How to Offer Competitive Internships (Even if They’re Unpaid)

Let’s be honest, there are plenty of employers that are searching for interns. The hunt for good applicants is highly competitive. If you don’t have a big budget for paying interns, you might have to get creative. So how can your company distinguish itself to attract the best candidates?

Pay isn’t the only factor.

If your internship is unpaid, or has a lower pay rate, it doesn’t necessarily alienate you in the job market. Students take internships for valuable learning experience and to take their first step into the “real world.” Pay isn’t the only factor prospective candidates look at. That being said, it’s worthwhile to look at EARN Indiana to stretch your budget a little further. It’s a state work-study program that matches up to 50 percent of your intern’s hourly pay. Read more about EARN Indiana and the program requirements here.

Offer other benefits.

What if you just can’t afford a paid intern? Attract top talent by offering other benefits. My position as an unpaid intern for the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO) offered tickets to ISO shows, meeting conductors and attending events. You can provide networking opportunities and introduce your interns to colleagues to make helpful connections. If your organization is downtown, free parking is a valuable perk!

Be realistic and flexible.

When having an unpaid intern, remember to keep your expectations in check. Your intern and your organization mutually benefit each other. You might be providing valuable experience, but they’re also providing you with valuable labor. Understand that your intern may have to take on a separate part-time or full-time job while they are working for you, as they still have to pay for transportation and housing. It’s not always realistic to expect an unpaid intern to work a full-time schedule, or for them to complete tasks outside of office hours, especially during the school year. However, be sure to have respectable standards for their work, and expect professional behavior.

Unpaid internships are still desirable in the job market. Confidence is the key to filling your position with the best candidates. Know that your organization has something valuable to offer, and that even if your internship is unpaid, you have other benefits available. If you provide a great internship experience, word travels. Gaining a positive reputation among students and career development professionals can boost both the quality and quantity of your applicants.