Internships provide students with career-related work experience and are an excellent interview process. Take advantage of this chance to market yourself and use these tips to progress through your job attachment.
Set a Personal Goal
What do you want to achieve during your internship? Perhaps you want to get a hands-on experience in a department so you can decide your area of specialisation. Maybe you want to find out more about a particular skill or area. Or you want to build your network. Having a goal gives you a sense of direction and purpose and attaining it results in a sense of accomplishment when your job attachment ends.
Bring Your Enthusiasm and Positive Attitude
It is a joy to work alongside someone who is excited about what he does and who focuses his energy toward completing his job. Even though you may be given some menial chores, carry out all your tasks with the same level of energy and professionalism. Successful interns bring with them a positive mentality and display a genuine interest in performing their role. Such enthusiasm is infectious and increases your likelihood of securing greater opportunities.
Avoid Office Politics
Pay attention to office power plays. Notice what kind of gossiping goes on and the different cliques that exist. Then avoid getting pulled into taking sides or criticising fellow workers. Do your work, get along nicely with everyone and maintain neutrality. If the culture is rife with backstabbing and rumour mongering, then that is a big clue as to whether the company or industry is the right one for you.
Go the Extra Mile
In addition to fulfilling your job duties, always strive to go above and beyond your employer’s expectations. You will be more likely to receive favourable appraisals and be considered for a full-time position if you exceed expectations. The opportunities are endless – giving additional assistance, taking on extra responsibilities, working a little harder or longer – and will bring you many benefits as a potential permanent hire.
Ask Questions and Learn
An internship is a learning experience for you. If you are unsure about something, ask someone. Tap into the knowledge of those around you and be uninhibited about seeking advice. Find out more about the business and the organisation and familiarise yourself with the long term outlook and prospects for personal and career growth. Remember that this interview process is a two-way street as you size up your many options.
Network, Network, Network
An internship is a great place to widen your contacts. Meet as many people as possible. Apart from your immediate supervisor and co-workers in the same section, interact with employees from other departments and build professional relationships with other managers in the company. Ask them questions and use every opportunity to display your skills and talents. Your network could well play a big part in your next career move.
Leave with Tangible Benefits
Stay in touch with your contacts, especially if you wish to work in the same organisation after graduation. Write thank you letters or notes to those who contributed to your learning and keep them updated on your future plans. Ask for a letter of recommendation from your supervisor and start a career portfolio containing your accomplishments, completed projects and performance feedback and bring it along when you go to job interviews for a definite advantage over your competitors.
While giving you a glimpse into the working world, your internship may well open many doors and create career opportunities. Apply these strategies to ensure your success and give yourself an edge.
