- Prepare thoroughly before your first day. Being well-prepared will boost your confidence during the internship. Prior to starting, familiarize yourself with the industry, its terminology, the company, and your supervisor. This will make you sound knowledgeable and self-assured.
- Dress professionally. Dressing and acting professionally not only leaves a positive impression, but it also demonstrates your commitment and can enhance your mindset.
- Approach the internship as a real job. To be taken seriously by the employer, treat the internship with the same level of seriousness. Regardless of the pay, interns should view their internship as a genuine job. Remember that your work has an impact on the organization. You are learning in a real-world environment, and your contributions (including mistakes) affect others.
- Keep a backup outfit handy. It’s always a good idea to have a spare tie or pair of heels at your desk for unexpected meetings or work events requiring a last-minute outfit change.
- Practice effective time management. Interns often have multiple responsibilities, so it’s crucial to stay organized, avoid taking on too much, and communicate if you are unable to complete a project by the deadline.
- Engage socially with caution. Since you are treating this position as a long-term job, take the time to get to know your colleagues. Building relationships with fellow interns and superiors is valuable, but be mindful of the personal information you share and how you conduct yourself in social settings.
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Be proactive in seeking knowledge and stepping out of your comfort zone. Asking questions demonstrates a willingness to learn and a genuine interest in the job and the company.
- Adapt and be flexible. People and organizations have different thinking and communication styles, as well as varying approaches to tasks. If you can adapt and be flexible, you will open yourself up to more opportunities.
- Network strategically. In addition to socializing, actively network with your colleagues. The more people who are aware of your skills and capabilities, the more support you will have when it comes time to transition the internship into a full-time job.
- Seek a mentor. Though it may feel intimidating, consider asking your boss or someone you admire in the company to have lunch with you. This allows you to learn from their experiences and gain valuable insights.
- Take initiative, but also accept guidance. Volunteer for tasks within reason. Employers appreciate interns who are eager to help, but be mindful of not overcommitting. It’s better to complete a few tasks well than to take on too much and not deliver satisfactory results. Remember, you are there to learn from experienced individuals, so ensure your daily tasks align with the organization’s priorities.
- Be respectful yet assertive. Expect to be pushed out of your comfort zone and assigned mundane tasks. However, if you feel that you are being taken advantage of, don’t hesitate to speak up.
- Challenge yourself. Seek opportunities to tackle unfamiliar tasks and learn from your coworkers and supervisors. Developing your industry-specific skills will enhance your professional portfolio and make you more attractive to future employers.
- Document your achievements. Start keeping track of specific facts and figures about your performance for future job applications.
- Request feedback. Since you may not have a formal review until the end of the internship, it’s important to seek feedback on a regular basis. This demonstrates your initiative and willingness to make necessary improvements in order to succeed.
http://www.businessinsider.com/15-things-interns-do-to-stand-out-2014-5