Internships - how and why they're good for business

Taking on an intern can be an invaluable resource for a company. Recent graduates are energised from completing their studies and can bring a fresh perspective to your organisation.

They can contribute to productivity and help free your staff from side projects. Students learn cutting edge strategies, techniques, and technology in their field and are able to bring new ideas, particularly in the area of social media. Our students are excited to develop their existing knowledge and contribute to your team; this can also help to foster leadership skills in current employees.

With an intern, you can test-drive talent before deciding to take on a member of staff. In a multiple-week internship, you can really get to know the graduate and discover their strengths and compatibility with your staff. Studies have shown that a team member taken on as an intern has longer retention with the company. The training they receive develops a bond with the company that they value.

A University of Brighton match-funded internship will save you money. The Santander and Green Growth Platform internships are matched 50% in cost by the university. The university will also help you with recruitment free-of-charge.

Taking on an intern can increase visibility to students, helping to build your brand locally, as well as developing a relationship with local talent and the University of Brighton. This, in turn, demonstrates your organisation’s willingness to give back to the community.

An intern can be the perfect step you need in the development of your organisation, and an accessible locally-experience resource.

The University of Brighton is being supported by Santander Universities to offer match-funding for small to medium-sized organisations (up to 250 employees) taking on a graduate. Match-funding up to a maximum of £1,260 will be available for an internship of up to 8 weeks FTE (minimum 4 weeks), with a view to recruiting for a permanent or longer fixed-term position. Roles may be offered on a full or part-time basis. The programme is aimed mainly (but not necessarily) at 2020 finalists looking for graduate-level employment. Opportunities will also be promoted to postgrad finalists. The university will work in partnership with you to develop your roles and offer support with the recruitment process.

Why: to support business growth and graduate employment.

What: part funding for graduate internship opportunities that could potentially become permanent or longer fixed term jobs.

When: you can recruit immediately.

Where: nationally, but our students often focus on the South East.

If you would like to receive further information regarding the internship schemes offered by University of Brighton, please email Jayson at j.short2@brighton.ac.uk

If you want to contribute to the Chamber blog, contact us on hannah@brightonchamber.co.uk