Make the Most of Your Internship this Summer

If you are starting an internship soon, or already getting your feet wet at the office, here are some tips from QuintCareers.com for really taking advantage of your opportunities in the next couple of months:

• Set personal goals. Decide what you want to get out of this internship experience. Is it learning a new skill, deciding what you want to specialize in, or building your network? Whatever your goals are, have a plan to achieve them.
• Tackle all tasks with ENTHUSIASM! Sure, this may be hard sometimes when a task assigned to you seems menial, but the way in which you receive the assignment and complete it will be noticed by your supervisor.
• Learn as much as you can about the company. Attend company or industry meetings when possible, participate in training offerings, read company materials and ask questions.
• Take initiative. Employers really take notice of the people who dive into tough tasks or who are creative in solving difficult problems. While showing your knowledge also be mindful of your role and boundaries - make sure you work closely with your supervisor when presenting new ideas.

Internships are more than resume builders - they are platforms for you to grow as a professional and make connections with people who can help launch your future full-time career. Optimize your opportunity!

Remembering Basic Business Etiquette

As you get comfortable in your summer job or internship, it is important to remember to follow proper business protocol and etiquette even when the atmosphere is relaxed. The impression you make while working during this short time period does make a difference. The supervisor you report to or the colleague you share a space with may be a future reference for a full-time position. This short article by Eliza Browning from Inc. touches on five rules of business etiquette that really focus on being socially comfortable versus stodgy rule-following. This is a quick read – worth the valuable tips!