Tips for a Successful Internship

As a Chief People Officer and Adjunct Professor of Northeastern University’s Graduate Human Resources program, I am often asked how to shine during a summer internship. Here are my top tips for standing out:

1.???? Know what you want to get out of it.

Clarity on what you are hoping to achieve will go a long way and allow you to focus on what matters the most. Perhaps you want a glimpse of what it is like to work in a certain industry, or you are trying to finalize your major. Talk to your manager so that together, you can mutually benefit.

2.???? Mingle and network!

Whether you are the life of a party or prefer to be an observer, internships are a fantastic opportunity to network. Don’t just stick with other interns - venture out into the halls and meet other people. Ask for internship advice and learn as much as you can about the company.

3.???? Do your best work every time.

No one expects you to do something perfectly the first time you attempt it. Honesty, diligent effort, and willingness to learn from mistakes goes a long way. You are being trusted with real projects – do your best work.

4.???? If you are unsure, ask.

You will probably find yourself unsure about how to do something 90% of the time. Anticipate that and get clarity on your manager's preference regarding question timing. Some may prefer you ask as the question occurs to you, others would rather that you compile your questions. This is your opportunity to practice balance and good judgment.

5.???? If you are underutilized, ask for more work.

Proactively ask for work if you have finished your assignment or are comfortable handling more complex work. Sometimes, managers are reluctant to assign a project because of the learning curve involved. Demonstrate that you can pick up concepts quickly and ask about any long-term projects that you can get involved in.

6.???? Ask for feedback.

You will not get better unless you receive feedback and suggestions for improvement. Accept feedback graciously, even if it is difficult to hear. If you are not receiving feedback, ask for it. Your manager will respect your desire to learn and improve.

Remember, your internship is an opportunity. Stay focused, be polite, be helpful, and have fun! If the company does not offer you a full-time position, inquire about potential openings. If the job is not what you hoped for, it is still a valuable learning experience.