Internship Insights
2025-07-16 00:37:37

The Disconnect Between Interns and Companies: Insights from a New Survey by Lightworks

Understanding the Disconnect in Internship Programs



In a recent survey conducted by Lightworks, a leading company in the learning management system (LMS) sector, significant gaps between the expectations of interns and the objectives of companies were revealed. Approximately 80% of organizations implement training programs for their interns; however, the actual content and objectives of these programs often do not align with what interns truly need. This discrepancy can lead to various issues, including increased dropout rates and lower engagement levels post-hiring.

Key Insights from the Survey



The survey, which spanned companies and recent graduates aiming for positions in various sectors, identified several crucial points regarding interns’ expectations and companies’ training objectives. Interestingly, 54.9% of interns expressed their foremost concern was whether they would be competent in their future roles, highlighting the pressure they feel leading up to their start dates.

Moreover, over 70% of interns rated their training positively; still, a staggering 64.7% of them reported dissatisfaction due to the content being ineffective or lacking practical application. The survey found that while companies focused on reducing dropouts (31.8%), interns were more interested in forming a realistic image of their future jobs (54.8%). They seek strategies that not only prepare them for the role ahead but also ensure that they can thrive after joining the organization.

Three Primary Discrepancies Identified



1. Purpose Misalignment


While companies aim primarily at reducing internship dropout rates, interns look for ways to enhance their future performance. Feedback from the survey indicates that interns often feel unprepared for real-world challenges and prefer programs that provide them with relevant work knowledge.

2. Content Discrepancy


Interns voiced significant disappointment over the lack of practical information in training. Instead of receiving effective skills relevant to their potential positions, training often revolves around basic corporate etiquette. The survey highlighted a growing demand for practical industry insights that better align with their future roles, with around 35.5% advocating for specific knowledge pertinent to their incoming departments.

3. Effectiveness Variations


Surprisingly, even as companies grapple with resource limitations related to training (47.7% of companies), they noted that initiatives like informal gatherings and networking events yielded better engagement results than structured training. Interns appreciated these social interactions, noting that they foster a sense of belonging and ease the transition into corporate culture.

Solutions Offered by Lightworks


In response to these findings, Lightworks has introduced e-learning solutions designed to bridge the gap between interns’ expectations and corporate training deficiencies. Their offerings focus on mobile-friendly, micro-learning modules aimed at equipping interns with necessary skills while minimizing the strain on their schedules.

Core Topics Covered


1. Business Communication: Teaching foundational skills such as workplace etiquette.
2. IT Fundamentals: Ensuring interns gain proficiency in essential software like Word and Excel, which are critical for practically every field.
3. Self-Management: Aiding interns to develop time management skills, fostering independence in their work habits.

These e-learning resources are adaptable for use from internship training through to entry-level onboarding, streamlining the training process for companies and enhancing the development of their workforce.

Special Offer: Internship Training Content Included!


Currently, Lightworks is running a limited-time promotional campaign for their all-in-one service, CAREERSHIP GROWTH, which encompasses over 1,000 e-learning pieces and a learning management system—all at no charge for three months. For more details, visit Lightworks.

Research Overview


The study consisted of responses from 441 recent graduates aged 23 to 27 who secured positions in private and public sectors, alongside 224 HR professionals participating in a parallel survey. Conducted online, this survey collected insights revealing crucial perspectives on internship training dynamics.

To download the full report detailing this intriguing study join the discussion at Lightworks’ educational portal: Download the Report.

About Lightworks


Lightworks utilizes cutting-edge ICT and proprietary educational methods to offer the CAREERSHIP learning management system and related e-learning materials, thereby aiding organizations in fostering the growth of their employees while enhancing service quality and corporate productivity.


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