The internship experience is one of the most important pieces of the foundation you are laying for a successful career. Since the professional world is quite different from university life, it is important that you have an understanding of some of the differences. Use these tips and advice to help you make the most of your internship.
- First impressions are very important, don’t joke with it. It is important for you to dress, speak, write, and generally behave like a professional. Shake hands, make eye contact, smile, and be friendly and confident. Whatever impression you make on your first day will define how well you will enjoy your internship.
- Another tips and advice – clarify expectations about the internship: both the employers and yours. It is a good idea to agree upon your job responsibilities in writing. If you don’t clarify, don’t be sad when you’re asked to do work outside your responsibilities
- I will advise you to take advantage of the transition time at the beginning of your internship and ask lots of questions related to the task and job environment. You are not expected to know what is going on right away, but the faster you learn the ins and outs of daily life on the job, the better your job experience.
- Don’t ignore these tips- Meet regularly with your supervisor to ensure that both of your expectations are being met. This is a good way for you to get instant feedback on your performance and supports to keep you on track with current and future assignments.
- Be observant and ask questions about appropriate behaviour at the workplace. Different organizations have different expectations regarding employee behaviour and it is important that you learn about and conform to the corporate culture. This can include issues such as appropriate clothing, demeanour with customers, personal phone calls, and where to park your car. If you aren’t sure if it’s OK to eat the doughnuts in the company kitchen, ask first. When in doubt, err on the conservative side.
- Focus on your communication skills, both written and verbal. Proofread your written work carefully. When communicating with your co-workers choose a respectful, tactful, and professional language at all times. If co-worker goes informal with you, be informal.
- Show up to work on time, when you are expected. We are human and we break down. Call if you are going to be sick or late. Don’t be sick or late often. Choose your sick days with care; it will be noticed if you are not at work on important days.
- Establish good relationships with your co-workers. Be friendly, polite, helpful, and sensitive. It’s good to talk with your co-workers and get to know them but beware of gossiping and complaining. Be careful about bringing personal business to work, and be sure that what you do discuss is fit for public consumption.
- Be easy to work with. Accept assignments without complaint, ask for more work when assignments are completed, and turn out good quality work. Listen carefully to instructions and ask for clarification. Learn to work as a team; be respectful of input from other team members and practice the art of compromising.
- When you leave, be sure to ask your supervisor for a letter of recommendation and keep in touch so that you can call upon him/her later when you are in need of a reference. This will also help your supervisor keep you in mind when future opportunities arise.
- If you forget everything, remember these tips and advice for your internship- Don’t be a know-it-all. Every organization has a unique culture. As the new kid on the block, you have to earn the right to be heard. You may have an opportunity in the future to make suggestions for improvement, but don’t speak out too quickly. First, you must learn why the organization does things the way they do. Perhaps you can use this information to help a future company or at least help you select a company culture you will fit into best.
As seen on Fuzu