As a small business owner, you have limited resources when it comes to hiring additional employees. Instead of draining your overhead by hiring an additional employee, have you considered creating an internship program? Many interns are willing to work unpaid in exchange for experience building opportunities. Instead of paying an intern with money, you will be paying them with your time and expertise, which is truly invaluable.
Internship-seeking college students are bright individuals who are proactively working to build their resume and skill set. College students are extremely curious, which is a huge advantage to you. At this point in their life, they are looking to explore new opportunities, work environments, and job functions to get an idea for their future career path. Do you have random projects that need some well-thought work? An intern would be thrilled to take it on.
Interns can bring a ton of energy and new insights to your business. When was the last time you got some direct feedback from a 20-year-old? Remember, this generation can barely remember life before the Internet. Maybe you need help with updating your current low-tech processes? Or, brainstorming new marketing ideas? An intern can be a great resource for this.
Remember, interns require time. You are offering them experience and education for their time.  It is illegal to have an intern doing routine office chores without paying them an hourly wage. By hiring an intern, you are investing your time, which is a great way to support your local university community. In addition, employers who get a great internship reputation are highly desired for employment after graduation. By implementing a valuable internship program, you could be benefitting your future recruiting efforts. You will also have direct access to your intern after they graduate for employment opportunities.