How to ace your internship: part 2

By How To

Welcome to Day Two of Aliza Licht’s tips for making that all-important good impression during your work experience placement.

A global fashion communications executive and the voice of the highly popular @DKNY PR GIRL Twitter feed (boasting over a million followers), Aliza Licht’s new book Leave Your Mark will show you how to succeed at work and how to get that first break in your career.

1. Don’t gossip: Once you spend enough time in an office, you’ll start to realise that office politics are a lot like high school; word travels fast. Keep your mouth shut and don’t weigh in on issues that have nothing to do with you. That also goes for what you say outside the office. It’s a small world out there.

2. Yes, yes, yes and also yes: When it comes to work-related tasks, the only word you know is ‘yes.’ And not yes with an attitude, a sigh or an eye roll. Of course, if you’re ever asked to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable, by all means do not do it. You’ll know where to draw the line.

3. Don’t be a zombie: Silence can mistakenly come off as rudeness. If you see a colleague, say hello! If you have nothing to do, ask for an assignment. Be a self-starter. Be responsive to instructions.

4. Don’t go above heads: It’s natural to want time with the big boss, but your direct supervisor is the one you need to make happy. The hierarchy in a department is very important and people take it seriously.

5. Social media: It’s tempting to post on social media as the day goes on, but focusing on your job is a better idea. You definitely don’t want to give off the impression that you’re not taking work seriously. Don’t post about your internship! What happens in the office stays in the office. Read the company’s social media policy before posting anything.

6. Take advantage of the team: You have professionals at your fingertips, so don’t waste the opportunity to learn about your colleagues and find out how they got started. It’s also smart to ask them every once in a while for feedback on how you’re doing.

7. Leave graciously: Don’t forget to thank your supervisor for a wonderful experience. Make sure you thank everyone on the team, not just the most senior person. If you feel you deserve it, ask if she wouldn’t mind being a reference for you. In fact, you can ask anyone on the team that you know you have worked with. Keep a file of your references so that one day, when you need them, you have them at your fingertips. Because people often change jobs, try to get personal contact information as well. Of course you could try to connect on LinkedIn, but sometimes supervisors find this method a bit forward because you want the connection and they might not.