5 Lessons You'll Learn Being an Intern
For many people getting to where you want to be career-wise usually starts at the bottom of the ladder. Being the littlest fish in the biggest pond and whilst you’re down there, you’re usually expected to pick up some basic, not-so-fancy, grunt work! Interning and work experience in an industry you are passionate about can be the greatest thing for your career. Showing that you can do the basics really well, work hard, and aren’t afraid to get your hands dirty almost stands out more on a resume than degrees and grades! Here are our top 5 lessons from an office full of experienced past-interns. Check them out!
Networking is so important and it starts here.
The best thing you can do when starting an internship is to build, build, and build connections! This can be digitally on LinkedIn – don’t be afraid to send connection requests to other interns you’re working with or your seniors. Otherwise in person is even better! When your boss mentions that she knows someone who knows someone who is in the industry, start a conversation and follow it through to start building relationships. Finding and nurturing relationships can also lead to some awesome mentors!
Professional communication.
Long gone are the days of kisses on the end of text messages, you’re in the business world now so it’s time to write like it! It can be difficult to get used to, but taking in the kind of language your co-workers use, in meetings and over emails will help you build your professional tone of voice.
Don’t expect a gold star for good work
When interning you have usually been hired to do the nitty-gritty jobs that other workers don’t have time to do (photocopying and coffee runs anyone?!) However if you’ve landed an awesome role that is keen to develop your skills you’ll of course be putting 100% effort into your work. Saying that, don’t expect praise all the time! If you do a good job, praise and recognition will come in the long run from a good boss, but not for every little task.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Nobody wants to seem like they don’t know what they’re doing, but staying silent is a no-no. Blindly saying yes to tasks can end up with you producing less-than-great work, not completing jobs, or unfortunately looking like you just don’t have the smarts or expertise. Ask questions! Always! A mentor or trainer would always rather explain at the start, than fix mistakes later.
Socialise
This may seem like a strange one, you’re at an internship to work hard… right? Correct, but you also want the feedback and recommendations that comes out to say that you’re a friendly person too! Saying yes to lunches, coffees and Friday night drinks will help you bond with your colleagues and let you get to know them on a more personal level, and you’ll be able to show off your star personality!
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Frequently asked questions
The biggest lessons tend to be practical rather than academic. Interns learn how to network and build genuine professional relationships, how to communicate in a workplace tone, that recognition is earned over time, and that doing the small jobs well opens bigger doors. These habits often matter more on a resume than grades alone.
How do I network effectively as an intern?Start with the people around you, including fellow interns and senior staff, and do not be afraid to connect on LinkedIn or strike up a conversation in person. Follow up when someone mentions a useful contact, and stay curious about what others do. Authentic relationships built early can become mentors and referees later in your career.
How should I communicate professionally in a new workplace?Pay attention to how your colleagues write and speak in meetings and emails, then mirror that tone. Keep messages clear, polite and free of casual habits like emojis or kisses at the end of texts. Reading the room and matching the workplace style helps you sound credible while you find your own professional voice.
Should I expect praise for every task as an intern?No, and adjusting that expectation early will serve you well. Interns are often hired for the routine jobs that free up other staff, so steady, reliable work is the standard rather than something rewarded each time. A good manager will recognise consistent effort over the longer term, so focus on building a reputation rather than chasing constant feedback.
What is a thoughtful gift to thank a mentor or team after an internship?A small gift at the end of an internship is a warm way to say thank you. A gourmet gift hamper works well because the whole team can share it, and it suits an office setting without being too personal. Hampers With Bite offers gourmet and corporate hampers with free personalised gift cards and fast Australia-wide delivery.
How do I make a good impression and stand out as an intern?Be punctual, take initiative on the unglamorous tasks, ask thoughtful questions and follow through on what you promise. Showing that you work hard and are easy to work with often leaves a stronger impression than technical brilliance alone. Many interns are remembered, and later hired or referred, because they were dependable and willing to learn.
Is it appropriate to give my boss or colleagues a gift when my internship ends?Yes, a modest farewell gift is a thoughtful gesture as long as it stays professional. A shared hamper of gourmet treats is ideal because it is generous without being too personal, and the whole team can enjoy it. Pair it with a short printed note thanking them for the opportunity and mentorship.