Hiring a technology student is no different than hiring any other contract or fulltime employee. Here are some guidelines to consider when hiring a technology student:

Interview

• Like other hires, tech students need a description of the job that clearly outlines their objectives and expectations as well as the hourly rate and project timeline. (sometimes this can be documented in such  a way that it could be used as a contract)
• It is important to review samples of their work and even contact references or professors that have experience with their skills.
• In some cases, a trial or small exercise (less than 1 hour) is appropriate as part of the interview that could demonstrate their skill set.
• Technology terms can get tricky, if you would like TechStudents.net to help you interview a tech student please contact us directly with this request.

Hire

• Provide a policy statement that requires a signature regarding the confidentiality requirements.
• Agree on communication schedule and channels (emails, phone calls or in-person meetings). 
• Agree on milestones dates for the project.

During the Project

• Encourage technology student to provide ideas, feedback or options.  Many of these tech students are very skilled and provide excellent input and alternatives.
• When review milestones, provide constructive feedback during these critical times.  Do not nag or ignore the tech students.  It is important to have open and continuous communication where both parties share information.

 After the Project

• Review the project pros and cons.
• Write a reference letter or offer to be a reference.
• If it makes sense, provide opportunities to promote the student’s work.
• Provide feedback to TechStudents.net (info@techstudents.net) and we will often feature your company on our site that receives over 2500 hits a week.