as though they were in the office!Create a monthly plan for major projects in before they startProvide detailed assignments on a weekly or bi-weekly basis

Encourage and be available for questions

Create an intern blog to help journal the experience for school and their résumé(s)

Create a Facebook group or Ningsite to encourage communication

Now that you’ve developed your program, how do you plan to find your virtual interns?

Questions?Heather R. HuhmanFounder & PresidentCome RecommendedHeather@ComeRecommended.com@HeatherHuhman