It’s that time of the year when us students are profusely searching for internships and summer jobs. Once the position is secured, what comes next?
Much emphasis is placed on finding an internship or summer job, interviewing for it and being selected to participate. Most internships provide training for participants to equip them with the knowledge necessary to successfully complete the program.
With these tips, you can get a head start on impressing your new employer.
When participating in an internship, it is important to remain professional no matter what. An internship is like a long-term interview. The impression you give your employer can make you or break you. If you remain professional, pleasant and show that you are a thorough worker, you open the door for a possible permanent job after graduation, and even recommendations for other programs/jobs/positions/clubs you may apply for in the future.
What to Wear
Even as an intern, you are representing the company. There are many styles of dress you can mix and match while still looking professional.
Females
- Fingertip length dress/skirt. If you have to keep pulling it down, you probably shouldn’t wear it.
- Appropriate, non-revealing blouse. If you have to keep it up, you probably shouldn’t wear it.
- Blazers can serve as a fashionable, but also a professional addition to an outfit.
- Conservative pumps, conservative sandals or flats. NO high heels.
- Conservative, small, non-distracting pieces of jewelry. NO loud or costume jewelry.
- Neat hairstyles. This does not exclude natural hair.
- Do not wear strong fragrances. Do not wear any if you don’t have to.
- Do not wear overly excessive makeup.
- Clean, trimmed nails. When talking with your hands, you don’t want your nails to be a distraction
Males
- Fitted suit
- Button down shirt
- Blazers
- Dress pants
- Dress shoes or loafers
- Neat, groomed hairstyles. This does not exclude natural hair.
- Do not wear strong fragrances. Do not wear any if you don’t have to.
How to Address/Contact People
It is not enough to only look professional. Although you are only an intern, you should aim to leave a positive lasting impression. You can do this by always communicating in a professional manner.
- If you are going to be late, contact your supervisor beforehand. Call/leave a message AND email.
- When replying to an email, unless it is specified, make sure you don’t reply all.
- Be honest about your progress on projects and assignments.
- If you are still working on a project and receive another one from another co-worker, do make them aware in a respectful way that you are currently working on something. This does not mean tell them no. Usually, they will understand and/or extend the deadline. Try to complete each project.
- Ask for help if you need it.
- Be honest if you make a mistake, and ask how you can fix it.
- Sign off emails using: Best, Professional Regards or Sincerely
When companies hire interns, it is not just a job. It is equally an investment in the education of students. Internships provide mentorship and first-hand experience that not everyone receives. Make your opportunity a rewarding one by always putting your best, professional foot forward.
