555: How to Work With Interns with Katie Jasiewicz

Eat Blog Talk

In episode 555, Megan chats to Katie Jasiewicz about the ins and outs of hiring interns to help us with our blogs, covering everything from job descriptions, the hiring process and quality of work delivered.

Katie Jasiewicz (jazz uh wits) is a seasoned blogger with almost 15 years of experience. She's known for her popular websites; Katie’s Cucina (a recipe blog) and Sew Woodsy (a craft/DIY blog). In 2014, she transitioned from a corporate marketing job, and turned her passion for food and crafting into a full-time career. She recently launched Easy Seafood Recipes, a niche seafood recipe website. Katie continues to share her expertise and insights from her journey spanning over a decade in the blogging world.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to hire an intern either for college credits (i.e. free) or a salary, what tasks to give them, how to train them and whether it’s a viable way to outsource blogging tasks.

Key points discussed:

- Motivated interns can help lessen your workload: Use a diligent hiring process to find motivated interns that can be an asset to your business.

- Start with one intern per semester: Taking on multiple interns initially can be overwhelming, it's best to start small and gain experience.

- Research college timelines: Understanding semester schedules at target schools helps post internships at optimal times for recruitment and onboarding.

- Students need own equipment for virtual internships: If you’re offering a virtual internship, think through the requirements for students like access to internet and a computer.

- Use a detailed contract: Outlining expectations, responsibilities, confidentiality and more through a contract establishes structure and accountability.

- Assign tasks on project boards: Use organizational tools like Trello to help assign and track tasks to keep internships on schedule.Provide training and support: Take time to onboard interns through tutorials and regular check-ins. It will help them succeed in their roles.

- Leverage an intern's strengths: Tailoring tasks to skills and interests fosters engagement and quality work from motivated interns.

- Communicate schedules and allow for flexibility: Allow for life events on both sides to maintain understanding during a long-term collaborative relationship.

Connect with Katie Jasiewicz

Website | Instagram