Making the Most of Internships & Your First Job

Your first job, whether it’s an internship or full-time entry-level role, is more than just a paycheck. It’s a building block for your career. We want to help guide you in taking full advantage of your early career experiences to set yourself up for long-term success. Keep reading to learn some of the best pieces of advice I have received over these past few months since starting my first corporate job post-graduation from managers and those who were previously in my position.

 

1. Build Relationships

This is one of the most important times to really network, show up, and make a name for yourself. Your coworkers, managers, or fellow interns are all potential connections for your future that you can turn to for a referral or letter of recommendation, if needed. Don't forget to connect with the people you meet and work with on LinkedIn!

Depending on the position you are starting, you are more likely to have less responsibilities early on in your career – so this is the time for you to build your brand. Schedule 1x1 conversations to network, meet, and build both personal and professional relationships with managers and those that are in the position you would be promoting into. Take any extra time to learn from those around you.

 

2. Learn Everything You Can

The perfect transition from the last point…learn as much as you can. This is the time to be a sponge and take in as much information, knowledge, and resources that you can. There is power in being curious and having an open mind because it not only shows that you care and are engaged, but you will learn SO much more by asking thoughtful questions.

 

3. Treat it Like a Real Job (Because it is!)

This one goes out to the girlies that are starting their summer internships. This internship has the potential to turn into a full-time job post graduation. Show up on time, practice professionalism, and go beyond what is expected of you. Trust me, you will be thanking yourself if you develop a strong work ethic early. 

 

4. Corporate Compliments

Record your wins! Start a google docs or spreadsheet with screenshots documenting all of your “wins.” This could be a shoutout you may have received in the team chat, key accomplishments, praise from your manager…anything to remind yourself that you are a girl boss. These could be valuable to have down for when the time comes for an interview to look back on and have talking points, or even to note down on documents like your resume or cover letter.

Think Big!

For a little closer, remember to always be reassessing your personal roadmap. Think beyond the position you are in…where do you want this to lead you? Every job you take will teach you something valuable – it could solidify that you want to continue on your path…or it could even highlight that you might want to pursue something different. However, the exciting part is that, even though it may be scary,  it is okay to try out different things. Our journey is rarely linear and our internships and first jobs will not be the end point, there will always be room to grow, continue to learn, or take on a new role.