What do you do if your R&D internship supervisor is unimpressed with your work?

1 Seek Feedback

Gathering feedback is the first step towards improvement. If your R&D internship supervisor seems unimpressed, ask for a meeting to discuss your performance. Approach the conversation with openness and a genuine desire to learn. Focus on understanding their perspective and the specific areas where they feel your work is lacking. Remember, feedback is not about personal criticism but about professional growth. Use this as an opportunity to set clear goals for your development.

2 Reflect Honestly

After receiving feedback, take time for self-reflection. Consider whether your approach aligns with the objectives of the R&D projects. Are you fully utilizing your skills and knowledge? Be honest with yourself about your work ethic and dedication. Sometimes, it's not just about the quality of work but also about the attitude and effort you bring to the table. Recognizing your shortcomings is essential before you can address them effectively.

4 Enhance Skills

In R&D, staying current with the latest technologies and methodologies is crucial. If your skills are lacking, actively seek out resources to enhance them. This could involve online courses, workshops, or even extra practice on your own time. Show initiative by learning new techniques relevant to your projects. Improving your technical competencies can have a significant impact on the quality of your work and can impress your supervisor.

5 Communicate Progress

Keep your supervisor informed about the steps you're taking to improve. Regular communication can show your commitment and progress. Don't wait for formal evaluations; instead, provide updates on what you've learned and how you've applied it to your work. This constant dialogue ensures that your efforts are recognized and that you receive ongoing guidance throughout your internship.

6 Embrace Challenges

Finally, view every challenge as a chance to grow. R&D is about exploring the unknown and solving complex problems. When faced with difficult tasks, don't shy away. Instead, use these opportunities to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and resilience. Showing that you can handle challenging situations and learn from them can significantly alter your supervisor's impression of your abilities.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?