Resources

Taking part in an internship is a fantastic way to gain experience for your CV. As well as this, it enables you to secure a reference letter for your future job applications and meet a number of useful contacts.

In order to receive this impressive referral, it is therefore crucial to make an everlasting impact during your internship. This brings us to the million dollar question. How can you really succeed in your internship?

We have compiled a list of the top tips for impressing your employers and colleagues, so, keep reading for our advice on how to dazzle your way to a great reference…

Arrive prepared
It’s a great idea to demonstrate how excited you are to get involved right away. Why not send an email to your new boss or recruiter and let them know how eager you are to get started. Try reaching out and asking if there is anything you can do to prepare in advance, or any initial tasks they want you to begin research on.

Taking the initiative to begin work will really impress your future employer. It is also wise to double check the dress code if you aren’t aware so you can arrive at your workplace giving the best impression to your fellow colleagues. When starting on your first day at the internship, try to be at least 10-15 minutes early, showing them how keen you are to start. After all, you wouldn’t be impressed at a worker turning up late to their first day!

Be proactive
During your initial few days, try to stay as proactive as possible. You will most likely receive a number of trainings and information sessions, so make sure to listen closely and pay attention. One of the most infuriating things as an employer is to notice your colleague isn’t making any notes while you are training them, so take a notepad and pen and keep notes.

Being proactive in your internship is all about expanding your horizons and getting involved with as much as you can. If you hear about an exciting new project, why not ask your manager if you can be a part of it? As a new recruit, you have the advantage of a fresh set of eyes and may even bring new ideas to the table…

Behave as a full time employee
We would recommend you to treat this job as though you are a full time employee. Acting as a permanent member of staff will help to gain you the respect that comes with it. Companies want to see their interns take a serious interest in the firm and not just complete the tasks given to them.

When you are given a task, it is important to take it seriously no matter how small or unimpressive it may seem. If you can show your employer you are comfortable handling the tasks they throw at you, you will be moving onto bigger things in no time!

Put forward ideas
Since you are new to the company, there is no doubt you will see a variety of changes you think could be made. When you find something that could be improved, try putting forward your solution or idea to your manager. This can seem daunting at first, but it could be highly useful to the firm and gain you a serious amount of respect.

It’s a good idea to find research to back up your idea, or really take time to think through the logistics of how it would work. As well as this, if they decide not to take your idea, try not to be too disheartened. There will be plenty of other opportunities for you to shine during your internship, so keep your head up and your time will come…

Written by Saffron Shergill at StudentJob UK.

A Bit About Our Contributor Student Job: Student Job brings you into direct contact with interesting companies that are looking for temporary, part-time or full-time employees. Whether you are looking for an internship to compliment your education or a graduate placement to start your career, we have a wide range of opportunities.