Lucy Wickett
I
n today’s business world, companies seem to be looking for one thing; experience. For those who have never strayed from their industries this is not a problem, but for those looking to switch professions or just starting out, lack of experience can severely hamper any job searches. Internships can offer an antidote to lack of experience or enhance a CV, as well as provide exposure to different areas or roles within a company. Unpaid placements have been on the receiving end of negative press as they can highlight the chasm between those that can afford to work for free, and
www.emico.co
One of the main perks of taking an internship is that it offers an opportunity to show off talents and commitment to potential employers. A ‘try before you buy’ situation can be attractive to an employer as an intern has already proven themselves before any contract is signed. It isn’t just young people who advance, businesses can learn a lot from young people too. By introducing new blood, they will gain a fresh insight and perspective into projects and latest trends. Taking a position abroad is also another valuable opportunity, bringing exposure to
THE VALUE OF INTERNSHIPS An interview by BITAx member Lucy Wickett about internships and the value of a placement those who can’t. However, employers do insist on experience, so we got feedback from some of our members who had worked in internships to see what they thought. One of the main benefits mentioned was selecting a career path. If you are struggling to decide what you want to do, an internship can help you try on different professions and different industries. “It can really help you get a different view on the job you are doing, and always looks good on your CV” says Maria, who interned at Silver Shemmings Ash LLP. Even if you already know what you want to do, these positions can help you select the employer you want to work for. Another benefit frequently mentioned, was that if their placement lead to a job offer, they already knew background information about the job, the company and the team, they weren’t turning up cold on the day without knowing anyone, or any of the day to day requirements of the office. Being encouraged to get out of your comfort zone is great for young people who may be caught in a rut or routine of their own; it can be problematic for young adults who are fresh out of college or university as they are surrounded by the same people, going to the same places and in the same town. Internships can offer an escape, exposing younger people to new people and opportunities. They also encourage you to network; this is a fantastic way to get your name out there and it is also great way to boost your confidence. Sometimes throwing yourself into uncomfortable situations like a networking event can make you more confident as you are almost forced to put yourself out there. 30
NETWORKS
representational cross-section of society. Also, with any internship, paid or otherwise, there is no guarantee of a job afterwards. Unpaid positions shouldn’t be common; legally they are only for students where the work forms part of further or higher education, for work experience for under 16s, for volunteers (which is where it can be murky) or work shadowing. Reality can be different. The general feel among our ex-interns is that they can offer a valuable foothold in different industries as well as that crucial experience that employers are always looking for. However, employers should actively work to make sure that they aren’t exploitative. Don’t suggest that internships can lead to paid work if they can’t and remember that interns want useful experience and a real taste of what the industry is like, not practice at making teas and coffee.
‘‘
COMMENT
An internship can really help you get a different view on the job you are doing, and always looks good on your CV. new cultures and improving language skills. An ex-intern at Central FX, Madubuko, says; “They are a great opportunity to gain real world experience, my internship helped me a lot when I interviewed for a role in the United States.” This extra knowledge and international experience will amplify your marketability and makes you more attractive to potential employers. Unpaid internships occur often in creative sectors like fashion, media and music; there are two sides to this coin. On one side it offers young people the chance to experience being managed, learn the importance of time management within the office and develop strong people skills. For those with little to no experience this can be a lifeline to their desired industry and the opportunity to showcase their talents. On the other hand, unpaid positions can be exploitative and by their nature will only benefit those that can afford to live with zero income for their work placement; whether it be two weeks or six months. This means that those who can afford to live off nothing gain entry; so, some industries that heavily use internships, especially unpaid ones, end up with a non-
