TAP-Partner OM2: Navigating the Challenges of a Remote Internship

Daniela Zimmer Founder and CEO OM2

At OM2, we recently welcomed a remote intern from TAP into our team. Remote internships
have become increasingly common, offering both opportunities and challenges. While the
experience started with a few hurdles—such as cultural differences and the difficulties of
not meeting in person—it ultimately turned into a rewarding collaboration.

So how did we manage to overcome these challenges and successfully integrated our remote
intern into our team?

What were the initial challenges?

When our remote intern, Ameer, first joined OM2, the biggest challenge was the lack of personal interaction. Unlike traditional internships where you can quickly build rapport through face-to-face meetings, we had to rely on Zoom-Video-Calls. This made it more difficult to establish a connection and understand each other's working styles right away. Additionally, the cultural differences between our team and the intern presented a unique set of challenges. Simple things like communication preferences, work habits, and even the way feedback was given and received varied, making it crucial for us to adapt and find common ground.

How did we manage remote work effectively?

To overcome these challenges, we implemented a structured approach to remote work. We
began by establishing communication channels What’s App and Google and scheduling
regular morning check-ins on Zoom. These virtual meetings were not just about work; they
were also an opportunity to get to know each other better, helping to build trust and a sense
of belonging. We kept each other in the loop about the progress and it was also a way to
ensure that Ameer felt like a valued part of the team. We also provided detailed onboarding materials that included an introduction to our company culture, ongoing projects, and team dynamics, which helped the intern get up to speed quickly.

What role did cultural sensitivity play?

Understanding and respecting cultural differences were key to the success of this remote internship. We made it a point to educate ourselves about Ameer’s cultural background and encouraged open dialogue about any cultural misunderstandings. This not only helped in creating a more inclusive environment but also enriched our team's overall perspective. By being culturally sensitive, we were able to create a work atmosphere where he felt comfortable expressing differing ideas and opinions, which in turn contributed to the success of our projects.

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What were the results?

The challenges we faced at the beginning of the internship ultimately became opportunities for growth. Ameer quickly adapted to the remote working environment and began contributing meaningfully to our projects. The unique perspective, shaped by his cultural background and experience, added significant value to our work. The internship not only benefited him, gaining practical experience and new skills, but also enriched our team, making it more diverse and innovative. The success of this remote internship has reinforced our belief that with the right strategies, remote work can be just as effective—if not more so—than traditional office-based work!

Our experience with hosting a remote intern from TAP at OM2 has been a journey of learning, adaptation, and ultimately, success. While the beginning was challenging, we’ve learned that with clear communication, cultural sensitivity, and a collaborative approach, these challenges can be managed successfully. This experience has shown us that remote internships are not just feasible but can also be highly rewarding for both the intern and the organization.