Case: Trading Internships?
Small business owners and corporate executives have long faced the problem of whether to hire their children for summer internships and entry-level positions. On one hand, executives know the importance of gaining "real-world" experience at an early age, but on the other, hiring direct family raises many concerns of favoritism and conflict of interest. In response, a recent trend has emerged: "internship swapping." The quid pro quo arrangement works something like this; "I'll hire your daughter for the summer at my law firm, if you give my son an internship at your accounting agency." Taken at face value, it appears to be an elegant solution as neither firm has a familial connection to the new hire. Still, some argue that this is just another way of protecting the special opportunities for the well-connected.
1. Should top executives be engaging in internship swapping?
2. What policies might a firm establish?
3. What is the moral objection, if any?