An internship is an excellent opportunity to try out a career field, build skills, and potentially become employed at a company full-time after graduation. Here’s how to make the most of your internship experience and keep the focus on your whole career, not just an initial job placement.
Set goals
It is always a good idea to meet with your superior at the start of your internship to learn what their expectations are for you. If they doesn’t set a meeting with you, you should ask for some time to meet. What are you expected to accomplish each day? Every week? . At last, keep in mind what your own goals are for your internship and what you would like to learn. Discuss your interests with your supervisor and ask if there are opportunities to get involved in those areas.
Ask for – and listen to- feedback
Make sure to ask for feedback from your superior to know if you are on the right track. Ask them what are your strengths? What could you improve? Listen to what they have to say and take their advice. Make any changes they suggest Not only will this improve your job performance, it will show that you can listen to and accept constructive criticism.
Do your absolute best every time, all the time.
It’s important to remember that your work as an intern affects not only you, but the entire organization you represent. Take everything you do seriously, even the tasks that seem minor. Doing your best every time shows that you take your position seriously and that you can be counted on to always do a good job.
Be involved.
Even if something is not in your specific job description as an intern, sign yourself up. Volunteer to do odd jobs, help out with projects and ask to attend meetings. If someone offers you an opportunity to get involved in something outside of your usual job, always say yes. You never know when these opportunities may lead to something big.
Stay organized and Keep track of your work.
Take notes during all meetings and keep to-do lists of tasks and deadlines. Keep your work space neat so that your work is organized and out of the way when you are not around. Everything you create, contribute to or work on during your internship could be useful in the future. Keep copies of your work to add to your portfolio Or resume, show future employers what you’re capable of and for your own personal growth as something to be proud of.
Be professional and Dress Properly
Be mindful of how you present yourself to your co-workers and supervisor.
Observe or ask what is the appropriate attire for your workplace? Your appearance is a big part of first impressions and dressing the part will go a long way in your success. What is appropriate email etiquette for the person you are addressing? If you have a concern or there is an issue you are not sure how to handle, who is the most appropriate person to talk to? And don’t forget the basics of common courtesy – be punctual, say thank you, follow up and follow through.
Starting Your Career Today!
An internship is more than just another task to check off on your way to a college degree. When you make the most of your internship opportunity, you’re taking the first step toward a meaningful and rewarding career.
Whether you are preparing to enter the it job market for the first time, a returning worker, or an experienced professional seeking to switch to an IT career, we are here to guide you toward reaching your professional goals. We can assist you in finding the right opportunities that perfectly fit your qualifications and experience.
Stand out from the crowd with a certificate that validates your IT skills and work experience.
Completing Techway Placement’s internship, mentorship and work experience program will earn you a certificate that sets seal on the skills and work experience you have acquired. Use it to support your application documents and show potential employers that you went the extra mile to enhance your employability and that you are a good choice for the role they are hiring for.