Internship Season!!!

If you are an INTERN or about to be an INTERN, you should note the following:

Dress for Success (Even though you're a student, don't wear just any thing. Dress for the part you want in the office, not for the part you currently have!)

Be on Time (Trust me, your employer is noticing your timeliness)

Be organized (You don't want to be the one that can't find something, your job is to be on top of everything!)

Be the glue (You want to be needed, when you're not there you want your team to miss you. Learn how to be the glue that keeps the office and projects in order)

Save everything (I can't reiterate this enough. What's the point of having an awesome opportunity if you have nothing to show for it!)

Make copies (Keep a copy of important documents. This will serve as a valuable resource during future internships, jobs, opportunities, etc.)

Make a copy of inner office phone numbers (When you leave, make sure that you have garnered a list of every one's contact information)

Put everything in email (All business conversations and deals must be documented as proof. If there is no paper trail then there's no proof. Cover all your bases and reiterate everything via email - you will sound organized and knowledgeable)

Make the most of opportunity (Many times students complain they are bored, when their down time is the perfect opportunity to prove your creativity!)

Use time wisely (You only have a couple months to learn all that you can, make the best out of everyday. You should be a sponge soaking up knowledge, experiences, contacts, information and more!)

Be unforgettable (Make your team love you!)

Never burn bridges (It doesn't matter if you hated or loved your team, when you graduate you will need a launching career pad and your former employer can be a valuable resource!)

Get a couple letters of recommendation (Before you complete your internship, make sure you have management write you a letter describing your attitude, work ethic, etc.)

Build relationships with your team and the company (It is a good idea to extend your network beyond the immediate team you are working with. Network with the entire company, not just your team! It is crucial to leave a good impression with as many people as possible)

Collect business cards (Every time you meet someone, get their business card and put in a business card holder. DO NOT just lay them around!)

Send a good bye email (Never leave an internship without saying good bye. The email should include when you're last day is, what you learned, how instrumental the experience has been to you, etc.)

Give everyone you worked with a thank you note and/or small gift (Very critical to show your appreciation. Always try to leave on good note)