4 ways to make the most of an internship opportunity

Having interned with Human Resources magazine for three months, Meghna Gupta puts down her experience of optimising one's time and learning during a media and events internship.

No experience, no job? That may have been true some years ago, but today entry-level candidates’ fresh perspective is exactly what some employers are looking for. Twenty-three percent of 2,200 CFOs polled recently said their firms are doing more entry-level hiring today than five years ago.

More than a quarter (30%) want them for their fresh ideas and innovative spirit, and 22% for the energy and enthusiasm they bring to their jobs.

An internship comes with its challenges and benefits, but at the end of they day you are there to learn as much as you can about the sector or field you’re entering.

Here are a few tips to maximise what you can get out of your internship:

1. Enter with goals in mind

Although you’re there to expand your knowledge and essentially learn a new set of skills, it is still important to go in with some idea on what you want to learn. For example, this could consist of simply jotting down a few specific targets you aim to achieve by the end of the internship period before starting.

2. Take your responsibilities seriously

This one sounds obvious, but it’s important to reiterate the fact that you’re there to learn as well as hopefully leave a positive impact behind. The only way to achieve this is to consider the internship like a real job, which means making sure to arrive promptly, meeting deadlines and committing to your responsibilities.

ALSO READ: 43% of employers want college recruits to be learning-agile

3. Ask questions!

You don’t have to stop at just fulfilling the job expectations, you can take it even further by asking questions and having a genuine want to learn the most you can about the work you’re doing. Your coworkers and mentors are invaluable resources and are probably sitting just a desk or two away. Whether you’re finding a task challenging, or you just want some feedback, don’t hesitate to reach out.

4. Get to know your coworkers

Related to the previous tip, although it can be intimidating at first, getting to know fellow interns and other colleagues is always a good idea. Socialising with those around you can make the long workdays seem to pass way faster, and even make you more excited about going to work. You’re not always going to have such an opportunity to meet some potentially very interesting and friendly people!

Photo / 123RF

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Human Resources magazine is hiring an editorial internPublished by Lighthouse Independent Media, Human Resources magazine, the regional HR publication with print and digital editions in Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong, is looking for an Editorial Intern for a one-three month period.

The job scope includes writing news stories and features, interviewing HR practitioners, managing newsletter dispatch, live reporting from conferences, and developing social media messaging.

Interested, or know someone who's a good match? Send in your CV and cover letter to aditis@humanresourcesonline.net.