The Importance of Internships and Practical’s: How to Benefit Your Company

Julie Starr • February 28, 2022



A recent study showed that 82% of employers believe that practical experience, such as internships and practicums, is crucial when it comes to finding the right employees. This is because these experiences give students a chance to apply their learning in a real-world setting and develop the skills they need to be successful in their chosen field.

Benefits for the Student 

As a student, you may be wondering why internships are so important. After all, you already have a lot on your plate with classes and homework. However, internships and practicals are essential for a couple of reasons.

Gain Experience 

They offer students the opportunity to gain experience in their desired field and learn new skills, which can give them an edge when they graduate and look for a job.

See What it is Like to Work in a Certain Field or Industry

It gives students the chance to learn about different aspects of the company and how everything works together. It also allows them to develop new skills and knowledge that they may not have learned in school.

To Be or Not to Be

Not only will you learn about what it is like to work in a specific field or industry, but you will also be able to determine if that is something you would like to pursue as a career. It can be an invaluable experience that will help you decide on your future career path.

Network with Professionals 

They also give you the chance to network with professionals and build relationships that can help you in your career.

Earn While Learning 

You can also earn money during the internship or practical period. Although it might not be a full-fledged salary, it is satisfying to be able to get cash in your account while gaining the knowledge needed to further your future.

Benefits for the Company

Suppose your company offers internships or places to do practicals, congratulations! You are already ahead of the curve when it comes to preparing your employees for the real world. But why is this so important? And what benefits can your company reap from offering these opportunities? First, of course, there are many benefits that internships offer employers as well. 

Team Player and Hard Worker

They can help with tasks that may be outside of the normal scope of work for full-time employees, which in turn will free up time for employees to work on more critical projects.

Evaluate if it’s a Perfect 

They also allow companies to evaluate potential employees in a real-world setting and see if they would be a good fit for the company.  

Fresh Blood 

Get new ideas from the student. Interns can provide fresh perspectives on projects. You can also gain new skills and knowledge from the student.

Give Back to the Community 

If your company is looking for a way to give back to the community , offering internships or places to do practicals is a great way to do it. 

Hiring Made Easy 

In addition, internships can help employers save money on training costs, and they provide a way to assess potential future employees.

Budget-Friendly

Interns and those doing practicals are often cheaper to hire than experienced employees; in some cases, they may even work for free.

Where to Find Internships and Practicals Companies 

If you’re interested in finding an internship, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, think about what you want to get out of the experience. Do you want to learn new skills? Gain experience in your field? Or network with professionals? Once you know what you’re looking for, you can start your search. There are many online resources that can help you find internships and practicals. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Company website
  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook pages of companies you’re interested in working for
  • Job boards (e.g., Indeed, Glassdoor)
  • Local newspapers/classifieds sections
  • Career fairs
  • Internships.com
  • Preceptor Tree  

Internships on the Rise 

Did you know that according to a study done by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, 63.1% of employers planned to hire interns? Internships and practicals are becoming more and more popular every year, and for a good reason! They offer many benefits for both the employer and the employee. 

If you are a company, consider offering internships and practicals to students. It is a great way to evaluate potential employees and also gives the company new ideas. Hiring interns full-time is a win-win for both the company and the student!

A Greener Supply Chain with Micro Fulfillment

By Julie Starr • May 23, 2025
A sustainable supply chain is made possible with some major shifts and minor changes that you may not consider at first. One of these is micro fulfillment, where strategically placed warehouses provide streamlined services to a smaller area. So, what are some of the benefits of changing your logistics? From consolidated deliveries to minimal eco-impact, here are a few. Closer Customer Proximity There are a few ways that micro fulfillment centers are revolutionizing the courier industry. Reduced emissions, local sourcing, and support for urban stability are just three of the many examples. Compact logistics are quickly becoming a solution for businesses that want to make a difference, and through small warehouse space for rent , as and when needed, environmental footprints are diminishing as companies deliver services and goods to a smaller customer area. Consolidated Delivery Options Efficiency is everything in business, but it is even more critical when a company is looking to reduce the environmental impact of its operations. Through a micro-fulfillment system, a business is able to reduce the overall number of trips that a courier has to make. With consolidated deliveries concentrated in a smaller geographic area, there are many more options available that contribute to a lower impact, including efficient use of fuel for lower emissions. A Greener Supply Chain with Route Efficiency A company can make many changes when becoming the green link in the supply chain for a healthier logistical operation. However, an average home delivery round for a standard courier service is 50 miles, with 0.42 miles between each drop-off, producing 181g of carbon each. Focusing on a smaller area through micro fulfillment reduce the associated issues with couriers: Being closer to delivery routes reduces the need for extra shipping options. Electric delivery vehicles can be used as there is no need to recharge them. Knowledge of the area helps with routes as drivers can avoid congested areas. Lower Environmental Impact Of course, all efforts to go green and become more sustainable through logistics are to reduce the environmental impact that a business has on the area. Micro fulfillment contributes to this in a way that a wider operation cannot. Shorter routes and enhanced inventory management actively reduce waste. There is also much less energy used, as micro fulfillment centers are designed to be energy-efficient, and EVs and less transport contribute to emission reduction. Enhanced Socioeconomic Benefits There is also a social and economic impact of a business. An enhanced and more sustainable business using local micro fulfillment centers instantly creates more jobs, helping to prop up the local economy. Of course, the efficiency of this type of logistical operation also results in happier customers, increasing the chance of repeat business. From a business perspective, you demonstrate a commitment to ongoing sustainability , appealing to eco-conscious customers. Summary Being closer to customers for delivery helps create a greener supply chain when used with micro fulfillment centers. Local couriers and employees also know the area and can avoid congested areas for streamlined operations. However, there are also social and economic benefits such as job creation, improved customer experiences, and enhanced brand reputation.

Sustainability in Ecommerce: 3 Ways to Make Progress Where It Matters

By Julie Starr • May 21, 2025
Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have—it's essential. That’s true across every industry, and ecommerce is no exception. But let’s be honest: building a more sustainable ecommerce business isn’t always straightforward. From packaging to supply chains to last-mile delivery, the challenges are real—and often feel like they’re outside your control. But here’s the good news: sustainable ecommerce is absolutely possible. And it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Small, strategic shifts can make a meaningful difference—not just for the planet, but for your customers and your brand’s longevity. Here are three actionable ways you can move the needle toward a more environmentally responsible ecommerce business. Choose Sustainable Packaging That Works for People and Planet Packaging is often one of the most visible and wasteful—aspects of ecommerce. From oversized boxes to plastic fillers, the impact adds up fast. But it doesn’t have to. Thoughtful, sustainable packaging design can dramatically reduce your environmental footprint. Start by right-sizing your shipments to reduce excess material and emissions. Opt for recycled, recyclable, or compostable materials that align with circular economy principles. Better yet, one option is to design custom boxes with sustainable materials, for example. These custom packaging solutions eliminate unnecessary layers while enhancing your brand’s presentation. These aren’t just more sustainable choices, they’re smarter ones. Today’s customers care about where materials come from, and where they end up. Your packaging can reflect your commitment to both. Partner with Purpose: Choose Sustainable Suppliers Your supply chain is an extension of your brand and one of the most powerful levers you have to reduce your environmental impact. You could end up using more than a few suppliers when you’re running an ecommerce company . It’s always worth making sure these are as sustainable as possible . While you may not control every aspect of your suppliers’ operations, you do control who you choose to work with. Prioritize suppliers who share your commitment to sustainability. Look for transparency in sourcing, third-party certifications, and a clear track record of environmental and ethical practices. Ask the right questions: Are their materials responsibly sourced? Do they minimize waste and emissions? How do they treat their workforce? Choosing partners who align with your values not only improves the sustainability of your products—it strengthens your brand’s integrity and resilience. When your supply chain reflects your mission, it creates trust and long-term value across your business. Lead with Impact: Promote Environmental Awareness Sustainability doesn’t stop at your supply chain. As an ecommerce business, you have a unique platform to elevate environmental causes and inspire meaningful change within and beyond your operations. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of highlighting and supporting various sustainable initiatives and causes around the world. One powerful way to do this is by supporting organizations and initiatives that align with your values. Whether it’s donating a portion of your profits, partnering with mission-driven nonprofits, or amplifying important causes across your website and social channels, your advocacy matters. By shining a light on solutions and inviting your customers to participate, you strengthen your brand’s purpose and build a community rooted in shared responsibility. This isn’t just good for the planet; it’s good for business. Sustainable ecommerce is entirely possible. With the right mindset and a few strategic shifts, your business can lead with integrity, reduce its footprint, and become part of a much-needed transformation in the digital economy.