I began my internship with an integrated communications agency at the beginning of July and I've learned so much already.
1. Be present
It seems too obvious, but if your headspace isn't fully into the person speaking to you or in the project then you won't be successful. Block out distractions and make sure you are participating in the moment.
2. Come prepared
Carry a notebook and pen EVERYWHERE you go; you never know when someone could ask you to do something or when inspiration may hit. Always go to meetings over-prepared; carry a charger for your laptop, headphones, extra pens and a notepad. The moment your laptop or pen dies you become unproductive at the meeting, but not if you're prepared.
3. Ask questions, but be careful who you ask
Asking questions is the key to quality work; you want to deliver the best result for yourself, the client and your agency. Asking for clarification is necessary, but be careful you're not asking questions that have already been asked (remember that notebook? Write every weird detail in there.) Also, refrain from asking a question that could be answered on Google. If you can't find an answer, ask someone, but don't bother the boss or your supervisor, ask the account associate or another intern.
4. Pitch in
Hold the door, bring in snacks, offer to take notes or make the next pot of coffee. Kindness is timeless and your actions are memorable.
5. Speak up
Your ideas are just as valuable as the person sitting next to you. Why would you have been hired if the agency didn't think so? Share your input because you never know, that idea could land you a spot on another account.
6. Say "thank you"
Always. No matter what. Constructive criticism? Thank you. A compliment? Thank you. Did someone teach you a new lesson or strategy? Thank you.
7. Be honest
If you are unsure how a program or software works, don't be afraid to say that. It is better to learn from someone who is informed than to lie and try to figure it out on Google. If you feel like you've taken on too much, share that. Don't get crushed by your workload.
8. Plan your time
We use an awesome program that shows all of my to-dos for the day on my computer screen, however I still like to write mine on paper because seriously, what beats the satisfaction of crossing an item off a list? Utilize to-do lists and break them down by project and timeframe. This will help you stay on track and get everything done before you leave the office.
9. Show what you know
I take pride in my organizational skills so I have taken responsibility of owning a few parts of projects that fit that niche. For example, I showed I knew how to figure out logistics for driving routes for an event we were planning and then went further by finding an app that would forecast the traffic, weather and drive times for the night of the event.
10. Wake up and CRUSH IT
We have a saying in our office: "crush it." When you walk in the door at the beginning of the day, your attitude needs to be positive and your mindset needs to tell you to "crush it." No matter how small the task or how daunting the day may seem, go in with a crush it approach.
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