Internships are meant to help students and early professionals gain real-world experience. But what happens when many of these opportunities aren’t even real?
Here’s what internship seekers are facing:
- 50% of internship postings get reposted weeks later—with no real hiring in sight
- 40% of roles go “on hold” or get canceled after multiple interview rounds
- 40% of internships don’t even exist—they’re just collecting resumes and personal data
- Many listings offer unpaid work, disguised as “experience-building” but exploit student talent
This isn’t just frustrating—it’s exploitative. Many companies post internships to test market demand, build a free workforce, or create an illusion of company growth. Meanwhile, candidates spend weeks applying, interviewing, and hoping—only to hit a dead end. Some even get pitched expensive courses instead of real opportunities.
How LinkedIn Can Fix It
- Internship verification – Ensure companies prove they are actively hiring interns
- Genuine opportunities only – Block unpaid internships unless clearly stated
- Expiration dates – Auto-remove listings after 30 days unless the company confirms hiring
- Interview progress transparency – Show stats on how many applicants got interviews or offers
- Intern feedback system – Allow past interns to rate and review companies
Interns deserve real opportunities—not ghost listings.
Have you ever applied for an internship that went nowhere? Let’s expose the issue and push for change.
For career advisory services, visit www.consultvineet.com.
