Convincing employer to hire J-1 intern

[mostmon 0]

Hi,

I have been to an interview with one employer and in contact by e-mail with an other as well who both seem very interested in hiring me as an intern but the process seems to fall due to the fact that I'm not an US citizen and have to get a J-1 intern visa. I'm not sure how educated they are about a visa like this as I'm sure they have not had an international intern before. How did you guys convince your employer to get an international intern or do you have any advice in general for this situation? Would it help to get a lawyer to go through the process? I already have a sponsorship organization which I will use when the DS-2019 is filled out.

Like I said the employers seem very interested and I am very competent in the area because of my background as they have told me as well. I will not be paid for the internship as this is the norm in my area (entertainment industry) but have saved up quite a lot and can manage for quite some time.

I'm also thinking would it be easier to get an O-1 visa and work under that as I might have a chance to get one through my artistic endeavors and accomplishments.

Thank you for the help!

[mostmon 0]

I'm sorry, I meant the DS-7002 form.