In today’s fast-changing world of work, your professional career will include many new positions. So for interns or trainees, it’s never too early to learn how to get any new job off to a strong start with a solid internship success plan.
Even if your internship has a structured program and a welcoming boss, you’ll have a better experience if you’ve prepped and have goals in mind. Besides the advice you hear everywhere, like “do your research” and “make a good first impression,” here are nine tips for creating your internship success plan:
It’s vital to understand your specific duties and to develop a sense of what your bosses expect. Initially, they may be vague about what they want from you. You should ask about your responsibilities and projects as well as the best way to report on your progress. However don’t count on clear, complete answers.
Be prepared to do some environmental inspection. Observe how a leader interacts with his/her direct reports, what he/she typically wants to know, and how he/she sends information up the line. Be ready to ask questions, and to volunteer when you see somebody needs a hand.
When professionals run into trouble in new roles, it’s typically not because they don’t have the technical skills. Often they fail, because they don’t establish working relationships with key people. As you begin, be methodical about reaching out to teammates, fellow interns and others with information to share. Introduce yourself and ask if you can help. Go out of your way to learn names and interact with people across the organization. You are there to learn from others.
When you meet your colleagues, ask questions and really listen to what everyone says. Resist the urge to talk about yourself and your past successes right off the bat. Cultivate mentors by asking for advice, then actually follow it and report back on the results.
One of the worst ways to start out is to create a trail of broken promises. Deliver on every commitment you make, no matter how tiny. For example, if you offer to make a phone call or send along information, do so immediately.
A simple way to demonstrate respect and enthusiasm is to meet all deadlines and show up on time for every meeting and appointment. This can be challenging when you’re operating in an unfamiliar environment. But it’s worth the extra effort.
It’s not unusual to experience a letdown soon after you start a job. Once you’re beyond the excitement of the fresh opportunity, you may realize not everything is as you expected. When it feels like the honeymoon is over, you’ll face an important choice. You can give in to your disappointment and waste your time. Or you can focus on the positive aspects of your situation, show people you remain upbeat, and keep moving toward your goals. For further advice about how to transform your negative thoughts into positive ones please read this article.
There’s no way around the intense upfront investment that may be required to kick off something new. This can be exhausting and isn’t the best way to live in the long term, so make sure not to go overboard and keep your boundaries in mind.
Adjusting to an unfamiliar assignment may produce moments of uncertainty that can lead to a high level of stress. Find strategies for managing anxiety and include a fitness program. The hours you spend keeping your cool and boosting your energy is an investment in your success.
Whenever people pause to explain something, say “thanks.” When they give you feedback, let them know you appreciate the guidance. Everyone around you may be frantically busy, so acknowledge their kindness if they take the time to help you learn.
At the end of the internship, of course you will write thank you notes or find a creative way to show your appreciation. Then keep strengthening your network. If a skill you develop here helps you down the road, write to your former mentors and let them know how much their support has meant.
Before an internship, give some thought to how you want to come across in your new assignment. Then jot down your internship success plan …and get the most of this opportunity!
By Akvile Varnelyt