Internships

If you are early in career, especially if you are a student, internships are a great option.  They are typically a limited duration paid job at a company where both the company and intern know that the role will come to an end.  They are very common during the summer break of a school year.  

Here's my take on internships from an intern's perspective:

• They are a great way to try something out without making a long-term commitment: the industry, the company and the role.  You may not know what you like.  I have seen young people try three different industries over three different summer breaks between college years.

• Think of an internship as an extended job interview.  It may turn into a full-time, permanent job later down the road.  You may find a lifelong mentor.

• They really help on a resume if you are just starting your career and/or finishing college.  This also gives you something to talk about during an interview.

• Don't worry about how long it is or how many hours a week you work.  It is about having an experience.  Two weeks can be meaningful.  Sometimes it is easier for the company to have a part-time and/or shorter duration.

• You should get paid.  Maybe minimum wage, but not zero.

• Internship job posting for summer internships are normally posted around March or April.  Use your network to find companies you want to intern at and reach out to their human resources department or anyone else you can get in touch with (example: find someone on LinkedIn).

Make sure you work at developing relationships at the company and that you keep in touch.  Sending an email sharing what you are up to every month or two may be all that is needed to maintain the relationship.  Example Email: "Hi Matthew.  I am checking in to give you an update on how my school year is progressing.  I am taking some interesting classes on XXX.  It reminded me of the work we did together last summer (insert specific example).  Thanks again for the time we worked together.  Looking forward to staying in touch."  If you are local, you could go out for a coffee.  Figure out simple ways to keep the relationship going and maintain your "warm" connections.

How To Learn More

• Dig into my other writings on the job search process on The Search page.

  • Better understand your own skills and where you will be successful at Roles.

  • Check out my writings on various industries and departments at the Industries page.