How to Become a Star Intern

Life as an intern isn’t a bed of roses – you’ll have to prove yourself despite your inexperience. Here are some tips on how you can shine during your internship!

You managed to sail through your interviews with your dream employer, and received a confirmation to join the company. Congratulations! Now, what can you do to be a star intern to increase your chances of getting hired upon graduation? Here’s how you can stand out.

1

Put in the hard work

Solve and minimise problems Take on challenges

Learn from your mistakes

As an intern, you need to be extra hardworking in completing your assignments, so prove to your superiors that you’re capable of the tasks assigned. Sometimes, this may require you to work overtime unpaid, or even at odd hours.

Value the opportunity to work handson in your chosen environment. Although an intern’s pay is usually meagre, the experience gained helps you learn a lot more about yourself professionally and puts you in better stead for future work stints, including a potential conversion to a full-time hire.

3

Initially, you’ll be faced with many unknowns, but don’t feel embarrassed about asking your colleagues or superiors about anything related to the job. That said, you should also be proactive enough to solve your problems on your own first before going to someone for help.

Clarify how to use a certain application, or raise any questions you may have regarding your duties. The key is to always ask your colleagues or your superiors if you’re unsure – two heads are better than one! Don’t linger in doubt or you may end up with errors. At the same time, although it’s fine to ask questions, too many of the same questions can also give a bad impression, so be sure to note it down as soon as possible.

If you encounter a roadblock in your work, you can come up with a few solutions to present to your boss or manager, who can help you decide on the best course of action.

2

If you’re keen to convert to a full-timer with your internship company, start by making sure there’s such a possibility in the first place. Once you get the confirmation, set out to accomplish all the tasks assigned to you and more.

Keep a lookout for areas where you can contribute and take the initiative to propose new assignments with your boss or manager. Ask for more challenging tasks if you’re up for it.

4

Mistakes are a part and parcel of life – especially when you’re starting out. As an intern, there’ll be mistakes that you are bound to make as compared to your colleagues who’ve been working for years.

Don’t worry if it happens – it’s okay to make mistakes so long as you’re willing to accept and learn from them. That alone already shows your responsibility, a crucial skill that’s valued in the workforce. So be brave enough to admit to your mistakes and move past them with a positive mindset.

5

Bond well with your team

No man is an island, especially in the workplace. As an intern, you’ll be embedded in a network of professional contacts while being the most junior, so make sure to learn something from everyone you meet. Develop good relationships with your colleagues so that you can work on projects together with efficiency and enjoyment. The ability to mingle and interact with people of different dynamics across a team is also key to your professional growth.

6

Seek feedback

As your internship progresses, you’ll want to know that you’re making progress and are on the right track. Asking for feedback is the easiest way to find out if you’re doing well in your role, and how else you can improve yourself professionally.

Consult your supervisor and colleagues, and listen to their guidance and advice. Weekly feedback sessions will help you monitor your progress and development, and will come in handy when you have to write a report to summarise your experience.

Summary

It should be obvious by now that a star intern is one who takes charge of their own learning, takes initiative in getting things done, and actively seeks to solve problems. This intern is also a valued contributor on the team, instead of someone who needs hand-holding.

Go the extra mile to prove yourself, and if you’re the right fit for the role, you might just get converted after your internship to a full-time hire!