5 Ways To Get The Most Out of Your Internship
After giving a pitch on leading Generation Y to a group of interns today, I got to thinking, what advice would I give to interns (Other than to avoid owning a smug mug like the one to the right)? Internships can vary widely in quality and impact but, there are a few things interns can do to maximize their benefit from any internship. Here are the 5 best ways for interns to ensure they receive and contribute the most value possible:
1. Go to every organized event (and organize your own).
Benefit to you: An increased network that can help you get your job done, connections for future job opportunities, visibility
Benefit to the company: Productivity from an expanded network, Morale
2. Get a Mentor
Benefit to you: In-depth career and life advice, an advocate for you inside the company (and in circles of authority), possibly a lifelong advisor
Benefit to the company: Decreased support and training costs (as a mentor often teaches and relates better), a more cohesive workforce, better top talent as mentor get a better feel for each employee’s upward potential
3. Speak up! I see quite interns all the time but no one remembers then so, when prudent, pipe up!
Benefit to you: Visibility, Public Speaking Experience
Benefit to the company: Your two cents, a more confident employee
4. Take your positive feed back with you. In a polite manner, BEFORE your last day (or even week), ask for a recommendation on LinkedIn (more details in 6 Secrets to Successful Transitions). Be sure to follow up in person and connect with them well before you make the request.
Benefit to you: A portable recommendation you can reference anywhere (above and beyond your great resume), positive feedback
Benefit to the company: An external representation of the company’s ability to provide a positive internship and learning experience
5. Extend your internship into the school year. If you have the opportunity, or can make it for yourself, try to extend your internship into the Fall on a part time basis.
Benefit to you: In depth learning through a longer internship, better team relationships, a better chance at getting hired full time, $$ during school
Benefit to the company: A longer-term resource, project role continuity rather than a costly transition, a representative for their company on campus
Please share your tips for maximizing the benefits of an internship!
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Sometimes an internship isn’t the best fit. Even if you think the project you’re working on is destined for failure, remember that you’re generally there to add value to the team. Help your bosses get to the end of their finish line — you’ll be their hero and you’ll probably still learn valuable lessons along the way.
I agree with #3. It is important for interns to speak up because it will help them get remembered, but don’t try to sound like a know it all. I really dislike the interns who try sound like they know more than the staff.
Also, just because you are an intern doesn’t mean you can dress down. Still show up to your internship dressed for the office.
That is my little advice for interns.