Qualities of Effective Interns 

Respondents commented on behaviors that distinguish effective from ineffective interns. While technical skills (particularly statistical knowledge) are considered important, respondents emphasized interpersonal skills, work ethic (e.g., conscientiousness, results orientation), and ability to demonstrate initiative and be proactive. Communication skills are also critical for interns, especially the ability to translate complex statistical or methodological information into business or lay-terminology. Additionally, respondents mentioned quality orientation, adaptability, continuous learning (e.g., recognizes weaknesses, seeks information, quick learner, accepts feedback), and problem solving as being key characteristics of effective interns. Finally, respondents indicated that effective interns understand the constraints placed on I/O research techniques in business environments and are willing and able to make appropriate trade-offs between scientific rigor and business realities.

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