Dr Jane Hession reveals how a short stint can be make or break
Students embarking on an internship this summer must work on gleaning all they can from the placement. Macleay College business faculty head Dr Jane Hession says it can be a life-changing career move if interns go out of their way to be noticed.
1. Keep your ego in check
Hession says technology moguls Steve Jobs and Bill Gates both completed internships while film director Steven Spielberg made his first short film during a Universal Studios placement. "Internships aren't about providing free labour and getting exploited - when approached right, they are a step towards your ultimate career goal," she says.
2. Work hard and network
"This is your chance to stand out as an indispensable potential employee," she says. "Don't be discouraged if you already know the firm hasn't any paid positions available. If you're good enough, they'll make one."
3. Communicate
Identify what skills and experiences you hope to gain from the experience and share your list with your line manager. "Keep the lines of communication open and ask for feedback on your progress," Hession says. "Request to shadow those who are in roles of interest so you can learn first hand how they operate."
4. Manage your time
"So, you've been asked to get another round of coffees and separate the hangers in the cupboard - don't despair, don't complain and don't prolong the task," she says. "The quicker you get it done, the quicker you can free up your time to ask for more relevant tasks. If you show initiative, you'll gradually be fed more of the important tasks as they learn to trust your capabilities." If not, it may be worth finding another company that can provide more suitable tasks to your goals."
5. Talk about them
"Many successful business owners will have been interns themselves and everyone has their own opinions on what standard intern chores are," Hession says. "Ask them about their own experience to gauge their mindset. If they charter a personal rags-to-riches story then expect they may take this approach with you. Communciate your targets and decide on the next step that's best for you."
This article appeared in the 8 November 2014 edition of CareerOne, The Advertiser. www.careerone.com.au
