Acting Like Owners: The Hormel Foods Internship Program

They’re stepping in, speaking up and taking action. “I took initiative by making my own decisions within the scope of my project and bringing up new ideas for the team to incorporate during our weekly meeting,” says on of the students. Others are building connections to learn faster. “I took initiative by reaching out to leaders in different areas of the business to set up one-on-one meetings to learn about their departments’ roles in the business.”

The interns also are moving work ahead without waiting. “I took initiative by doing my own research on my project and consulting cross-functional teams without being given explicit direction.” In plants and facilities, that ownership shows up in action. One intern “took the initiative to reach out to vendors and contractors to obtain quotes and schedule walkthroughs,” helping keep projects on track.

Many are raising their hands, even if they don’t feel fully ready. “The territory manager asked me if I would want to help him with his presentation for a distributor next week. I had not yet completed the training module but knew that I could in time and put together a strong 15-minute presentation.”

This is what it looks like to act like an owner. Take initiative. Stay curious. Move things forward.

Way to go, interns! Keep up the great work.