According to Stevenson’s Career Connection, “Micro-internships are short-term, paid, professional assignments that are similar to those given to new hires or interns. These projects enable Career Launchers [interns] to demonstrate skills, explore career paths, and build their networks as they seek the right full-time role.”

“Unlike traditional internships, Micro-Internships can take place year-round, typically range from 5 to 40 hours of work, and are due between one week and one month after kick-off. Micro-internships are used by companies ranging from those in the Fortune 100 to emerging start-ups, and go across departments including sales, marketing, technology, HR, and finance. Micro-internships are facilitated via the Parker Dewey platform, which connects Career Launchers with companies in need of support.”

Interested interns can look at different careers and put to work their abilities and skills, while still building a professional portfolio and network. Many of these micro-internships are also paid. Interns spend their time working on projects for their employer, and can develop relationships with mentors and other employers.

Here’s a possible example of a marketing micro-internship: The intern… “will draft a 1,200-1,400 word article that is consistent with existing content your team has published. The content will include at least two outside sources to backup claims. Just provide the topic and any requests or preferences (e.g., which outside sources to cite, formal versus informal style, examples you like, etc.) and the [intern] will handle the rest. When it’s done, you can use the article for blogging, downloadable content, social posts, and more.”

Micro-internships also afford a chance for the intern to see if his or her chosen career path is the right one before making a full-time commitment. When employers look on resumes for job experience, a micro-internship may be just the thing. It’s easy to get started on your search — it takes only five minutes — by clicking here.