Internships provide rich opportunities for young businesswomen to network, learn new skills and build professional portfolios. Many successful professionals completed various internships early in their careers.
I'm proud of my success at ServiceMaster in Chicago, but I'm even more proud that Step Up has provided me with an incredible opportunity to share what I learned from these early internships with other women.
One of the questions I hear a lot when I'm working with young women is, "how can I turn an internship into a job?" These are the seven steps I share with everyone who asks that question.
1. Network on the job
When it comes down to it, success is largely dependent on how involved you are with role models. During your high school and college years, that means seeking mentors from industries that interest you. Once you've landed an internship, it means networking on the job and meeting thought leaders who can share their insights and help you accomplish your goals.
2. Pour yourself into every task
No matter the job with which you're tasked, it's important to make the most of your internship. I completed internships where I was asked to do what seemed like simple clerical work. If the tasks you're assigned seem insignificant or menial, remember that even the littlest jobs can have a big impact on the overall success of an organization. It's also important to remember that there's no task too small to do well. Show your supervisors that you're determined to succeed by giving every job 100 percent of your effort.
3. Talk openly about your career goals
Talking about your career goals with your supervisors and coworkers is an essential part of on-the-job networking. Supervisors who are impressed with your job performance will remember what you've told them about your goals when they hear of openings at their organizations. This is especially advantageous if you're trying to land a job at an organization with a rigorous application process. I bypassed the lengthy hiring process at the City of Chicago because I had spoken candidly with supervisors about my career goals.
4. Don't be afraid to ask questions
When you encounter something that you don't know how to handle at your internship, ask questions. It's a great opportunity to learn new things and demonstrate that you're willing to go the extra mile to do the job right. Remember that no realistic business leader expects an intern to know everything. Asking questions isn't just okay, it's expected.
5. Create a positive, professional image
Dressing appropriately, showing up on time, shaking hands and making eye contact are essential if you want to build a professional image for yourself. It's important to support your coworkers too. When you see a fellow intern or employee who looks busy or overwhelmed, ask them how you can help them. Doing so makes a good impression on those around you and communicates that you're a true professional. Carry this professional image into networking opportunities outside your internship too.
6. Leverage social media
Social media provides incredible opportunities to network with contacts you meet during the course of your internship. Add coworkers and supervisors on LinkedIn to grow your professional network. Remember that leveraging social media also means keeping a close eye on what you post on your personal profiles. Avoid posting anything that might give potential employers a negative impression of you.
7. Honestly evaluate company match
Before you try to turn an internship into a job, take time to determine if the company's culture is a good fit for your personality and abilities. A good culture fit is essential to your long-term success at any job and will ensure that you can perform to the best of your abilities. If you're in the right place, both your coworkers and company leaders will be eager to help you grow and succeed.
It can also be helpful to think of an internship as a dress rehearsal for a job. You're learning the basic skills and competencies demanded by that company, and you're getting an opportunity to show off what you can do too. No matter whether the company is ultimately the right fit for you, giving your all at every internship helps ensure your future success.
