A GUIDE TO BUILDING AN AGENCY INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
FROM THE BIG I INVEST PROGRAM
Staffing continues to be a major challenge for independent agencies . Principals regularly point to the difficulty in finding qualified , motivated employees – and to their struggle in drawing those talents to an industry not necessarily known as sexy or exciting .
When they do find the “ right ” person , agents spend significant time and money training those new employees , only to have to repeat the process when things do not work out . You can break this disappointing cycle through the strategic use of interns . A quality internship program will enable your agency to attract bright , ambitious young people – and identify cheaply and easily those you want to keep for the long term .
Interns tend to stay with the employer with which they intern . If a student is a quality intern , the decision to hire is easy . An internship usually is a student ’ s first look at the workplace . It can be a springboard to meaningful employment in a field of interest for the student . Agencies and companies alike can sponsor a paid internship . While nonpaid internships are possible , strict guidelines apply and agencies should consult legal counsel for these requirements . Remuneration can be worked out with the school and may depend on factors such as age and capabilities . Sponsoring an intern is a commitment and requires planning and follow-through . A wellplanned internship can reward your business .
The Big I Invest program offers a guide that will walk you through the important elements of internships – including issues of compensation , credit , and legal implications – and provide you with a framework for developing your own intern program .
BENEFITS OF INTERNSHIPS
Participation in internships offers a number of advantages for students , employers and the educational institution :
For Employers
• Aid in recruiting and selecting future full-time employees ;
• Reduce the cost of recruiting and selecting full-
22 KANSAS INSURANCE AGENT & BROKER