Onboarding Interns Checklist

Onboarding Interns Checklist

6 minutes
January 30, 2025
hirex
Written by Hirex

Intern onboarding is important for companies even though these interns may only be with that organization for a while.

Interns need a certain formal onboarding process to adapt to their new roles and complete their internships efficiently. Therefore, the onboarding interns checklist is useful for companies that want to guide interns in the right direction.

However, what is an onboarding interns checklist, and how does this help companies ask how to onboard interns? 🤔

This onboarding interns checklist will include the steps of onboarding interns and the comprehensive information about these.

Checklist

Communicate with interns before their first day to confirm important information.

Make certain that hiring managers are ready for their interns.

Give interns the required hardware and software.

Request that the IT staff create intern software and email accounts.

Assist interns in completing HR paperwork.

Support interns in setting up their work stations.

Provide welcome packages and company swag.

Organize role-specific training sessions.

​​Designate a mentor or work buddy.

Display the organizational chart, departments, and functions.

Inform the company about the hiring of interns.

Plan activities and meetings for the group.

Onboarding New Interns

Onboarding is an important topic for the organizations, but when it comes to onboarding interns, some details must be addressed.

Here is a step-by-step intern onboarding process for companies asking how to onboard interns:

1. Communicate With Interns Before Their First Day to Confirm Important Information

In the first step of the intern onboarding checklist, companies should contact their interns prior to their first day to confirm significant information. This is important to guarantee that they are aware of their precise start date and expected arrival time. Thanks to this, they can plan and prevent uncertainty.

In addition, organizations should let their interns know whether they need to bring any necessary documentation, such as an ID. Giving them this information in advance makes companies certain that these interns are ready.

Lastly, provide their first day's plans, like any meetings with managers, and or training sessions. In this manner, interns can feel prepared and self-assured on their first day.


2. Make Certain That Hiring Managers Are Ready for Their Interns

Organizations should arrange the necessary information so that they are prepared to greet their interns. To ensure a comfortable workspace from the first day, they must know where these individuals will sit.

Hiring managers also ought to be aware of the projects that the interns will be working on. Interns can contribute effectively if they are given clear instructions on this.

Managers should also create a list of the interns' initial tasks and be aware of their regular job responsibilities. These will facilitate a seamless start and aid them in acclimating to their roles as soon as possible.


3. Give Interns the Required Hardware and Software

It is crucial to guarantee that interns have the necessary hardware and software to complete their tasks efficiently. To save time, have their devices set up ahead of time.

If feasible, it is also a good idea to let them select their favorite computer accessories, like allowing them to choose between a trackpad and a mouse. This provides a personal touch and increases their comfort.


4. Request That the IT Staff Create Intern Software and Email Accounts

Organizations should coordinate with the IT team to ensure their interns have access to all required accounts prior to their first day. They ought to have a company email address to interact professionally with clients and colleagues.

Group messaging apps also should be available so that team members may collaborate and communicate quickly. Companies should create accounts for project management software as well so interns may keep organized and take part in ongoing work.


5. Assist Interns in Completing HR Paperwork

It is important to note that this may be the interns' first professional job. That is why organizations should assist them with their HR paperwork. Companies also should be patient and offer instructions as interns might not fully comprehend tax documents or employment terms.

To make the process simpler and less stressful, it is essential to make sure an HR staff member is on hand to respond to any queries interns may have.


6. Support Interns in Setting Up Their Work Stations

The intern onboarding plan involves helping interns configure their workstations, particularly if they are unfamiliar with the company's software or equipment.

To make the procedure easier, organizations should give their interns clear, detailed directions. They should also provide instructions or manuals for any complicated equipment they will need to utilize.

It is also valuable to ask the IT personnel to help make sure that any required systems, such as antivirus software, are installed correctly as well. This strategy makes sure interns are comfortable with their setup so they can concentrate on learning and doing their jobs well.


7. Provide Welcome Packages and Company Swag

Giving interns welcome packages and company swag is an excellent way to make these individuals feel appreciated and accepted. This little gesture conveys the excitement of the company about interns joining the team.

Consider products that interns can use regularly, such as a mug or water bottle with the company's logo. Companies can also prefer technological accessories like headsets as a useful and popular option. Gift certificates to nearby cafés or restaurants can also be a considerate way to encourage them to explore the region.


8. Organize Role-Specific Training Sessions

Arrange training specific to the tasks and tools that interns will be using. This will help interns comprehend their roles and guarantee that they can contribute significantly to their team from the outset. It will also be very useful in increasing the interns' employee engagement.


9. Designate a Mentor or Work Buddy

If companies have no time to organize a training session, they can assign an employee to the interns as a work buddy or mentor who can offer advice on company policies, work practices, and daily chores. This guarantees interns have a resource for inquiries and assistance in facilitating and improving their onboarding process.


10. Display the Organizational Chart, Departments, and Functions

Interns might not have the opportunity to communicate with every team member in the organization. For this reason, companies should provide an overview of the operations and structures of teams. Besides, presenting an organizational chart has an important role in demonstrating the connections between teams.


11. Inform the Company About the Hiring of Interns

Organizations should send a mass email or a message on the company's chat tool to inform the entire organization that these interns have been hired.

It is also critical to encourage staff members to greet the new interns by introducing themselves on their first day and continuing to do so for the duration of their first week. This gives interns a sense of belonging and inclusion right away.


12. Plan Activities and Meetings for the Group

It is beneficial to plan team-building exercises and group meetings to make interns feel like they belong to the company culture, just like long-term employees. These gatherings give interns the chance to interact with coworkers and form relationships outside of their daily responsibilities.


Conclusion

Although employee onboarding is a topic that is highly valued by many companies, you have discovered how important the details are for intern onboarding. Following the steps in this content will be a great guide to learning about intern onboarding ideas.

As an employer, HR professional, or simply someone looking to develop themselves, there are numerous topics to explore during your career. Visit Hirex to learn more about the HR subjects you're interested in!

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Selen ÇakıroğluSenior Human Resources Specialist, Invent.ai
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