It is far too often that vital digital marketing efforts such as social media, data hygiene, video post-production, and many others are pushed to the back burner when businesses get busy. These neglected tasks are often saved for “when they have the time”, but let’s face it — that time never comes.
In today’s digital age, these areas are no longer considered as secondary when it comes to having a well defined overall digital marketing strategy. A suggested way to get to these forgotten items done is to consider bringing in an intern (or two) as a part of your marketing team.
Interns can bring a fresh perspective to your organization and grant existing staff members extra time to devote to more pressing tasks. Whether you bring them on for some pay, or for college credit, they offer a wide array of opportunities to assist your team with items that may not be accomplished otherwise.
So, now that “school’s out” and many college students are returning home for summer break, there is no better time than right now to start your search!
Tips for Finding Your Newest Team Members
- Know where to look. Check with local colleges or trade schools to discover the procedures for recruitment and employment.
- Be selective. They should have at least a starter resume to provide and a few references. You may get a slightly better pool of candidates with a paid internship, but again that is something to be considered.
- Look for experience. You can often find a student that has direct experience in the area you are looking to fill, as many college offer courses in social media marketing, video production, and editing.
- Treat them as “real” employees. They should be brought on with the full on-boarding you would give a new hire. Make sure they have real tasks to do and the elements needed to get those tasks done; they are not there to make coffee and run to the cleaners.
- Give them goals to achieve. Select a mentor for them to work under and include them in organization events. Remember, they are now a part of the organization so be sure to treat them that way!
- Give them something to leave with. Whether it be a certification or a portfolio, give your interns something that makes them more marketable for their next job or internship – or who knows – maybe even back to your organization after graduation!
Investing in college students to help grow your digital marketing strategy is a great way to get support for your team at a low cost. In addition, it is an opportunity to test your processes, teach your skills, and watch up-and-coming digital marketers develop from the ground up.
About the Author
As a Digital Strategist and Head of Training, Kristen enjoys adapting to the role of whatever the day calls for. In her personal time, she can be found at the gym working out or spending quality time with her daughter and friends at the beach or on the dance floor.