Are you studying Human Resource Management or Industrial Psychology? Looking to start your career with practical experience? A Human Resources (HR) internship is the perfect way to step into the corporate world, gain real experience, and build your future in people management.
In this blog post, we’ll show you:
- ✅ What HR internships involve
- 🏢 Where to apply for HR internships in South Africa
- 💡 Tips to stand out and get hired
- 📩 A sample email for your application
📋 What Do HR Interns Do?
HR interns work closely with Human Resources teams and assist in:
- Recruitment and onboarding
- Payroll and employee records
- Training & development coordination
- Performance management support
- Labour law compliance and admin
- General office support in the HR department
It’s a great opportunity to apply theory in the real world, improve your communication skills, and learn the basics of organisational culture.
🏆 Top Companies Offering HR Internships in South Africa
Here are companies and organisations that regularly offer HR internships:
1. Department of Labour / DPSA Internships
- Duration: 12–24 months
- Location: Nationwide
- Apply via: www.dpsa.gov.za
2. Shoprite HR Internship Programme
- Fields: HR, Industrial Psychology, Labour Relations
- Apply via: www.shopriteholdings.co.za
3. Dis-Chem Pharmacies Internships
- Fields: HR Administration, Training, Payroll
- Apply via: www.dischem.co.za
4. Transnet Graduate Internships
- Location: Durban, Johannesburg, Cape Town
- Apply via: www.transnet.net
5. Coca-Cola Beverages SA (CCBSA) Internships
- Field: HR Graduate Development
- Apply via: www.cocacolasouthafrica.com
6. Private Hospitals (Netcare, Life, Mediclinic)
- HR interns often support recruitment and staff wellness in the healthcare sector.
7. Banks & Financial Institutions
FNB, Standard Bank, Absa, and Capitec often have graduate HR/People internships.
You can also find HR internships on:
- ✅ GoIntern.co.za
- ✅ PNet
- ✅ Careers24
📝 Application Tips: How to Get an HR Internship
1. Build a Professional CV
Highlight:
- Your HR qualification (Diploma, BCom HRM, NDip, etc.)
- Communication & organisational skills
- Any volunteer or admin experience
- Software knowledge (Excel, Sage, SAP, etc.)
2. Write a Tailored Cover Letter
Tell them:
- Why you’re passionate about HR
- What you’ve studied and learned
- How you can contribute to their HR team
🎯 Need help? Read: How to Write a Cover Letter for Internships
3. Follow Instructions Carefully
If they ask for documents:
- Certified ID & academic record
- Proof of qualification
- Updated CV
- Motivational letter
📌 Tip: Combine all your files into one PDF to make it easier for recruiters to review.
4. Be Early & Apply to Multiple Internships
Don’t wait until the last minute. Many HR internships are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Apply to:
- Government departments
- Corporates
- Hospitals
- Municipalities
- Retail & logistics companies
5. Prepare for the Interview
You may be asked:
- “Why HR?”
- “How do you handle conflict in a team?”
- “What is the role of HR in a company?”
- “What HR systems or policies are you familiar with?”
🧠 Read: Top Internship Interview Questions & How to Answer Them
📩 Sample Email to Apply for an HR Internship
Subject: Application for HR Internship – [Your Name]
pgsqlCopyEditDear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I hope you're well. I am writing to apply for the Human Resources Internship position at [Company Name], as advertised on [platform].
I hold a [Diploma/BCom] in Human Resource Management from [Your University], and I’m passionate about employee development and organisational culture. I have experience with admin work and strong communication skills, which I believe will allow me to support your HR team effectively.
Attached please find my CV, academic record, and supporting documents. I would be grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow as part of your team.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
🎯 Final Thoughts
HR internships are a great way to break into the world of people management and workplace culture. If you’re organized, a good communicator, and passionate about helping people thrive—HR is the right career path for you.
Start preparing your CV today, apply early, and take every opportunity to learn.
📚 More Resources for HR Interns
- How to Write a CV for Internships in South Africa
- How to Get an Internship Without Experience
- How to Follow Up After an Internship Interview
Need help applying for HR internships? Email us at 📧 info@gointern.co.za or browse the latest listings on GoIntern.co.za
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