How to get the most out of your student

The summer holidays are approaching fast. Many organizations welcome students to manage the backlog in administration or to support ongoing projects.

Students can bring new life and energy into ongoing projects and the workplace, and can provide relief for permanent staff, but it also requires some preparation. Walters People shares 5 tips to get the best out of your student during the summer.

1. Prepare the first day

Just because students are only employed by an organization for a brief period, it is important not to waste any time, so they can fully commit to the organization from day one. When their first day is well prepared, students can kick off immediately.

Make sure they can log on to a company computer right away, have access to everything they need, and their tasks are clear from the start. In addition, the expectations and guidelines for working from home need to be well defined. After all, it is not the intention that the student does not apply the company rules at home. Communication must run smoothly, both at work and at home.

2. Introduce them to the team

Students will have many questions during the first days. Make sure that someone from the permanent staff is appointed to keep an eye on things and to answer all questions they may have. Introduce the student to everyone on their first day. Doing so, students get the feeling of belonging to the team. Invite them to lunch during the first day. Such a simple gesture can make all the difference.

3. Keep an eye on their progress

Although it may seem a little odd to schedule follow-up interviews with an employee who will not be staying with the organization for long, it is still wise to do so. That way, you ensure that students know exactly what is expected of them and that they remain productive and motivated.

4. Motivate them

Rewarding and motivating students is also key. You undoubtedly do everything to keep your permanent employees as satisfied as possible. Make sure you do the same with students. Their tasks may not always be the most pleasant, but it helps if a goal is set. Also, putting their tasks in a broader perspective allows students to see that their work has an impact, and it will contribute to their job satisfaction.

5. Make a good impression

Finally, it is essential to make a good impression. 9 out of 10 job applicants share an unpleasant experience at a company with their acquaintances. It is in your best interest to pay sufficient attention to temporary staff, so that your student leaves the organization with a positive feeling.