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To Pay Or Not To Pay? Make a Decision
There are pros and cons to both paid and unpaid internships for a business owner. For example, while an unpaid intern is obviously great because he won't cost you anything, the Department of Labor has some pretty constraining laws in place regarding just how much-and what type of-work unpaid interns can do. A paid intern comes as an expense to your business, but she will be free to make more substantial contributions to it. Do some research, learn about the Department of Labor's regulations, and decide which route seems best for you.
Make the Hiring Process Professional
Even though an internship seems so much more casual than a regular paid position, it's a mistake to take a casual approach when hiring an intern. As a business owner, you should take all the same steps that you would with potential paid employees. Write an official job description; request resumes and cover letters from all prospective interns, conduct in-person interviews with the most promising candidates, and contact their references. Doing this not only familiarizes your interns with the "real world" process of getting a job; it also helps to ensure that you bring the best possible people into your business, even if only for a summer!
Be an Involved Boss
Interns are generally younger and less experienced than your regular employees. Part of the trade-off of having their help is a slight increase in your own involvement. For example, while you may have a very hands-off approach with your employees, you'll need to take more time to mentor your interns. They're at your business to learn, and you're one of the most ideal people to teach them. Also, give them substantial tasks to complete-duties that will help them to learn and grow-rather than just basic chores like stuffing envelopes. Finally, be prepared to establish and enforce rules in ways you may not have to with your usual employees, especially when it comes to a dress code and internet usage.
For questions about your business insurance, Contact Litaker Insurance today.