My Internship Journey: Key Insights from the First Two Weeks at JB Hunt

Over the past two weeks since beginning my internship in Customer Experience with JB Hunt, I have gained valuable insights into the skills needed to enter a new job or internship, specifically in the transportation industry. JB Hunt Transport is a company that prides itself in investing in employees and providing a variety of opportunities for professional growth. Here are my four main takeaways from my first two weeks:

1. Be a Sponge

On my first day, I was advised to "be a sponge," which resonated with me as I aim to absorb as much knowledge as possible during these short eight weeks. In any new job, you don't learn by just sitting back and watching; it is crucial to ask questions and engage actively. Being eager to learn and understanding the reasons behind JB Hunt’s internal processes will not only add value to the company but also help me succeed in this role. In one of our initial meetings, the leadership team encouraged us to ask “why” questions, re-evaluate routine tasks, and discover more efficient methods. By understanding the "why" behind processes, interns can offer fresh perspectives and add significant value to the company.

2. Form Relationships

I've also learned the significance of forming relationships and making connections. Networking and fostering friendships within your team can make your job more enjoyable. Not only is it important to build strong relationships with coworkers, but JB Hunt distinguishes itself by creating long-lasting relationships with customers. In customer experience, JB Hunt’s leadership has emphasized that "people want to do business with people they like and trust," not just through impersonal emails. Despite the decline in face-to-face conversations today, building strong and lasting relationships with customers is crucial in the transportation industry. While competitors may lower their freight rates, JB Hunt attracts customers through its exceptional service and reliable commitments. JB Hunt's core principle is to foster trust both internally and externally within the company, which I have observed firsthand.

3. Be solution-Oriented

Being solutions-oriented is essential for creating value for customers, requiring a new way of thinking and the ability to push past obstacles. In customer experience at JB Hunt, we are the main point of contact for customers and the mediators between internal and external communications. Our daily tasks involve communicating with operations, sales, and pricing teams, as well as with customers, shippers, and receivers. JB Hunt has carried this out by offering tailored solutions to meet customer demands through its diverse service offerings, including Intermodal, Highway Brokerage, and Last-Mile Delivery. By consistently finding innovative solutions to complex challenges, JB Hunt has positioned itself as a leader in the transportation industry as they have demonstrated a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. Being solutions-oriented empowers you to think creatively and act proactively, ensuring that you deliver on your promises and exceed customer expectations.

4. Build Your Brand

Another key takeaway I have found is the importance of building your brand, which means deciding your purpose, goals, values, and what you stand for. This is the foundation for what you want to be remembered for, so it is important to make this your personal mission. When entering an internship or seeking full-time roles, it is essential to see if your personal mission statement aligns with the company's core values and beliefs. JB Hunt's upcoming CEO, Shelley Simpson, provided a professional perspective to the interns on building our brand. She encouraged us to lay a foundation in our early careers for how we want to be known within the business community. Shelley shared the same advice her father gave her when she started at JB Hunt: “Take this job as if it is your last job.” Create meaningful relationships, be eager to learn, maintain a positive attitude, and make an impact. This advice has most resonated with me, motivating me to give my best effort every day and fully take advantage of my brief time here as an intern.