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What it Takes to be a Host Employer |
- A Host Employer should understand that the program is a cultural exchange program – not just a staffing solution. There are benefits of this program to your business and the lives of your current staff and customers that can not be matched by other recruitment venues.
- A Host Employer should be able to plan ahead. Recruitment goals are set 6-8 months in advance. This requires a stable business and a working knowledge of seasonal staffing needs.
- A Host Employer should be in a desirable location. Whether it is beach front, near a national park, in a big city, or in a warm and welcoming small town, the job site location needs to offer something special. Historically, students are drawn to locations with lots to do, a beautiful natural setting, and/or a large seasonal population of other International and American University-age students.
- A Host Employer should be able to provide housing or leads on available housing options. Students can be housed in apartments, motels, tent cabins, yurts, travel trailers, etc.
- A Host Employer should be biking or walking distance from student housing, provide transportation to and from work, or be in a location where public transportation is available – best if on a bus route, etc. so they can get around for shopping, sightseeing, and exploring.
- A Host Employer should be patient and understanding – For some of these students it is their first job or even the first time they have been away from home. Taking the time to explain things builds trust and understanding with the student.
- A Host Employer should work in partnership with AWA. AWA prides itself on building relationships with Host Employers that last for years. It is important that each side understands the needs of the other and that communication lines are always open.
- A Host Employer should want to create a welcoming work environment for their student employees. Some of the best employers take the time to do fun things with the students, like International dinners where the employer provides the food and students cook and talk about their county. Students love to be included in group events and outings. Think about inviting them to share in local activities and celebrations. 4th of July, for instance, can be a great time to share American culture and history with the students.
- A Host Employer should be flexible in their expectations. Where the “human element” is involved, it is always safe to expect the unexpected. J1 Work/Travel participants have visa denials, cancelations, delays, and no shows. Some are homesick, unhappy, or unsatisfied with their job or even the program as a whole. At AWA, we do our best to manage expectations and set up our students and Host Employers for success!
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