An Intern’s Guide to Getting the CEO to Notice You

If you’re working as an intern this summer, I say: congratulations and good luck. Whether it’s your first or third internship, you’re in school or just graduated, an internship is an amazing way to get a foot into the working world and figure out what you want to do in life. (Related: My Best Career Advice to My Daughter)

You’re part of a growing corps of American workers. Almost 60 percent of American college graduates in 2017 said they had an internship while in school, up from 50 percent in 2007. Thanks to a tight job market, more of you are getting paid at your internship. (As it should be.)

At my company, hint, we have interns working in New York and San Francisco this summer, in departments ranging from e-commerce to social impact. We encourage them to help multiple teams across the company. That way, they get a deep and comprehensive idea of what hint does and what its purpose and values are.

Smart interns know that their time is limited and want to make the most of it. But they also don’t want to seem overeager or pushy. So, how can you get on the radar of the higher-ups at your summer gig—and further your career in the process—without looking like you’re sucking up? From a CEO’s perspective, here are a few ways to stand out.

1. Go above and beyond expectations.

Of course, your first priority is to execute what you’ve been assigned to do. Make sure you complete your tasks before anything else. But you should also let your manager know that when you have extra time, you’d love to hear about other ways that you can contribute to other teams. This will give you added visibility across the company as well as give you exposure to other aspects of the business. Bonus: You may find that your true passion is something entirely different than what you’re currently doing. (Related: My 4 Secrets to Hustling Without Burning Out)

You might be worried about appearing too eager or annoying to people in your effects to be helpful. Honestly, I wouldn’t be concerned as long as you’re asking, “How can I help?” rather than demanding, “Let me help.” Being a collaborator is not just about showing up; it’s about finding where you’re needed and offering to do whatever it takes. Demonstrate that you are a team player and helper.  

2. Find a champion.

At some companies, there’s a person in charge of the intern program. At smaller businesses, your primary interactions may be with your direct manager. Either way, focus on shining around this person rather than attempting to get on the radar of people who you think have influence within the company. Trust me: If you’re doing an amazing job, word will spread. You don’t have to constantly strive for visibility; if you’re succeeding, it reflects well on your boss or intern program manager. They’ll sing your praises plenty.

3. Know your goals and how to communicate them.

Here’s a little secret: People in the corporate world know that interns are frequently hired for roles that are totally different from what they end up doing. Don’t feel pressured to portray your internship as your dream gig or a direct path into a more senior version of that same role at that same company. When someone asks what you ultimately want to do, be honest. The key is to praise the opportunity. For example: “I’m loving the experience I’m getting here, but I eventually want to try living on the East Coast.” Or “This is an amazing experience for the role that I eventually hope to have at a smaller company.”

This is a great way to avoid looking like you’re only seeking approval. Plus, being upfront about your aspirations can open up new opportunities and connections. For instance, your company’s leadership may have ideas for people you should meet if you have particular interests or goals. They hired you, and they want to see you succeed, whether you end up working for them full-time or not.

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Let’s Connect! Find me on Twitter (@KaraGoldin), and DM me your burning business questions and/or comments.

Kara Goldin is the founder and CEO of San Francisco–based hint?, a healthy lifestyle brand that produces the leading unsweetened flavored water and a scented sunscreen spray that’s oxybenzone and paraben-free. Listen to her podcast, Unstoppable, where she interviews founders, entrepreneurs, and disruptors across various industries and keep up with her on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.