How to Make a Great First Impression at Your Internship
Embarking on an internship is an exciting and pivotal moment in your career journey. It provides an opportunity to gain valuable experience, develop new skills, and make those important connections in your field. Making a great first impression is crucial during this time, and can set the tone not only for your internship experience, but for your future as a professional in the industry.
To help you start your internship – and career — on the right foot, we’ve pulled together our top 6 pieces of advice for making a great first impression at work.
1. Dress Appropriately
The way you present yourself plays a significant role in how others will perceive you in a professional setting — and that includes your ability to dress appropriately for the job.
Every industry and company has its own norms when it comes to what employees wear to the office, but before you can figure that out by observing those around you (or asking ahead of time what the 'dress code' is), you’ll want to stick to some polished basics for the first week. If you are interning in the winter, you should consider a solid colored sweater, black pants, and clean sneakers or riding boots (while avoiding sweatshirts and snow hats). If your internship takes place in the summer, consider a short sleeve polo, a dress, and clean sneakers or nicer sandals (and avoid flip flops and jean shorts). If you’re having a hard time deciding what to wear, remember that it's always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. For virtual or hybrid internships, you can relax when it comes to your shoes and bottom half, but be sure that whatever you present on screen is equivalent to how you would like to be viewed as a professional in person.
2. Arrive Early and Prepared
Arriving early not only shows your commitment to your new company, but also allows you time to settle in, gather your thoughts, and be ready to start your tasks on time. Before your first day, familiarize yourself with the company's products/services, and any recent news or updates that might be relevant to your internship. You may also want to review any logistical information you’ve been provided for your program ahead of time, such as any door codes you may need to enter the building, or login info to set up an email account or sign into Zoom for a hybrid or virtual internship. This preparation shows your enthusiasm and eagerness to contribute. Bring a notepad and pen to take notes and jot down any important information during meetings or training sessions too.
3. Display a Positive Attitude
A positive attitude can work wonders in any professional environment. Show enthusiasm, be proactive, and maintain a friendly and approachable demeanor. Take the initiative to introduce yourself to colleagues, engage in conversations, and actively participate in team activities. Be open to feedback and demonstrate a willingness to learn and grow. Your positive energy will not only make you more enjoyable to work with, but will also leave a lasting impression on others. If you need some space to calm your nerves or shake something off, excuse yourself to use the restroom and take some time to calm yourself down in a private setting.
4. Communicate Effectively
Clear and effective communication is vital in any workplace. Pay attention to your verbal and written communication skills. Speak confidently, maintain eye contact, and listen actively during conversations. Use professional language and proper grammar in your written communications, including emails and reports. It might even be worth downloading a program that can help you improve your writing — such as Grammarly — so you can be sure your messages are error-free. Also be sure to ask questions when you need clarification and seek feedback to ensure that you are on the right track. Effective communication showcases your professionalism and ability to collaborate effectively with others.
5. Keep Your Phone Out of Sight
It can be tempting to check our phones for messages, notifications, or updates, but constantly using your phone during work hours can send a message of disengagement and lack of professionalism. Keeping your phone in your bag minimizes distractions and allows you to stay focused on your responsibilities. It also shows your colleagues and superiors that you prioritize your work and value their time. Plus, by keeping your phone out of sight, you make yourself more available and approachable for face-to-face interactions. This not only encourages better communication but also allows for more meaningful connections and collaboration with your colleagues.
6. Be a Team Player
Collaboration and teamwork are integral parts of any internship experience, and it's important that you demonstrate your willingness to work with others and be a valuable team player. You can do so by offering help when needed, taking initiative, and actively contributing to group projects. Show respect for your colleagues' opinions and ideas, and be open to different perspectives. By displaying strong teamwork skills, you not only contribute to a positive work environment, but also leave a lasting impression as someone who others would want to collaborate with.
Making a great first impression at your internship can set the stage for a successful and fulfilling experience. By dressing professionally, arriving early and prepared, displaying a positive attitude, communicating effectively, and being a team player, you will showcase your professionalism, enthusiasm, and dedication to your work. Remember, making a great first impression is not just about impressing others; it's about positioning yourself for growth, learning, and future opportunities. Embrace this valuable experience, be yourself, and seize the opportunity to make a positive impact during your internship.
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