A summer internship is usually an uncomplicated gig.

We answer phones, network a bit and learn the ropes as we gain experience to help our careers. If we work hard, ideally we’re recognized for our effort and gain a stellar recommendation. Do really well, we may even get a job offer.

It wasn’t such smooth sailing for an intern at the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), recently. What happened is a lesson for all interns and the people who manage them.

By now, you may have seen the video from KTVU in San Francisco, in which the anchorwoman mistakenly reads the insensitive “names” of the pilots aboard Asiana flight 214. The plane crashed while attempting to land in San Francisco, killing three people and injuring 181.

Sum Ting Wong

Wi Tu Lo

HO LEE FUK? Really???

An intern at the NTSB reportedly confirmed the pilots’ names, a Boeing-sized mistake that prompted an apology from KTVU and the NTSB, which had this to say:

“Earlier today, in response to an inquiry from a media outlet, a summer intern acted outside the scope of his authority when he erroneously confirmed the names of the flight crew on the aircraft.”

“Outside the scope of his authority.”

Really?

Now, a once inconspicuous intern has made a mockery of the media and our government, or at least a high-profile department within our government. Who needs Jon Stewart? This stuff writes itself!

What the Asiana Airlines Debacle Means for Interns…

As an intern, you have no authority. You aren’t paid to make decisions or interact with the public/media unless you first ask the powers-that-be.

When in doubt, check with your boss. There are no penalties for “dumb” questions. As we have seen, there are huge consequences for foolish mistakes.

By asking a lot of questions, you help yourself in two ways:

Ensure you avoid any costly decisions (ex: “Wi Tu Lo”) Prove to the office staff you are responsible and mature

…And for The Managers of the Newbies

Interns need strict guidelines. Rule No.1, in all cases at every company:

Don’t let the interns talk to the media!

Certainly, the NTSB has media relations folks who are paid to provide KTVU and every other newsroom with relevant updates on the crash. Interns can help dig up info but shouldn’t have direct communication with the press — unless directed to do so.

Oh, one more thing: Bosses love to stick interns on social media duty as if it’s the lowest rung on the corporate ladder. “Hey, Kid. Can you handle our tweetering or whatever it’s called?”

The intern at the helm of a company’s social media account (or maybe the one answering the phone?) has more power than the CEO. With one errant tweet or Facebook status, a college freshman can cripple the business or damage its reputation.

If you’re in charge of interns, set parameters and don’t forget to tell them: “If anything looks fishy to you, bring it to me immediately.” And whatever you do, tell the intern not to answer calls by KTVU… because they apparently don’t care who provides confirmations (nor do they proofread before saying something really stupid, live).

Might be hard to top this one… but what’s your summer internship mistake story? Share below!

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For this post, YouTern thanks our friends at News to Live By!

About the Author: Danny Rubin is a PR professional at Rubin Communications Group in Virginia Beach, VA. A former TV reporter, Danny also writes News To Live By (NTLB), a blog for Millennials that highlights the career advice and leadership lessons in the day’s top stories. His NTLB columns are featured on several blogs and news sites, including Huffington Post, Lifehacker, PolicyMic and Brazen Life. Danny also contributes to Parade Magazine. Follow the blog on Twitter!

Image courtesy of GamesfromWithin.com. Thank you!