Monday, November 2, 2015

Advice for interns to be

Before starting my internship i had no idea what to expect. I had imagined running around in the city and getting coffee for co-workers are doing really mundane boring tasks. Hearing a co-worker ask another co-worker to make her a coffee i went over and asked if she wanted me to do it for her. She laughed and said it was really taboo to get the intern to make coffee.

The first day i jumped straight into it, i got to experience first hand the fast-paced industry of PR consultancy. Deadlines, expectations, time management, punctuality, professionalism and attention to detail. I had my own computer with a telephone, and even my own email account that had my name on it which i thought was really cool. (See below)




So for those are about to commence your internship and don't know what to expect, after a month of interning I’ve gathered a few bits of advice that might help you along…

  • The best way to get as much work as possible is to show your interest. If you ever hear someone talking about a client or event they’re involved with, ask them about it to show you’re curious. They’ll remember you’re interested and are more likely to involve you in work

  • If you’re given a job, make sure you understand the brief you’re given. It sucks to walk away with a job and feel totally confused… don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask people for work. There’s no such thing as a stupid question- the reason you’re here is to learn!

  • Always say yes to opportunities. Whether it’s to sit in on a meeting, go to an event or help out with any client. Saying yes will open up heaps of fantastic opportunities for you and your work.

  • Be realistic of your workload - don't give co-workers false expectations about completing a task if you know your time is already pre-occupied - time management

  • Relax and have fun! Go in with a positive attitude and leave with a positive attitude. This internship may land you a job offer.

Completing an Internship gets you industry ready. It gives you real life experience in the sector you have been studying. It puts theory into practice. Internships really are an invaluable experience and get you ready for the workforce.

Greta x

2 comments:

Unknown said...

Awesome advice Greta!
I agree, saying yes to opportunities and showing your interest are major keys to getting more tasks/work. As you said however, you do need to be mindful of your personal abilities and manage your time effectively. Additionally, asking questions is a big one. I think when we are initially in an unfamiliar environment at the start of our internship it may be a bit daunting, but the more you ask questions and learn about the company and its clients the more your confidence grows and the more you will get out of your placement.

Unknown said...

Hi Greta,

I could not fault this advice one bit! In fact I believe all future students should read it. The tips are awesome and as I've completed my internship these all related to me, at first I was nervous being in an office with people doing seemingly more important things but then I realised they took me in and therefor they were willing to help me with anything I needed and all I needed to do was ask!

It seems a shame to think how our nerves could stop us from getting the most of the experience! (also how great is it having your own e-mail? its the little things)

Cheers, Lewis.