The topic of paying interns in the interior design industry sparks a lot of discussion. While internships are often considered a learning experience, compensating interns fairly is essential for creating a professional and mutually beneficial relationship.
How much should you pay your interns? Should it depend on their location, experience, or the tasks they handle? Let’s explore this topic and provide actionable advice for interior designers looking to hire and compensate interns appropriately.
The Role of Interns in Interior Design
Interns are typically brought on to support your business while gaining real-world experience. Their tasks may include:
- Assisting with client presentations.
- Managing sample libraries.
- Picking up or returning merchandise.
- Attending client meetings for exposure and learning.
While they’re not full-time employees, interns often require significant supervision and guidance, which is an investment of your time and resources. Therefore, determining fair compensation is key to setting expectations and ensuring a successful partnership.
Key Considerations When Setting Pay
When deciding how to compensate your interns, consider the following factors:
1. Location and Cost of Living
Pay rates should reflect the local cost of living and minimum wage laws. For instance, an intern in New York City would likely require higher pay than one in a smaller town due to living expenses.
2. Experience and Skill Level
Interns with prior experience in design firms or specialized skills like CAD or rendering may warrant higher pay. Their contributions can be more valuable, reducing the need for extensive training.
3. Time Commitment
If an intern is working just a few hours per week or sporadically, a lower hourly rate or stipend may be appropriate. For interns working more regularly, consider offering a competitive hourly wage.
4. Additional Perks
Not all compensation has to be monetary. Interns often value:
- Flexible schedules.
- Mentorship and professional guidance.
- Reimbursement for mileage or meals.
- Networking opportunities.
Common Payment Structures
Here are some common approaches to paying interns in the interior design industry:
1. Hourly Pay
Paying an hourly wage is a straightforward option. Rates typically range from $12 to $25 per hour, depending on the intern’s location and experience.
2. Stipends
A flat stipend paid monthly or at the end of the internship can be an alternative for short-term or part-time interns.
3. School Credit with Perks
Some interns may only require school credit, but offering perks like meals, gas stipends, and flexible schedules can make the experience more rewarding.
4. Hybrid Approach
Combine a lower hourly wage with perks like mentoring, networking opportunities, or exposure to high-profile projects to create a well-rounded experience.
Legal Considerations
It’s important to ensure your internship program complies with local labor laws. Here are some key points:
- Unpaid Internships: These are typically only allowed if the internship is primarily educational and benefits the intern more than the employer.
- Paid Internships: Paying at least minimum wage often eliminates legal gray areas and attracts more committed interns.
- 1099 vs. W-2: If your intern is working consistently and under your supervision, they may need to be classified as a W-2 employee rather than a 1099 contractor.
Consult a legal or HR professional if you’re unsure about compliance in your region.
Insights from the Interior Design Community
Here’s how some of our peers approach paying interns:
- idgreenlist: “I paid mine $15/hr + mileage for tasks like returning or picking up merchandise. They get school credit too and need a lot of direction, so I don’t pay them the same as an assistant.”
- katykrider.id: “I paid $20 per hour for a part-time summer intern in Portland. I wanted to ensure they were fairly compensated and treated this as a professional position.”
- meredithheroncollection: “We pay a livable wage and offer benefits and bonuses if we hire them. Minimum wage isn’t enough to ensure their full attention and commitment.”
- serenityhomestyling: “$25 in the New York Metro area, and they’ve all been very good.”
- theflairhunter: “$15 or more depending on their experience and skills like CAD or digital rendering, especially if I’m considering them for regular employment.”
Benefits of Paying Interns Fairly
Paying your interns fairly isn’t just the ethical thing to do—it also benefits your business:
- Attracts High-Quality Candidates: Competitive pay ensures you get talented and motivated individuals.
- Boosts Commitment: Paid interns are more likely to take their responsibilities seriously.
- Fosters a Positive Reputation: Being known as a fair employer helps you attract top talent in the future.
- Encourages Long-Term Relationships: Interns who feel valued are more likely to stay with your firm or recommend it to others.
Final Thoughts
Compensating interns fairly is an investment in your business and the future of the interior design industry. Whether you pay hourly, offer a stipend, or provide perks, the key is creating a professional and enriching experience for both parties.
Your Turn!
How do you compensate your interns? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below to help other designers navigate this topic!