Congratulations, you did it! You made it through a very challenging semester. Now what?
For many students, finding a summer job, career-defining internship or even a well-paid career can be challenging, and the current job market does not make it any easier. Additionally, some students are enduring the nightmare of having their internship or a job offer revoked, while others are shifting to working remotely.
As an individual starting a career and with several months of experience as a remote student, here are my tips and tricks to make sure you are successful in your summer jobs and internships.
Tip 1: Utilize Your Network
Maybe your dream internship was canceled and you're now looking for work. There is a very well-known saying in business that is “your network is your net worth.” This idea applies more than ever. Utilize your network to find paid or unpaid opportunities to gain experience. Connect with your network using LinkedIn, friends, family or previous employers to see if they have any opportunities. It is okay if you get an unpaid position because you will be able to take the skills you learn and apply them to other positions in the future.
Tip 2: Follow-up is Key
Working remotely can be challenging if you have never done it before. It has a very different feeling than walking up to a person and asking a question, completing a project or building relationships. The best way to make sure you are successful while working remotely is to follow-up on every conversation. If someone sends an email, respond quickly. If you send an email to a co-worker and they do not respond, send an IM or ask to have a video meeting with them. The most successful workers are those who can get the work done at the highest quality and the fastest pace. Make sure your work is not blocked by someone else’s lack of follow up.
Tip 3: Go Beyond Your Comfort Zone
Starting a new internship or job is an exciting challenge. It's important to do whatever you can to stand out positively. During your internship, use a learning approach. Focus on doing whatever you can to learn new things about your industry, enhance your skills and gain leadership traits. Go big, but also make sure to get your work done. Try something new, make a friend, find a great mentor or just do something you have never done before.
Tip 4: Ask for Help
It is okay to ask for help. Many people are afraid of asking questions in a professional environment because they are afraid of looking unqualified or incompetent. Remember, you are still a student; you do not have 30 years of experience in your field. It's okay, the company understands. Additionally, asking some specific, useful and engaging questions shows you are interested in learning about the company and industry.
I hope these tips and tricks will help you be successful this summer. With hard work, perseverance and the right amount of action, you can have a very successful summer.
