The benefits for students participating in work experience are well known. They get an insight into the real world of work, a chance to explore an industry and role, gain confidence and make themselves more employable.
But as an employer, did you know that you can reap the rewards of a work experience programme, too?
Whether you’re a small-business owner or part of a multinational company, offering work experience to a student from your former college can benefit your business. Here are 5 examples of how:
- A helping hand from a motivated, committed individual
Students know the benefits of having a successful work experience placement on their CV. That’s why they are committed to taking full advantage of the opportunity to shine in a real-world situation, by making a useful contribution to your business.
As they road-test their potential future company, industry and role, they show an enthusiasm that every company likes to see in an employee. Who knows, you may even decide to hire one of them.
- Management experience for your staff
A work experience programme is a great way to give existing members of staff the opportunity to develop their management skills. By giving them an organisational or supervisory role in your new work experience programme, your employees will get invaluable hands-on training. This is particularly beneficial for smaller companies who may not have the resources for a formal training programme.
- Help shape the future workers and leaders of your industry
As well as providing a great recruitment channel, a work experience campaign provides a chance for you to inspire and influence our students and enhance your reputation as a leader in your industry or in our local community.
Your work experience employees may remember your generosity in a few years’ time when they’ve moved up the career ladder and may be happy to give you their assistance, recommend your company, or broker introductions.
- A unique perspective
Having a fresh perspective around the office may provide you with a unique insight into improving your processes, technology and innovation.
According to ComScore, a company that measures audiences, brands and consumer behaviour, younger people generally have a natural aptitude for technology, and today’s education is focussing more and more on training the next generation to lead the industrial revolution. Millennials are often more comfortable with new technological trends and find it easier to get to grips with new technology.
- A low-cost recruitment channel
Offering work experience is a relatively inexpensive way to scout-out fresh talent for your company. You don’t have to pay for a recruitment company, and hiring graduates can be more cost effective than recruiting experienced professionals.
It’s worth noting that going on to hire your work experience students may provide an opportunity to cultivate the type of employee that you want in your business, shaping a new professional to fit in with your work culture and skills gaps.
If you would like to find out more about offering a work experience placement for one if our current students, please click here.
