General Intern Job Description

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines an intern as "an advanced student or graduate usually in a professional field (as medicine or teaching) gaining supervised practical experience (as in a hospital or classroom)." A general intern is typically found within an office setting, performing administrative tasks such as typing, filing and answering telephones. While many interns are in college, many organizations employ high school students in this role.

Job Responsibilities

A general intern is brought on board at a company to perform operational and administrative functions. This serves a dual purpose, giving the intern valuable experience, while lightening the workload of professionals by relieving them of transactional duties. Interns perform basic office tasks as assigned, such as filing, photocopying and faxing. Receptionist work, including answering phones and greeting visitors, may also be responsibilities of this role. A general intern who is with an employer for a significant amount of time or shows a strong degree of interest may be given an increasing amount of responsibility, sometimes autonomously managing minor administrative projects.

Job Opportunities

While most companies will take on an intern, certain organizations sponsor formal internship programs. Organizations that offer formal programs typically post the requirements and application process on their website. Additionally, information regarding internships can also be found through the career or student services office of educational institutions. Firms that use interns, but do not administer a formal program, often advertise their openings online and in traditional classifieds as needed.

Qualitative Requirements

A successful general intern has a desire to gain professional experience and is incredibly eager to learn. Strong listening skills are also required to perform this role. Oral and written communication skills, the ability to follow directions, as well as not being afraid to ask questions will ensure a productive internship. Candidates must also be willing to do whatever job is given to him. An intern should live by the mantra, "No job is too big. No job is too small."

Educational Requirements

To be considered for inclusion in a general internship, a candidate must currently be enrolled as a student in a public or accredited private academic institution. Additionally, many organizations as well as schools require that students maintain a minimum grade point average to participate in an internship, typically 2.0.

Average Compensation

Though many formal internship programs provide participating students with college credit, but no financial compensation, SimplyHired.com reports that in 2009, the average annualized salary of an intern in the United States of America was $38,000.

References

• Merriam Webster Dictionary
• Internships at SimplyHired.com
• Internship Programs