Making It Big Monday

Top 10 Tips for Interns

Organizations seek interns with a "go-getter" attitude. They want people doing internships in their company who have a strong work ethic and are dependable. Many Human Resource Departments state that they seek many of their full-time employees those who have previously interned with their organization and have these qualities. Following these tips will increase the likelihood that your internship will turn into a full-time job offer.

1. Meet and Greet with Everyone You Meet
Successful work relationships require excellent communication skills as well as a positive attitude. Make sure you take the initiative to introduce yourself and exhibit a positive and friendly attitude to everyone you meet; be it the janitor or the CEO.

2. Research
Make it a point to do research and learn all you can about the company and industry. You can also write directly to a company for information, or engage in informational interviews. Reading local newspapers and business publications is another way to find out more about an organization.

3. Set Personal Goals and Keep Yourself Busy
Set personal goals that you want to achieve during your internship and ask your supervisor for things to do. If you find that your work is done, ask for new projects or look to read company literature. Goal setting is especially important for interns to ensure that you gain the relevant skills employers are seek.

4. Read Professional Trade Journals & Magazines
Keep up on employer information and read what the professionals are reading. Are there new trends currently happening in the field? Internship success requires motivation and a true desire to learn more about the industry. Successful interns take the initiative to learn as much as possible.

5. Be Prepared to do Some Grunt Work
Take the smaller tasks in stride and keep your mind focused on the big picture. You may need to make some coffee or do some filing at some point. Remember there are menial tasks included in all jobs and pitching in and doing your share will establish better teamwork and goodwill among co-workers.

6. Ask Questions
Take advantage of your student status and ask questions about everything you don't understand. As an intern, employers do not expect you to know everything about the job or industry. Internships are a great learning experience. The more questions you ask the more you will learn about the job and how the industry operates.

7. Find a Mentor
Learn from those you admire and develop mentoring relationships you can continue long after your internship has ended. Professionals enjoy sharing their expertise and want to assist new professionals entering the field.

8. Be Professional
Maintain a professional image and avoid gossip and office politics. You must also maintain a positive and professional image both inside and outside the office.

9. Develop Professional Relationships
Communicate with supervisors and co-workers and keep yourself in the loop of office communications. Professional relationships are key in starting a successful career. Throughout your career a professional network will help you to learn of new opportunities.

10. Be Enthusiastic!
Show your enthusiasm and motivation and ask to be included in meetings and professional workshops. Enthusiastic employees tend to rub off on each other and have a positive impact on the organization as a whole.

By Penny Loretto, About.com Guide. To view the original article CLICK HERE