Further Investigation of the Factors that Influence Conversion of Interns into Satisfied Full-Time Employees

Jessica L. Hurst	Linda S. Niehm

Further Investigation of the Factors that Influence Conversion of Interns into Satisfied Full-Time Employees

Investigators: Jessica L. Hurst, PI, AESHM
Linda S. Niehm, Co-PI, AESHM

Funding: $5000

Duration: 1 year

Abstract: Due to an impending labor shortage that is predicted to hit the Human Sciences (HS) sub-discipline areas of retail, hospitality and food services most dramatically, companies must compete more vigorously to attract and retain the best talent. Offering pre-professional internships is one way companies can compete. This research will study HS college juniors and seniors who have successfully obtained/completed a retail or services-related internship. Our aim is to identify salient factors that motivate interns to accept/decline an offer for full-time employment from their internship company. The results of this study will provide practical implications to aid in the development of internship programs and assist in the educational and professional development of HS interns.

Additional Information: This study will also examine interns psychological contract obligations i.e., their perceptions of mutual obligations between themselves and their companies both before and after their internship experiences. The effects of these perceived obligations on job satisfaction, perceptions of advancement opportunities, and organizational commitment will also be investigated.