Motivation

• Set Clear Expectations and Goals: Clearly communicate the intern's role, responsibilities, and the specific goals they are expected to achieve. Ensure these goals are realistic and achievable, given their experience level.
• Provide Regular Feedback and Recognition: Provide constructive feedback on their performance regularly, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement. Recognize their accomplishments and efforts, even small ones, to boost their confidence and motivation.
• Create a Supportive and Inclusive Environment: Foster a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where the intern feels comfortable asking questions, seeking help, and sharing their ideas.
• Offer Opportunities for Growth and Development: Provide opportunities for the intern to learn new skills, attend training sessions, or work on challenging projects that stretch their abilities.
• Show Interest in their Career Goals: Take the time to understand the intern’s career aspirations and help them see how their internship experience contributes to their long-term goals.

Accountability

• Establish Clear Deadlines and Milestones: Set clear deadlines for tasks and projects and break down larger projects into smaller, more manageable milestones. Regularly check in with the intern to track their progress.
• Provide the Necessary Resources and Support: Ensure the intern has the tools, information, and support they need to complete their tasks successfully.
• Encourage Ownership and Responsibility: Empower the intern to take ownership of their work and hold them accountable for the outcomes.
• Regularly Review Progress and Performance: Conduct regular performance reviews to assess the intern’s progress, provide feedback, and adjust goals if necessary.

Additional Tips

• Make the Work Meaningful: Help the intern see how their work contributes to the world with their code used by so many others world wide.
• Celebrate Successes: Celebrate the intern’s accomplishments and milestones, both big and small. Use discord generously for this.
• Be Patient and Understanding: Remember that the intern is new and may need time to adjust and learn. Be patient and provide constructive feedback to help them grow.