For many employers, bringing on interns seems like a great idea, until someone asks the inevitable questions: What will an intern get out of this internship? Do we have enough for an intern to do? Who's going to manage our internship program? What kind of paperwork do we have to do?
Baton Rouge is one step ahead. They understand the reluctance some companies have about internship programs. But they also believe that robust internship programs will help Baton Rouge area students connect with employers, careers, stay on track to finish college, and stay in the Baton Rouge area when they've graduated. So they're making it as easy as possible for companies to start internship programs.
"Our goal is to convince more companies locally to start internships, hoping to produce a variety of effects: increased graduation rates, getting students more engaged in their subjects, helping with the brain drain issue in Baton Rouge. More internships means more connections between students and the community," says Julie Laperouse, Director of Talent Development at the
Baton Rouge Area Chamber.
With the assistance of a $10,000 Kresge challenge grant, BRAC launched the
Baton Rouge Area Internship Network (yes, BRAIN!) this spring. The program is already gaining momentum.
"Companies that are already investors in BRAC that have internships currently -- they're helping us spread the word about the program and brainstorming resources that would be most helpful for small businesses," Laperouse says. BRAC is paying special attention to very small companies -- even companies of one -- to help them understand the process of hiring an intern and offer resources that point those business owners in the right direction.
Baton Rouge is working with local creatives to develop fun, lighthearted approach. Employers can download printable Mad Libs-style posters that offers suggestions for interns who aren't sure what to do ("Keep Calm and Check the Supply Cabinet" is one). Or they can download a free guide filled with 225 things an intern can do for you, such as organizing the company library. (Baton Rouge's area code is 225.)
"We're trying to take away some of the stress of the internship coordinator," Laperouse says.
The region's attraction and retention efforts also call back to the Talent Dividend.
"We have 40,000 college students in Baton Rouge every year," Laperouse says. "We are trying to show them that there's a community here they can connect with while they're in school and after they graduate."
Baton Rouge has dubbed itself the Creative Capital of the South; leaders hope that giving the city an identity beyond "that other city in Louisiana" will help convince "flight risk" residents -- young, educated professionals that think they might have better prospects elsewhere -- to stick around and enjoy the nightlife, cultural attractions, dining, vibrant downtown and, of course, job opportunites that Baton Rouge can offer.
"There's a lot of creative activity in our region, including in sectors that are not traditionally considered creative, like manufacturing," Laperouse says.
"What we want to say is We want you here," she adds. "Let us help you stay in our community."
Source: Julie Laperouse, Baton Rouge Area Chamber
Writer: Amy Elliott Bragg