So you’ve landed your dream internship for the summer. Okay, maybe not your dream internship, but at least you’re headed in the right direction! Before you jump into the work world on your first day, there are some things you should keep in mind as a working girl. Having been an intern for three different companies, I’ve had my fair share of positive and negative experiences. However, I learned valuable lessons from each experience and, as a result, have some insider tips that I can pass down to future interns:
1. What about lunch?
Trust me, this is important. After working at an office desk all day, you will cherish the time when your lunch break finally rolls around. Ask your supervisor how much time you are allowed to eat lunch, and then decide whether or not you want to pack a lunch or if you would rather go grab something nearby during your break. I would suggest Google searching restaurants to see what is quick, relatively inexpensive and close to your work site prior to making this decision. If you have an iPhone, apps such as Yelp! And UrbanSpoon can come in handy.
2. Bring Headphones (if allowed!)
As an intern, chances are that you’ll be stuck doing some form of work that requires little to no brain power, such as entering information into a spreadsheet database, but that needs to get done. When these situations arise, it really helps pass the time if you have some good music to keep you motivated and sane. However, you may get stuck with a boss who would prefer that you don’t listen to music while working. This is another issue you should address before your first day. Don’t be nervous to ask! Better to be safe than sorry. If your boss approves of you listening to music, download new music and create playlists to keep your energy up during those dry periods.
3. Be Smart about Internet Usage
While it is typically okay to read the news online or do some minor web searching during your breaks as an intern, do not abuse this privilege. The last thing you want is for your boss to catch you online shopping or Facebook stalking on the job. So be smart about when and what you are using the Internet for. Also, there is a chance that your boss could be the type who checks the browsing history of interns. I would highly recommend clearing your history before you take off for the day if you think there is even the slightest possibility that a Web site you visited could be frowned upon. Remember, you want your boss to have nothing but good things to say about you when you need recommendations later on!
4. Make Connections
Get to know your supervisor and other employees on a personal level. This will make your overall work atmosphere more comfortable and laid-back and will showcase your great personality and social skills. Many employers these days are looking to hire those who can communicate with various types of people. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation about family life, entertainment or sports. If you and your supervisor hit it off, you will be guaranteed impressive references that you can rely on.
Sources:
http://www.wellheeledblog.com/2010/04/19/bringing-lunch-work/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/incomedream/5549518825/sizes/m/in/photostream/