Sequence Says

6 Best Practices for Working With Interns

Written by TeamSEQ | Oct 15, 2024 8:03:53 PM

Back in June, Sequence Events proudly earned the title of a certified Great Place to Work once again, with 93% of our team members saying they felt welcomed from day one. This recognition isn’t just a badge of honor—it’s proof that we’ve built something pretty special here at SEQ, where creativity, collaboration, and adaptability are part of our daily routine.

Our commitment to creating a positive workplace extends to our interns, too. In the fast-paced world of event production, our interns aren’t just here for the ride—they’re bringing fresh ideas, challenging our thinking, and helping us tackle the inevitable curveballs. In short, they keep us on our toes, and we love them for it!

A lot of our interns choose to return for multiple seasons, and it’s not uncommon for us to bring them on as full-time employees. Whether they’re working in marketing, creative, production, or business development, our interns see their time with us as more than just a pit stop—it’s a launchpad. 

So, how do we make that magic happen? Let’s break it down.

  1. Setting clear expectations from the start

It all starts with setting the right expectations during onboarding. We make sure our interns know who we are, what we do, and how they fit into the big picture. We’re clear about goals, responsibilities, and what success looks like—so they can hit the ground running and start making an impact from day one.

In the event industry, timelines are tight and stakes are high, so having defined roles helps interns quickly adapt to the fast pace while understanding their part in the larger process. At SEQ, we give our interns responsibilities that match their skills, but also challenge them to grow. We always discuss their goals upfront, which sets the tone for a productive internship on both sides.

  1. Offering real-world experience, not busy work

No one signs up for an internship hoping to fetch coffee or make copies all day. At SEQ, our interns are actively involved in the success of our events. They attend client meetings, go on site visits, and assist with event setup, experiencing the full event lifecycle firsthand.

Working in the fast-paced environment of event production teaches our interns critical skills like time management, troubleshooting under pressure, and adapting to last-minute changes. Plus, when they see their work come to life on event day, it makes them feel connected to the team in a big way.

  1. Encouraging open communication and feedback

Creating an open line of communication is key to supporting interns. At SEQ, for example, we hold regular check-ins to provide feedback and encourage interns to ask questions, offer ideas, and share any concerns. This not only helps them grow, but also allows us to tailor the experience to their individual strengths and interests.

And let’s be real, open communication is a two-way street. We also want to hear from our interns about their questions or concerns. An added bonus? They often have fresh insights that resonate with their generation—and that could spark the next big idea for our events.

  1. Celebrating their contributions

Acknowledgment goes a long way in building confidence. Whether it’s giving an intern a shoutout during a team meeting or sending a personal note of thanks, we make it a point to recognize the work our interns do. When they see their efforts being appreciated, it boosts their morale and motivates them to keep contributing at a high level.

  1. Being a mentor, and creating a pathway to future opportunities

Mentorship is key. It’s about more than just work—it’s about giving interns someone they can turn to for guidance, both in their day-to-day tasks and their broader career goals. This one-on-one support helps them navigate challenges with confidence and opens up a direct line to leadership.

We also want our interns to know that there’s a future for them here if they’re interested. We regularly create pathways for high-performing interns to return for future seasons or even transition into freelance or full-time roles. It’s about showing them that we’re invested in their growth—not just during the internship, but beyond.

  1. Providing learning opportunities
    We believe internships should be more than a crash course in the day-to-day—it’s about learning and growth too. Whether it’s attending industry conferences, shadowing different departments, or jumping into workshops, we offer plenty of opportunities for our interns to level up their skills.

Providing these learning opportunities shows that we care about their professional growth and their future careers. It’s an investment in them—and, frankly, in the future of the event industry. Internships should be stepping stones toward bigger things, whether with us or elsewhere.

At the end of the day, our approach to working with interns isn’t just about giving them a positive experience—it’s about building the next generation of talent. By investing in their growth and treating them like the rock stars they are, we’re setting the stage for the future leaders of the industry. And honestly? That’s a win-win for everyone.

Want to learn more about working with SEQ? Let’s connect