If you are a current college student, it's time to start thinking about how to best invest your time during the summer break. It is tempting to lay on the beach all day or to spend time just hanging out with your friends, but with today's competitive job market, it is recommended that you start gaining real-life experience before graduation.
A summer internship is a great way to gain valuable insight in an industry that interests you, and it is never too early to begin making connections that could further your career.
As a staffing agency that conducts a lot of interviews, here are a few things to consider as your prepare for your summer internship.
Strong networking If the goal is to get your foot in the door, sometimes it can be more about who you know, rather than what you know. However, while getting that introduction is very important, it is then on you to shine and demonstrate to that "connection" that you are a rising prospect worthy of a shot at an internship, as the connection is only the first step in the marathon.
Professionalism A summer internship is an opportunity for you to gain real-world experience, and demonstrate to an employer that you could be an asset to their firm after you graduate. Companies take on an intern, not only to help with entry level work, but this is a great way to test potential new hires and evaluate how you can inject fresh perspectives and energy into their workforce. Make sure you put your best foot forward, be punctual, dress appropriately, read industry specific trade magazines so you can speak to the news, brownnose a little (just a little, don't over do this one), and earn the respect of your coworkers so they want to regularly have you around.
Ability to Deliver Talk is cheap and actions speak louder than words. Demonstrate your ability to deliver results and follow through on what is asked of you and you will earn the respect of your superiors. A lot of people may have the skills required for a summer internship, but the ones that will land a job will have proven their ability to follow through and deliver results.
Work hard One of the traits that employers value most when seeking the right candidate for a summer internship is their willingness to learn. At first you might not have all of the skills necessary, but you are there to learn on the job, but they are not looking to teach you a hard work ethic. Companies seek candidates that will go beyond what is required of them and are interested in gaining knowledge to excel at their jobs. Make sure to mention instances where you have gone beyond what was expected of you during an interview.
These are just a few tips for those looking to earn an internship this summer and if you are looking for a tech or finance job in Southern California, shoot us your resume and lets see if we have a fit.
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