Interning this summer? Follow these few steps to ensure success.
1. Be On Time
If you want to make a good impression, start with being on time. Treat your internship as a privilege. Depending on what company you are interning with, you probably beat out hundreds of candidates for a spot. Remember to be appreciative and show your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
2. Ask Questions
Interning is a learning experience and an opportunity to explore your career interests. If you just photocopy and file papers all day, you will not learn much. Get to know the people in the department you are interning with, ask them about their career path and job responsibilities. If time permits ask if you can shadow them in the workplace for a day. Taking advantage of this opportunity will allow you to enrich your experience beyond the usual intern tasks.
3. Volunteer For Projects And Assignments
As with most things, what you put into it is what you get out of it. Volunteer to help out with projects when you can. Even if you are only given small tasks, observe how things work, make suggestions, and ask questions.
4. Attend Information Sessions And Luncheons
A lot of companies set up information sessions and luncheons for interns throughout the summer. Attend all of them. You’ll have the opportunity to network, meet fellow interns, and learn about the different departments within the company. Remember networking is a key component in today’s job search.
5. Keep In Touch
Once your internship is over, keep in touch with the people you’ve worked with. Send emails and update them on your personal projects, workshops/conferences you’ve attended, and other internships you’re doing. This will keep them aware of your accomplishments and interest in the company. By doing this you will build professional relationships that could ultimately lead to a job after graduation.
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