Expecto patronum and other magic for turning an internship into a job
Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views or opinions of my employer
One of the best parts of mentoring security students is when you get a note to say they have landed an internship. It’s immensely rewarding to know that their career in security has started and I hopefully helped a little. It is exactly that though — a start of a career. There is a lot more work to do to turn an internship into a career. I’m hoping some of the tips, tricks and downright magic will ensure that the internship turns into a full time role and career.
“I think we’ve outgrown full-time education … Time to test our talents in the real world, d’you reckon?,” — Fred Weasley, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Be proactive
One of the challenges of having an intern join the team is keeping them busy on interesting and exciting work. Your hiring manager won’t have an understanding of what you are capable of, what you are interested in or how quickly you can turn work around.
“I think I’ll just go down and have some pudding and wait for it all to turn up — it always does in the end.” ― Luna Lovegood, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
The magic is therefore simply to tell them, rather than wait to be asked. If you want to find out more about a certain function in security, ask to spend some time with that team. Most importantly, never wait for someone to give you work to do — you should ask people for work to do or try find ways to help without being asked.
Be professional
This is probably a bit more Mary Poppins than Harry Potter, but is just as powerful! Being professional can be a big change for some, but the importance can not be emphasised enough, particularly as you progress in your career.
“Practically perfect in every way.” — Mary Poppins
It may mean different things to different people, but to me it means showing up on time, or when the inevitable happens having the professional courtesy to let people know. It means dressing appropriately for the work environment (which thankfully no longer means a suit and tie) and local customs (You don’t want to be the ignorant australia who wears brown shoes to Lloyd’s of London).
It also importantly includes personal hygiene — don’t overlook the importance of fresh breath and an effective deodorant/antiperspirant and aftershave, but don’t go overboard. People should be able to work in close proximity without wanting to run away from the overpowering fumes of either body odour or cologne.
Know the rules
Each workplace is different and has different attitudes and rules to dress, behaviour, smoking, flexible work hours, personal calls, personal browsing of the internet and more.
“Honestly, am I the only person who’s ever bothered to read Hogwarts: A History?” — Hermione Granter, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Don’t take it for granted that you can do what you did at school or at home. Most workplaces will have a pretty comprehensive code of conduct that will dictate the hard rules of what you can and can’t do. You should take the time to read it and don’t be afraid to ask if something is unclear.
Make connections
This is probably the most important bit of magic you can weave as an intern. You want to be trusted and liked — because simply put, people tend to want to keep people around that they like, so it will significantly increase your chances of turning the internship into a full time role. Most importantly, remember to treat everyone with respect and politeness — your next role may very well come from one of these connections or because of their feedback; regardless of their seniority.
“If you want to know what a man’s like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors, not his equals.” — Sirius Black, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Similarly showing that you are a team player and willing to help out the team will significantly increase the odds in your favour, so try to meet and interact with as many of the people in the security team (as well as other functions you interact) as you can. Ideally if possible try rotate teams as part of your internship so you can experience working for other teams.
Keep track of your successes
You’re going to get a ton of experience that you want to keep track of and remember for the next time you’re looking for a role or reviewing your performance. I’m sure you remember how hard it was to land a role when you didn’t have any experience, so don’t rely on your memory to recall everything you do during your internship, including any bouncing ferrets.
“Because I want to fix that in my memory for ever. Draco Malfoy, the amazing bouncing ferret…” — Ron Weasley, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Work on improving
Most importantly, get into the habit of asking for feedback and make the most of your 1-on-1 time with your manager. You shouldn’t be afraid to ask for feedback on what you can improve on and how your manager thinks you’re doing. Helping you improve is part of their role as your leader.
“Then again, maybe some of you have come to Hogwarts in possession of abilities so formidable that you feel confident enough to not pay attention!” — Professor Severus Snape, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Asking for feedback not only shows you’re interested in your development but also prompts them to actively think about the work that you’re doing and take notice.
So Good luck
Hopefully some of this magic helps you out on the long career journey ahead of you and helps you turn that internship into a permanent position.
“Yer a wizard Harry.” ― Hagrid, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
