Here's how you can effectively communicate with senior stakeholders during an internship.

One thing I proved to be helpful is just to do your work responsibly each day. You work by demonstrating your value and likewise giving your best by adding value to the organization. Don't pretend you know everything but be vulnerable to ask questions especially when in doubts. Engaging your senior stakeholders are part of your professional dealing and communication in the organization. Maximize that rare opportunity to engage them by just showing respect and contributing your share of your tasks that you're expected to do.

I agree that preparations really matters when meeting your senior stakeholders. The chance to meet them is rare and yet can be a valuable opportunity for interactions. That is why, you need to face them prepared and confident to provide them the information they need especially those that really matters to the organization. Somehow, you need to articulate you ideas and hear out your perspective on relevant topics affecting the organization. You'll never know that your ideas may be of help and value in the decisions-making process of your senior stakeholders. Speak the truth and facts with wisdom.

Passion and commitment are I believe important values for succes, and become more intentional in the things you do. Taking the initiative is another thing. It's more than being intentional but to be more proactive in taking an extra mile towards a level of significance, not just to be noticed by your senior stakeholders but to be relevant in your work place. Just do your job responsibly and doing it to make the difference. Perhaps, to make a point, as I've been advocating, 'do all everything to honor and for the glory of God.'

We all can learn and grow from others. So take both negative and positive feedbacks as an opportunity to improve your areas of weaknesses. Be teachable and be willing to learn new insights, and continue to develop your skills as you grow in the organization. Don't stop to learn new things even from the experience of others. Feedbacks from your senior stakeholders can be a valuable help in your journey towards your professional growth. Take it positively and grow responsibly!

Internship is a phase in which the relationship is nascent. There is no reference point, no base line of measurement of ethics or work. Here what is important is the clarity of thought process and the articulation of it. What you are thinking also needs to understood by the stakeholders. Once a plan is determined, follow it to the 'T' and with proper dashboards and governance so each stakeholder is aware of what's being executed and its status.

It's always good to have a proactive approach. Having in depth knowledge of who your senior stakeholders are will provide you with insight on what to expect from them, and thus be able to be one step ahead at all times through carefully-thought proactive actions and preparations. Surprise them with answers they don't expect you to have. This will show initiative. Be ready for anything and everything. Master your project to the 'T' in such a way that you won't be phased by the unexpected.