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Building a Successful Internship Programme in Africa

As the year advances, companies keen on nurturing fresh talent are getting ready for the internship season. In these changing times, with many workplaces now blending in-office and remote working due to the pandemic, it's vital to create a strong framework for interns to learn and grow.


5 Steps for Creating a Highly Successful Internship Programme:


Link Your Internship and Graduate Programmes


Top companies have found success in merging their internship and graduate programmes. These two stages are not separate but rather, parts of the same journey. Interns finish their stint, complete their studies, and then go through the hiring process for full-time roles. Keeping in touch with them during this period is crucial to help them transition smoothly into their future roles.


Think about what your interns want to achieve from their experience. Use this understanding to improve the way you design and communicate your internship programme.


Show Interns Their Future at Your Company


Help your interns connect with people they can relate to. As we welcome more diverse groups of interns, it's important to make everyone feel included and part of the team. When interns see others like them succeeding in the company, they feel more at home and excited about starting their careers with you.


Consider who you introduce to your interns. Make sure these people can help create an environment where everyone feels they belong.


Create Opportunities for Interns to Shine


Give your interns some choices in their day-to-day tasks and activities. This could include allowing them to vote on training topics or pick from different social events.


Encourage them to organise their own events or activities. This can be done independently or with help from current employees or network groups.


Simple social activities, such as shared meals or fun games, can help interns relax and perform better.


Give Your Interns Useful Skills


Hold regular meetings with your interns to keep them informed about their progress and areas they need to improve. This will help them build on their existing skills and understand what's expected in a professional setting.


Offer training on important workplace skills to help interns transition from school to work.


Support Your Managers to Support Your Interns


Your managers play a vital role in teaching and guiding your interns. Make sure they have the knowledge and resources they need to help your interns grow.


Encourage managers to take an interest in their interns, learning about their backgrounds, dreams, and goals. It's important to avoid making assumptions about people and instead, stay open-minded and welcoming.


Finally, make sure you show appreciation for your interns and their hard work. Recognition can motivate them to work even harder and achieve more.


By following these steps, you can create a successful internship programme that benefits your interns and helps you build a strong future team.

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