Summer time is here, and for some, that means shorts and bikini tops, while for others, it means the start of intern season.  Students and recent grads are sending out applications in droves, and companies often find themselves swamped with applications. 

How do you tell the great from the good?  Here’s a couple things to look out for:

1) A healthy bit of OCD

Attention to detail is key, especially if the role entails doing repetitive tasks like data entry.  No, that doesn’t mean you need to nitpick every missing comma on a cover letter, but people who sweat the small stuff tend to be a lot more trustworthy when it comes to dealing with the big fish. 

2) They’ve been around the block (or at least peered around the corner)
This might sound contradictory; after all, aren’t internships typically filled by people looking for more work experience?  Well, while that’s true, you may find that candidates have relevant experience in the form of classroom assignments, campus activities, or part-time jobs.  It’s likely that someone who’s spent a lot of time trying to get into similar roles in a volunteer or extracurriculur capacity is going to be a lot more passionate about doing the same kind of work for you. 

3) They’re a Curious George (or Georgette)
Internships are designed to teach valuable work skills to people entering or re-entering the workforce, and part of finding a great intern involves snagging someone who embraces the learning part just as much as the “getting a job” part.  One of the easiest ways to sniff out an eager learner is to see whether they’re curious about the role and what their responsibilities will be.  If they seem to turn their nose up at some of the more dreary or menial tasks, then that might be a sign that they’re mainly in it for the possible job opportunity. 

4) They’re a culture fit
Personality’s a tough thing to screen for, but one way to do it is to avoid just asking questions that could easily be answered by browsing your company website for 5 minutes; instead, ask questions relating to the company’s vision and how your role specifically will help them achieve their career goals.   

Original article:
http://www.forbes.com/sites/dailymuse/2012/06/13/how-to-hire-your-best-intern-ever/