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Chapter 38 - Power and Productivity in Creative Industry Internships

Suzy D’Enbeau

Synopsis

This case explores the challenges around intern expectations at a feminist media organization, Moxie. The case follows McKenzie, an applied communication major embarking on an internship as part of her major requirements, and four other young, female interns who hope to gain valuable experiences for their anticipated careers in publishing. In general, intern commentary and interactions reveal the conflicting emotions they experienced as their positive image of the organization was shattered by their internship experiences that included verbal reprimands, unfulfilling and tedious work, unclear expectations, and little to no direction. On the other hand, Donna and Lucy, the editor-in-chief and creative director, respectively at Moxie, are wondering whether their internship program is creating extra work for them rather than alleviating some of the burden.

Keywords: Internship, Gender, Feminism, Ambivalence, Organizational Image

Key Takeaways and Take a Stand Form

Key Takeaways

  1. The public image of an organization can influence worker expectations for what that organization’s culture will be like.
  2. Relatedly, the institutional context or type of industry can influence (and constrain) organizing processes, work requirements, and job descriptions.
  3. It is important to consider the potential for competing expectations of employers and employees/interns in order to develop productive common ground that allows all parties to benefit.
  4. An organization’s goals can be in conflict or in tension with an individual’s goals.

Take a Stand Form