Truthful Tuesday - Intern

A while back I posted about getting a (paid) intern to assist a few hours a week with social media & marketing. I had quite a few applicants, some of whom were from overseas.

After going through resumes & interviews via email, two suitable applicants were found, however in the end I could only have one intern. 

The successful (future) intern was contacted & a time was made to have a chat over strategy. Sadly, that intern never turned up, nor responded to phone calls, txt messages nor emails. 

I thought it was a bit rude the intern did not send a message to say they were not coming. I didn't have a problem with the intern changing their mind, but I had issues with the lack of communication.

Thankfully, I had a plan B, who I contacted & was also keen to start, but in a few weeks as they were busy with other freelance work at the time. But, yet again, after contacting the intern at the agreed time there was no further communication.

I found this interesting as I told the intern to let me know if they changed their mind as it would not be a problem and highlighted I would not be upset, but wanted to be kept in the loop so I could make alternative plans.

I guess the lesson here is that not everyone is as honest as me. I know some people struggle with conflict & prefer to avoid it, but I thought communication via email was a non threatening way for people who have difficulty being truthful.

Finally, I won't be using interns again. I know interns work for other friends of mine who have businesses, but I they are not for me at this stage.

What are your thoughts on this matter? What would you have done.

Author: Jason Cormick