10 Ways To Beat The Stereotype And Stand Out During Your Internship

Since the introduction of the internship program by our government, we have seen many graduates benefit from it. Because of congestion, we have seen many graduates drown from this initiative, and end up being let go at the end of the stipulated duration. The most important attributes for an intern are enthusiasm, friendliness and willingness to get stuck into any task you’re given. Here are 10 top tips to ensure you’ll be remembered.

1. Do Your Research.

Knowing about the company’s background and recent news shows you’re prepared and genuinely interested. It will help if you’re able to answer any questions that are fired at you and if you’re in-the-know about all the goings on of your company you’ll be able to jump into conversations easily.

2. Embrace The Industry.

Show your interest in the way you present yourself. For example, if you’re working in the beauty industry, put an everyday spin on a makeup look you’ve seen in the press recently. This shows you can keep up to date with what’s in. The same applies if you’re working in fashion; try to incorporate a current trend into your outfit.

3. Do Something Different.

Do something that no one else is likely to have done, then if you come up in conversation you’ll be well remembered. This shows that you’re appreciative of the job you’ve been given and you’ve gone the extra mile to show it. It’s best to be remembered as ‘the one who bought the cakes’ or ‘the one who made the tea’ than to blend in among the many other interns who come and go frequently.

4. Treat The Internship Like A Real Job.

If you want the employer to take you seriously, you need to take the job seriously. To get the most of an internship, regardless of the pay, interns should treat their internship like they would any job. You need to remember that your work will have an impact on the organization.

5. Practice Good Time Management.

Interns have a lot on their plates, so it’s important to be organized, be careful not to take on too much, and to let someone know if you can’t complete a project by the deadline. Make sure you are one of the first people to arrive at work, and do not leave too early.

6. Ask Questions.

They say knowledge is power, so what better ways to empower yourself than asking relevant questions?Don’t be afraid to ask questions and step outside your comfort zone. This shows that you’re willing to learn and have a genuine interest in the job and company.

7. Network.

Aside from socializing, you’ll want to network with your new colleagues. Take the opportunity to build as many quality relationships in your internship as possible. The more colleagues know you and what your capable of, the more support you will have once it’s time to turn your internship into a full-time job.

8. Find A Mentor.

While it may seem intimidating, interns should ask their boss or someone they admire in the company out to lunch to learn about their experience at the company and ask for any words of wisdom. This shows the intern isn’t afraid to ask questions and is willing to learn from a senior person.

9. Challenge Yourself.

Try to challenge yourself by doing something you have never done before. Utilize your coworkers and bosses to learn and develop your industry skills. These skills will enrich your professional portfolio making you more appealing to future employers.

10. Ask For Feedback.

As an intern, you may not have a formal review until the end of the internship,  so it’s important to ask for feedback on a regular basis. This shows the employer you’re taking initiative and willing to make the changes necessary in order to succeed. This feedback will also start uncovering your strengths and what you need to improve on.