With a calendar that says “spring” and weather that says “the arctic”, we’ve seen some unusual outfit choices around the Arena District lately.
Half of our team is in T-shirts and jeans most days, so it takes a lot for a work outfit to strike us as “inappropriate” – which got me thinking about the many gems of outfits I’ve seen interns wear over the years and the advice I wish all interns would take. Lucky for me we have this blog where I can share all sorts of unsolicited advice!
If you’ve landed an internship for this summer, check out the tips below:
5. Don’t wear your “going out” gear to the office. Run late if that means you can run home to change from last night.
You don’t necessarily have to show up every day in a suit, but take cues from the people you work with about what’s appropriate. And in doubt, always dress up. As I once told an intern who mistook a shirt for a dress – “If you doubt it for even a second, put on something else.”
4. Don’t expect your supervisor to devote all of their time to you.
Internships are supposed to be mutually beneficial. Remember, though, that in addition to guiding you, your supervisor has a full-time job. Have a little patience and ask to schedule standing touch-bases so you can be sure you’re getting the feedback and direction you need.
3. Put on a smile, even when you don’t want to.
Nothing is quite as firing-worthy as an intern saying “This is the worst project ever.” We’re lucky enough to work in a field that is fun and challenging, but sometimes work is just work and things have to get done. Give your best all the time. People will see that you have a good attitude and work hard – which will make them want to include you on the exciting stuff.
2. Get to know people in the office other than your boss.
It’s cliché, but networking is so important for building your career. I’m incredibly awkward at big networking events, so I don’t go to them. For me, building a strong professional network has been about meeting people one-on-one. Talk to your boss about setting up time with other employees to learn about what they do – or just ask someone to go to lunch.
1. Time will fly – make the most of it.
Wherever you intern, take it as a learning experience and be committed to it. Internships are basically three-month job trials – a luxury you won’t have once you’re working full-time. Figure out what you do and don’t like, and you’ll be much more likely to find a job you love when graduation comes around.
