Part 1: Making The Most Of Your Internship - Survival Guide for Duds
As most of you already know, I recently took on a digital internship at Faulhaber Communications.
A well known PR & Marketing Agency specializing in lifestyle brands across North America.
I’m going to be completely honest with you guys... When I first accepted a 9 to 5 position, I wasn’t very happy. I’m definitely not a 9-5 girl, still aren’t one and never will be.
While having no intention to stop my freelance work, I eventually hit a fork in the road. I could wait for companies to come to me or I could bring myself to them. Low and behold, I took a 3- month position with a company that had all the connections I could ask for... And let me tell you, it's been worth it!
Jodi Blk (blogger)
When signing up to be an intern, you can definitely be pushed around. Great experiences will arise from these positions, but be prepared to take some bitch work. You're the new guy and won't be there for long, so it's important to make your mark (AND don't forget garbage duty).
Not sure where to start? Within my first month I saw my digital knowledge skyrocket but I also had fun doing the work. Be sure to keep up with Double Tee's "Surviving an Internship for Duds" over the next 2 months & check out these tips to starting a solid foundation for your internship.
1. Take What You Want Out Of It
Don't be a pushover - it's important to make sure you're learning exactly what you should be. If you aren't trained in a specific area be persistent about it! As an intern you're there to gain experience and learn as much as possible for future positions. If there is another area you'd like to explore, just ask about it!
2.Ask Lots Of Questions
Like I said above, it's important to get the most out of your internship position. You never know where it can lead you and you don't know what you could be missing out on. Whether it be a question about the company, an assignment or something you want to do, never hesitate to ask! There is no such thing as a stupid question (just stupid answers).
3. Don’t Be Afraid Of The Boss
Kelly Deirdre from Globe & Mail (left)/ Christine Faulhaber (right)
I've heard so many people hesitate to ask their boss the simplest of things. Whether it be a general question or confusion on a project, employees would rather waste their valuable time than to ask a question. There is NOTHING to fear, you are as much a person as they are and have every right to speak to your boss as an equal. You are a part of a team not a hierarchy... And they are usually really nice people!
4. Take The Initiative, Speak Up
Photos by Chloe Sugar
Remember, you might not always get the most glamorous of tasks as an intern but that's why it's important to take the initiative and speak up. Be sure to volunteer for extra work you think may benefit you. Time is money and in this case you're probably not making any. Use this opportunity to make the most of your time, participate in projects that interest you and it'll pay off, I'm sure of it!
Until Next Time,
Double Tee's