Employers often comment on the lack of qualified applicants for positions. They are missing an opportunity by overlooking the benefits a work-placement student can bring to the organization. By viewing these placements as an extended interview, managers can save on future recruitment expenses.

A survey of more than 100 graduate recruiters ranked the various ways of recruiting top quality graduates. The number one most effective method was work-experience/internships. These students can be put on projects that have been put on the back burner due to lack of time or manpower. They are also good resources for new ideas, and may be aware of new technologies that would prove useful. They bring a fresh set of eyes to spot new opportunities and suggest effective new working practices.

Internships are two-way processes, however, and employers need to provide good support for the student.