
5 Tips for an intern
This summer, I worked as a Summer Analyst- Global Technology and Operation intern with a financial company in Jersey City. As my internship comes to an end, I have thought of five major tips that I think are important during any internship.
1. Persistence:
Persistence is probably the most valuable attribute to have during an internship. Your team members, who work full time will have very little to no time available for you. Expect people to ignore your questions or your requests. However, you have to remain persistent, in order to achieve what you want. If they don’t have time today, ask them tomorrow. Obviously, you have to be aware that you are not annoying them. However, be persistent on your pursuit for help and they will eventually make time for you. There have been times during my internship when I have literally messaged a team member every single day so I could clear my confusions with him. It took him 4 to 5 days to finally set aside some time for me. So, persistence is key for getting the help you need.
2. Communication
Communication is vital to develop relationships with people at work. There is nothing such as a stupid question. Every question is valid. If you are struggling with something or have a concern, you should talk to your manager/mentor. Though people might not have time for you right away, they will make time for you if you convey that you need to talk to them.
3. Time management
Time management is applicable for pretty much everything in life. You have limited amount of time to finish up a project, make a good impression on the team and hopefully secure another internship or a full time position at the company. Especially at the financial companies, no one really cares what time you get to office or what time you leave, unless you have a meeting . Though you have this flexibility, you should plan out your project well, such that you finish it on time. You should set weekly and monthly goals, such that you are on track.
4. Show Interest in the team/Fit into the team:
The managers in a team will access you, whether or not you are a right fir for the team. Every team has its own work culture and aura. If you show interests in getting to know your team members, it will be beneficial for you. You can figure out whether or not you fit into the team, which will prove useful when you need to decide if you want to join them back next year/next summer. Go for team lunches together. Make attempts to get to know the team members a little more. Pay attention to what you think your team mate values and talk about it. If they have kids, may be ask about how old they are, where they go to school. Asking some basic personal questions does not hurt- but usually helps build a personal relationship. However, there is a fine line between the professional and personal relationship, that you should always take heed of. Talking about myself, I initially showed interests in going for lunches and coffee together, and now I feel much more acquainted to my team members.
5. Networking
An internship provides you the opportunity to interact with the people who work there. You can ask people for lunches/coffee, and learn about their work and their decision to join the company. As a young intern, you should meet with previous interns who have joined the firm as full time employees. This will help you decide whether or now you want to come back as a full-time employee. You should also talk to people who have worked there for quite a while. It will help you understand more about the company and help you make decision about your future. Go into the employee directory and randomly ask people for coffee/lunch meet ups. This is a much better networking opportunity, than attending some career fair. I have randomly messaged people from work and met up with them. It really gives you a broad perspective about the company, projects done and help build a narrative about the company.