5 Key Steps: How to Hire Interns in Singapore

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As a leader in your company, you understand the importance of innovation, flexibility, and passion. And what better way to infuse these qualities into your team than by hiring an intern? With their energy, adaptability, and cost-effective solutions, interns are a sought-after resource for any organization.

But with so many options out there, how can you ensure that you choose the right intern for your company in Singapore? Here's what you need to know before making a decision.

When to Hire Interns in Singapore

when to hire interns in singapore

When it comes to fishing for capable interns, timing is everything. Depending on where they are in life, whether they're on a university break or recently freed from National Service obligations, there are specific periods that are more conducive to finding the right candidates. To help you navigate this process, we've compiled a concise list of internship-hunting seasons in Singapore:

Post-NS / post-JC – February to August

Polytechnic – March to April, September to October

Local university / MBA – June to August

Regional university – November to January

Types of Internships

Knowing when to hire interns is just one piece of the puzzle. It's also important to understand the different types of internships available in Singapore: summer internships, six-month internships, and part-time internships.

Summer internships typically align with ongoing school semesters and are perfect for current university students. They usually last for 8 to 12 weeks and begin in May or June during the summer holidays.

If you're looking for a longer-term intern, a six-month internship may be a better fit. This type of internship provides ample time to expose your intern to different projects and responsibilities and can be undertaken by undergraduates, students, or anyone else looking for a longer stint.

Finally, for those seeking a school-work-life balance, part-time internships offer a flexible alternative to traditional, full-time internship positions.

How and Where to Hire Interns in Singapore

how to hire interns in singapore

There isn't just one solution that fits all because different groups of young people have different needs and expectations. However, there are various outlets you can consider, including job platforms like Talentport, Glints, LinkedIn, and Tech in Asia. These portals benefit both employers and job seekers.

You can also consider university and polytechnic career portals, which offer fresh and willing talent. Alternatively, you could try guerrilla hiring tactics such as reaching out to friends who teach at universities or launching unique campaigns to attract interns. The key is to be proactive and try various methods until you find what works best for your needs.

Screening Candidates & Handling Expectations

how to hire interns in singapore

The hiring process for interns may seem similar to that of any other employee: receiving applications, narrowing down candidates, scheduling interviews, and conducting screenings. However, it's important to recognize the different needs and expectations of various age groups.

Post-NS and JC youths may view the position as a temporary job to get them through the waiting period before university. On the other hand, university graduates are looking for relevant, real-life experiences that relate to their degree. Asking impactful questions can help determine if a candidate's goals and motivations align with your company's culture.

It's also crucial to be transparent about your company's work culture and what they can learn during their internship. Despite the low salary range, most interns are eager to gain experience and learn. By reading body language and observing a candidate's disposition, you can determine their level of interest in contributing to your firm. Don't underestimate the potential of interns, as they may be diamonds in the rough.

Average Interns Salary in Singapore

Attracting young talent to join your organization as interns is a smart move that can reap great rewards. However, figuring out a fair salary range for interns in Singapore can be a challenge. On average, intern salaries range from S$800 to S$2,000, with university students earning around S$1240 per month. While experience is invaluable, offering unpaid internships is not advisable. Young talent needs to feel valued and motivated, and a monetary incentive can go a long way in achieving this.

It is important to establish a consistent pay structure for interns and stick to it. By being upfront and sincere about the skills and knowledge interns will gain during their time with your organization, you can attract the right candidates who will happily accept the offered salary.

Conclusion

Hiring an intern in Singapore can be a lengthy process, but it is well worth the effort. Young, energetic, and adaptable individuals can bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table, creating a thriving company environment.

With the comprehensive guide provided, you can confidently navigate the process and find the perfect interns for your organization. Get started today by visiting Talentport!

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