You spent months working on your resume, weeks interviewing, and days waiting for a response for that first work opportunity. Finally, you get a call from your dream company and they have offered you the internship position. After celebrating for a couple of minutes, you realize that you actually need to be prepared for your first ever job. You placed so much effort on obtaining the position, you never really thought about stepping into the door when you get to the office.
Here are five tips to better prepare yourself for that first internship opportunity. A survival guide, if you will.
Note, every company has a different approach to their internship program so utilize whatever tips feel most helpful and relevant to you.
Tip #1: Don’t Trust Imposter Syndrome
One of the first thoughts you might have before you start your position is the doubt that you won’t be able to keep up with the work and that you aren’t a good fit for the company. This is Imposter Syndrome, and it may bring you stress before you even start the position. A thing to keep in mind to fight those thoughts is that the company won’t choose just anyone for the offer. They have a dedicated team going through many applicants that have led to finally choosing you as the right fit for the job. So remember, you were chosen for a reason! Everyone has had the first day jitters before, so trust that your new coworkers will be happy to help.
Tip #2: Have Patience with Information Overload
During the first few days of training, the days will feel long. Trying to learn everyone’s position and name can be a lot on its own. On top of that, trying to get comfortable with computer basics, log-ins, and internal policies can be a lot to adjust to. You may feel like you need a dedicated day planner for all the information you’re learning. Don’t worry — it is inevitable that the first few days will feel overwhelming with everything there is to learn. That being said, give yourself time to adjust and grow into your new position; you will surprise yourself on how fast you will learn. Take a breath!
Tip #3: Ask for Help
While it may feel very scary at first approaching coworkers that have worked at the company for years, remember they were also in your shoes at some point. Ask for help if you don’t understand something; your coworkers won’t mind. In fact, they will appreciate you more for taking the initiative to ask questions and trying to understand the company and their position more. They are here to help and make this experience as meaningful as possible for you.
Tip #4: Manage your Time Wisely
Each internship has different levels of productivity within a week. There will be days where you only have one task to work on while other days you may be jumping from project to project. In addition, you will need to keep in mind any presentation and meetings that you have to attend. This can feel like a lot, but staying on top of organizing your day will help you in the long haul. A good strategy is to plan and organize ahead in your available free time. Create a calendar for deadlines, set up reminders for meetings, and make any small notes to yourself on things you might forget. The last thing you want is to be unable to find your documents when you have a meeting coming up in five minutes.
Tip #5: Give Feedback to your Mentor
Before your arrival to the company, your mentors pre-planned your internship and coordinated with other employees to develop detailed projects and rotations for you. They are like your older sibling. You’re able to be a bit more casual with them than a typical coworker which is great. You will never bother them. They are here to discuss what’s on your mind and address any comments or concerns. They have taken on this extra responsibility to ensure you are adjusted and have all the resources you might need along the way. It is critical that you develop a good relationship with them and give feedback. Whether this feedback is about things you noticed or ideas you’ve had, having these conversations can help future interns experience an improved program that has been changed by your feedback.
Overall, having a positive attitude and coming ready to work will not only reflect on you as an individual but enhance your impact on the company. The fact that you are gaining this experience so early on will provide industry connections later down the road. Who knows? This internship experience might enhance your next career move and open more doors!
At Digital Additive, we’re proud of our internship program and the amazing talent it attracts and fosters. Want to work with a team that values your growth and champions your strengths? Check out our open positions today.
