Securing an internship can be a super valuable experience for those transitioning from study to working life. The opportunity provides young workers with the chance to build skills, expand their resume as well as meet and work alongside those in their preferred industry. Increasingly, internships are the likeliest route to ongoing employment.
However, like you’ve probably heard many times before… you will get out of it exactly, what you put in. Making the most out of an internship requires more than just showing up. Here are a few tips, prepared by our most recent intern Jasmine Parotta, on how you can stand out and make a good impression during a short time.
Be punctual and prepared
There is much to be said about those who arrive 5 minutes early. It shows others that you are enthusiastic, well organised, and ready for the opportunity.
Take initiative
If you find yourself not knowing what to do, before immediately jumping to ask someone what you could be doing, take a moment to think and go through this list before asking your boss.
Check over any work you’ve done, is there anything you missed?
Check your tasks list, has there been any added?
Could you do some research or get prepared for an upcoming project/ task?
Ask around the office if anyone needs help with anything
Finally, if you’ve tried all the above, you should approach your boss and seek guidance.
Ask considered questions
While questions will definitely help you get ahead, it’s important to not go overboard. Remember that you are in a fully functioning work environment and everyone around you has their own workload to take care of. Save up your questions to ask all together, when there is time and space.
Get involved
Let the workplace and your new colleagues get to know you and what you’re about. Join in on conversations that catch your interest, start conversations and be yourself. Remember you were chosen for the internship for a reason.
Own any mistakes
Making mistakes is a part of life. It’s all part of the learning curve. The key is to be upfront and accept responsibility when things don’t go as planned. While this can be daunting, it shows leadership qualities and allows for a faster solution to be articulated.
Identify a mentor
Depending on the organisation you are interning with, you’ll most likely be assigned a mentor. This is someone who can guide you through your internship. You can count on them for feedback and learning opportunities.
Stay in touch
While not every internship will result in a job offer right away, it is good practice to stay in touch and emphasise your interest in the company and the work you did during the internship. This way, when an opportunity does open, you’ll be fresh in their minds.
Above all, begin your internship with a solid understanding that it is a learning opportunity. Absorb as much as possible and show up each day keen to learn. Build connections and don’t let them forget how incredible you are.
