Setting Clear Expectations from Day 1

Step 1: Define the Scope of Work

Clearly outline what the intern will focus on.

Include:

• What they will be working on
• What they will not be expected to do
  
  

This prevents scope drift and ensures work remains realistic and aligned with intern capability and business goals.

Tip: Share a short written project brief so the intern has a clear reference throughout the internship.

Step 2: Confirm the Working Structure

Clarify logistics early to avoid confusion later.

Confirm:

• Working hours, accounting for time zones
• Meeting cadence, such as weekly 1:1s or team calls
• Reporting lines, including the primary supervisor
• Communication channels, such as email, Slack, Teams, or Zoom
  
  

Be clear about how often updates are expected and in what format, for example progress summaries or task trackers.

Step 3: Set Professional Standards

Establish professional norms from the outset.

Clarify expectations around:

• Punctuality for meetings and deadlines
• Responsiveness on communication platforms
• Camera and microphone use during calls
• Professional tone in written communication
  
  

Clear standards help interns adapt quickly and engage with confidence.

Tip: Show examples of effective messages or email formats to demonstrate expected communication style.