The key to being a good intern is doing more than just showing up for work. These tactics show you how to put your best foot forward.
Be Prepared
Impressing a potential employer starts with the interview. Matete Lerutla, a human resources executive at Metropolitan, takes notice of interns who have researched the company. ‘Preparation for your time at the company requires more than a qualification,’ Matete says. The key is to understand what the company does, its values and culture. Visit its website and read up about the company and the industry. Share all work experience that you may have done before, such as holiday work and/or job shadowing. ‘Any work experience in the industry you are about to enter is extremely beneficial and will increase your chances of consideration,’ she says.
Take Initiative
Paballo Nkwe, a graduate recruitment lead at Student Village – a graduate development company – says interns should not always wait for a manager to tell them what to do. ‘Take initiative and show that you are hungry to learn and get things done,’ she says. Companies look for people who do not need constant input from seniors.
Teamwork
Paballo says an intern must have the ability to work within a team. Team projects also present a good opportunity to demonstrate leadership qualities. ‘People who take the reins tend to stand out as not being afraid to try and learn as well as grow in the process,’ she says.
Enthusiasm for learning
Employers like interns who are humble and willing to learn from co-workers to improve their skills. Paballo believes that if someone enjoys learning, they are likely to take this into the rest of their career.
Positive Attitude
According to Matete, an internship is not only an opportunity for students 6to get work exposure. It forms part of an organisation’s talent management strategy to fill vacancies. ‘Attitude matters more than technical skills. It’s much easier to develop skills than character,’ she says. Accepting feedback and performing tasks to the best of your ability will convey a can-do attitude that will improve your chances of securing a permanent position.
Give it your all
Matete points out that an internship is a real job; the only difference is that the person is appointed for a specific time period. The employer uses this time to assess if the intern is a good fit for the role as well as the organisational culture. ‘Sustain how you showed up during the interview, but most importantly, outperform your peers and work towards your vision every day,’ she says. Paballo also encourages interns to show that they are result-drive and serious about pursuing a career with the company. ‘Interns have to demonstrate that they are not just someone to fill the space, but have a clear future with the company.’ Observe this advice and you’re well on your way to securing your career.
Written by Wilma den Hartigh
Also see: How to provide ideas at work
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