Being “the intern” doesn’t come with much power or allure. That said, internships are a fantastic way to earn professional experience that can be leveraged into a full-time position later on. An internship is a crucial learning opportunity that can be career-altering, so take on these pieces of career advice to make sure you're making the most of your internship.
1. Be patient
Working hard for little or no pay in a demanding position can be frustrating and at times a little demoralizing. While surrounded by people with more power and experience than you, remember that this internship is temporary and will lead to bigger and better things further down the road. Everyone around you had to pay their dues and this is your turn. What you learn from this work experience opportunity will provide a bigger reward later.
2. Be humble
Don’t get too big for your britches. Remember that as an intern, no job or duty is below you. That being said, it’s okay to demand more responsibilities, as long as you’re already getting done what’s expected of you. These perceived 'smaller tasks' will help to provide you with wider sets of soft transferable skills that will be beneficial in every career.
3. Network creatively and strategically
It’s not just what you know, it’s who you know. A major aspect of any internship should be making professional connections with co-workers and anybody you’re interacting with professionally. Whatever company outings, events, or activities exist, join them. Playing intramural sports or joining your team for lunch, for example, are great ways to establish these relationships. The more people in your professional network, the better. You'll have more people to turn to for career advice and there's always a chance they'll recommend you for another job in the future.
4. Work hard
The best way to prove yourself to your manager and co-workers is to work hard. Come in early and stay late if you need to to make sure you're getting all your work done promptly. Triple-check your work for mistakes. Sit in on meetings when you can. Take on extra responsibilities if you can handle it. All the hard work will prove that you’re someone worth hiring full-time in the future. Plus, the more you can do, the more you'll learn!
5. Dress for the job you want
It may sound silly, but dressing sharp makes you look like you know what you’re doing. How you dress at the office contributes to the overall impression of you at work - if you're dressed appropriately for the company, you'll be taken seriously as a professional. Look at how your managers are dressing and let that inspire your own look.
6. Let your passion and enthusiasm shine through
Be excited about what you’re working on. This is not the time to be too cool for school. Geek out and follow what ignites your passion. Your enthusiasm will catch the attention of others and should inspire you to work harder, learn, and do more. People want to work with others who are passionate about what they do - if you love your work, show it in your attitude, your discussions with your manager, and your tasks.
7. Be proactive
Once you’ve mastered your regular intern duties, it’s okay to look for more work challenges. If a co-worker is working on an interesting challenge, see how you can help or you can at least observe what they’re working on. Be curious about what other people are working on. Ask questions when you can and always listen carefully to the answers. You'll learn so much by observing your co-workers and taking on more work, and these will make you a more valuable addition to any team.