School's out! But that doesn't mean the work is over—it's intern season again! That means ambitious college students across the world are about to embark on a summer long journey in which they'll gain invaluable experience. Not only will each intern get their foot in the door but they’ll also have the opportunity to hone their skills, build their resumes, network with professionals, and increase their chances of landing a full-time position. Follow these helpful hints to make sure you're getting the most out of your internship and your future!!
1. Research Your Company and Position
The night before your start date you should refresh your memory and do some additional research on the organization's history and culture. Many supervisors will ask for your goals of working at that organization. Therefore you should know the positions in that department to refer to.
2. Network! Network! Network!
From the other interns to your co-workers, you'll want to network with your new colleagues. The more people who know you inside and outside the team, the more chances that somebody will wish to hire you. If people remember you, they will be willing to give you more advice and contacts when you'll be looking for your next internship or full-time job. Talking to as many professionals as you can in different areas will increase your financial knowledge, open up some potential interesting job ideas you hadn't thought about and prepare you for future interviews!
3. Ask Questions
Don't be afraid to ask questions and step outside your comfort zone. This shows that you're willing to learn and, have a genuine interest in the job and company. Try to challenge yourself by doing something you have never done before. This may be as simple as breaking out of your shell. Try and ask your boss or someone you admire in the company out to lunch to learn about their experience at the company and ask for any words of wisdom. This shows you as the intern who isn't afraid to ask questions and is willing to learn from a senior person.
4. Keep Track of Your Accomplishments
For the benefit of future job applications, immediately begin keeping track of specific facts and figures about your performance. While focused on the tasks at hand, it’s easy to not think much about all the work you’re doing. However, doing so will help if you want to take on more responsibility during the internship, and will also make it much easier to update resumes and portfolios.
5. Ask for feedback.
Some internship programs require a mid-term and final evaluation while some do not. Either way, it's important to ask for feedback on a regular basis. This feedback will help to uncover your strengths and what you need to improve on. These regular meetings can also help to develop relationships with supervisors.
6. Take Advantage of Opportunities
Treat the internship like a real job. If you want the employer to take you seriously, you need to take the job seriously. Remember, your work will have an impact on the organization. Your coworkers and bosses can also help you learn and develop skills for that specific industry. Ask them how they learned these and got to the place where they are today. These skills will enrich your professional portfolio making you more appealing to future employers.
7. Register for Credit!
Paid or not paid, many colleges and universities will offer programs where students can register their internships for credit! This is a great way to not only get experience but also class credit! However, be sure to check the deadlines of this registration with the Center for Student Success or an internship advisor! To find out more about Hartwick's Intern for Credit program go to: http://www.hartwick.edu/academics/student-services...
Wherever you may be interning this summer, best of luck!
