Summer is just around the corner, and for many small businesses, that means it’s time to welcome a new wave of interns. Internships are a great way to bring in fresh talent, support your team during the busy summer months, and even scout out future full-time employees. But if you’re bringing interns into your workplace, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure it’s a positive experience for everyone involved.
Start with a Solid Onboarding Plan
Even though interns are temporary, they should still be treated like part of the team from day one. A clear onboarding process helps them feel welcome and sets expectations early. Spend some time preparing a brief orientation to walk them through your company values, team structure, and tools they’ll need to do their job. Don’t forget to introduce them to key team members—it makes a big difference when interns feel like they belong.
Providing a simple schedule or checklist for their first week can help ease nerves and answer some of those “Where do I start?” questions. Remember, for many interns, this might be their first job in a professional setting. A little guidance goes a long way.
Make Sure You’re Staying Compliant
Internships can be a little tricky when it comes to labor laws, so it’s important to make sure you’re following the rules. If your interns are unpaid (which isn’t always recommended), there are specific criteria under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) that you’ll need to meet. These rules help determine whether an internship can be unpaid or if the intern must be treated—and compensated—as a regular employee.
Most small businesses opt for paid internships, not only to stay compliant but also to attract high-quality candidates. If your intern is paid, make sure you’re handling payroll correctly, tracking hours, and staying on top of any state-specific wage requirements. If you’re unsure, this is where partnering with a PEO like Helpside can really come in handy. We help take the guesswork out of compliance so you can focus on giving your interns a great experience.
Make Room for Meaningful Mentorship
A good internship goes beyond just completing tasks—it’s about learning and growth. Assigning a mentor or point person for each intern can make a huge difference in how meaningful the experience is. It doesn’t need to be overly formal, but having someone they can turn to with questions or guidance helps build confidence and connection.
Encourage regular check-ins between mentors and interns to talk about progress, give feedback, and offer career advice. These conversations can spark growth on both sides—and you might even learn a thing or two from your intern’s perspective.
Internships aren’t just beneficial for the intern—they can also bring fresh ideas and energy to your team. By onboarding well, staying compliant, and investing in mentorship, you’ll create an environment where interns can thrive and your team can benefit from their contributions.