Generation internships: What young talents expect from their internship

Imagine entering a company for the first time where you see your future. You dive into the world of work, learn from experienced professionals and get involved right from the start. Sounds exciting? That is exactly what an internship offers you!

Forget boring piles of files and making coffee: Today, internships are more than just compulsory university exercises. They are your chance to demonstrate your skills, make valuable contacts and actively shape the working world of tomorrow.

But what exactly are young talents looking for in an internship? What are their expectations and how can companies meet them? In this blog article, we look at the various aspects of this question and show you how you can attract young people to internships in your company.

1. EXPERIENCE AND LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

At the heart of expectations is the desire for an enriching experience that promotes both personal and professional growth.

1.1 Practical experience

Young talents are looking for internships that not only offer them insights into the theoretical aspects of their field of study, but above all provide them with practical experience in real work environments. They want to learn skills that go beyond the classroom and are directly applicable to their future career.

This includes the opportunity to work on projects with real impact, take responsibility, and learn through practical action. The direct application of what has been learned and the opportunity to make a visible contribution to the company are paramount.

1.2 Mentoring and feedback

Another important aspect is the need for guidance and support from experienced employees. Young talents expect a structured mentoring program that helps them develop their skills and plan their career.

Regular, constructive feedback on their work and progress is just as crucial. It enables them to reflect on their performance and improve continuously.

2. CORPORATE CULTURE AND VALUES

The culture and values of a company play a decisive role in choosing an internship.

2.1 Diversity and Inclusion

An inclusive work environment that values and promotes diversity in all forms is of great importance for young talent. They are looking for companies that live diversity not only on paper but in their daily practice.

This includes promoting equal opportunities, supporting minorities and creating a working environment in which all employees feel valued and respected.

2.2 Sustainability and Social Responsibility

The Internship Generation attaches great importance to the social and environmental responsibility of the companies with which they want to complete their internships. Sustainable business, ethical business practices and a commitment to social issues are important to them.

You want to be part of a company that makes a positive contribution to society and is actively committed to protecting the environment.

3. CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AND PROSPECTS

The prospect of a possible transfer to permanent employment after the internship is a decisive factor.

3.1 Development opportunities

Young talents are looking for internships that offer clear prospects for their professional future. They expect the internship to be not just a temporary commitment, but the first step on a career ladder that offers career opportunities and long-term development prospects.

3.2 Network construction

The ability to build a professional network is another important aspect. Internships provide a unique opportunity to make contacts that can be invaluable for your future career. Young talent expects to have access to industry events, workshops, and other networking opportunities during their internship.

4. WORK-LIFE BALANCE AND FLEXIBILITY

The balance between work and private life as well as flexible working models are of great importance for the intern generation.

4.1 Flexible working hours and home office

Flexible working hours and the option to work from home at least partially are attractive for many young talents. They are looking for internships that offer a certain degree of flexibility in order to be able to better reconcile work and study or personal obligations.

4.2 Health and wellbeing

A healthy working environment that promotes the physical and mental health of interns is also an important aspect. Offers such as sports programs, nutritional advice or stress prevention measures can help to increase well-being and create a positive internship experience.

The expectations of young talents for their internships are varied and reflect the desire for a meaningful, enriching experience that helps them to develop both personally and professionally. Companies that recognize and respond to these expectations can not only benefit from the fresh perspectives and commitment of the intern generation, but also attract talented employees over the long term.

Do you not only want to meet the expectations of the intern generation, but also to exceed them? HRCC is your partner when it comes to creating learning environments that promote and inspire young talent. With our passion for focus, diversity, innovation and sustainability, we help you develop a work environment that ensures the long-term development of your employees and your company. Contact us to create paths together that move not only interns but also your entire team forward.

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