Frequently Asked Questions

Intern FAQs

I want to be an intern, how does it work?

Register in 3 mins on the Intern Registration page. Fill in the form and go on the waitlist. As new hosts register, they are assigned the Commsgrad at the top of the waitlist. No applying! 😁

We support Commsgrads throughout their experience with any questions. After completion, Commsgrads will receive a personalised reference to go on their CV.

I’m unsure of something, who can I ask?

Internship hosts are made aware that you are still learning and cannot expect you to know everything. However, if you feel uncomfortable asking, you can reach out to commsgrad@gmail.com and we will get back to you as soon as possible. We are in your corner.

What if my internship host won’t give me a reference?

Internship hosts are asked to give you a reference, there are circumstances in which this may differ. To receive a reference you must ensure you conduct yourself professionally and make sure to complete your tasks to the best of your ability. We will always try to make sure you get your reference, as we know how crucial they are to finding a job, however, if there is cause to believe that you have not completed the internship properly, they do not have to provide you with a reference. Ultimately, you are representing the employer’s business and therefore it is their reputation at stake, so they will only give you a reference if they believe you have conducted yourself professionally and are happy to vouch for you professionally.

I’m not happy with my internship, do I have to complete it?

We won’t force you to complete an internship, however, once committing to one it is expected that you will show up and try your best. Commsgrad has implemented a 'one strike and you're out' policy. Commsgrads are required to give an explanation within the week as to why they are unable to complete the internship, and if they ghost, they will be deregistered from the site. We totally get that life can get in the way sometimes, so if your situation changes and you're unable to complete your internship, shoot an email to commsgrad@gmail.com, and one to your host, and just let us know.

Host FAQs

I want to book an intern, how does it work?

You register as an internship host HERE and then you will be assigned at the next Commsgrad on the top of the list. We will connect you both on email to take it from there.

Keep in mind:

  • Commsgrads are currently studying, so this is their opportunity to put their theory into practice. They are not seasoned experts yet, this type of hands-on learning is invaluable for them to transition from study to their first professional role.

  • With the Commsgrads being students, they are an excellent set of extra hands for your digital communications to-do list but need to be briefed and managed as they are new to the workforce. Things we take for granted with professional basics is all new to them still. Patience and setting tasks with this in mind is key to a great experience for both parties.

  • WIN-WIN - these remote internships have been created as a win-win after much industry, customer, and student consultation. The value they receive in exchange for their time is the learning and referral from the customer. These referrals that they can list on their CV will greatly help them to secure their first professional role.

Who is Commsgrad best suited for?

Commsgrad is a platform for both students seeking real-life work experience and businesses that would love an extra set of hands for their digital comms to-do lists.

We have seen small businesses and startups really love the extra set of remote hands and then end up hiring their Commsgrads into a role. Internship hosts are not limited to any kind of business or industry.

Can I choose which Commsgrad I work with?

We don’t offer a selection of Commsgrads. We do this to eliminate any potential bias on this platform and do our part in trying to make a difference for diversity in the communications field and access to work experience.

Can I change which Commsgrad I am working with?

Once you have started an internship, you cannot change your assigned Commsgrad unless there are issues that are unable to be resolved. This will be managed on a case-by-case basis determined by the Commsgrad management team. Commsgrad will resolve the matter within 7 business days from the date the issue is raised. To raise any issues or change Commsgrad’s you can email commsgrad@gmail.com

How do I communicate with my Commsgrad?

Communication between Internship Hosts and Commgrads is at your discretion. Professional etiquette and guidelines are in place and should be adhered to by both Commsgrads and Internship Hosts.

Customers and Commgrad contractors are not permitted to meet in person without prior approval from Commsgrad management. This is for the safety of all parties.

Can I meet my Commsgrad?

We are an online platform and do not allow our Commsgrad’s to meet in person during unpaid internships due to safety risks. If you end up moving to the paid internship extension, you may do so then as it will fall under your own business insurances and responsibility.

Can I call my Commsgrad?

Once your intern has been placed you may organise a time to either call or video call your Commsgrad via Zoom, Google Hangouts, Teams, or mobile.

What can I expect from Commsgrads?

Our Commsgrads can work on anything within the ‘Comms Bucket’, apart from contacting media. This is to protect your business and the Commsgrads. Commsgrads can be asked to do anything that will help out your business and look good on their resume. Check out our blog post on the kinds of tasks they can work on.

What happens if my Commsgrad can’t complete the internship?

We follow a check-in procedure every 3 weeks with your business and the assigned Commsgrad, ensuring that you both have a positive experience. If you find yourself stuck in an issue regarding the Commsgrad not completing the internship, please contact us via email at commsgrad@gmail.com, and we will urgently solve any issues faced.

Can I pause my Commsgrad booking?

When the Commsgrad has been assigned it must be completed within the 6-week block unless there is an issue with the Commsgrad. Reach out to commsgrad@gmail.com if there are circumstances that prevent this so we can help manage this.

I am not happy with my Commsgrad service.

We work hard to make sure both your business and the Commsgrads have a positive experience using the platform. If you have any concerns or issues please notify us via email at commsgrad@gmail.com and we will urgently solve any issues. Your success is our Commgrad’s success, and our Commgrad’s success is our success. Your feedback, whether positive or negative about your Commsgrad, experience, the platform, or the results is an important way that we help improve and develop. In the instance that we believe the Commsgrad has not completed the internship properly or has not acted in a professional manner, you are not required to provide a reference.

Can I get a refund?

We do not provide refunds. If there are major issues with your placement, we will extend your membership by the weeks affected. This has never happened before, but will be provided on a case-by-case basis, determined by the Commsgrad management team. If you have any issues, email commsgrad@gmail.com