How to Make a Great First Impression at Your Internship
Embarking on an internship is a pivotal moment in your career journey. It’s your chance to gain real-world experience, develop key skills, and make meaningful connections in your field. But when it comes to making a strong first impression, the advice out there can feel a little too obvious.
To help you start your internship—and your career—on the right foot, we pulled together 6 tips that go beyond the basics and reflect what actually helps interns stand out.
1. Understand the Visual Culture of Your Workplace
Yes, dressing professionally matters. But what "professional" looks like can differ widely from one company to the next. Instead of defaulting to generic business casual, do some digging.
Check the company’s LinkedIn page, event photos, or even employee testimonials to get a sense of what people actually wear day to day. If you’re still unsure, opt for a clean, polished look that leans slightly formal your first week. (And don’t underestimate the power of looking put together on Zoom if you're remote!)
Pro tip: Even if you're virtual, consider what your video frame communicates. Your appearance, background, and lighting can still send a message.
2. Anticipate the Moments That Catch Interns Off Guard
Preparation goes beyond reading the company’s mission statement. It’s about heading off the unexpected.
Think about how you'll introduce yourself in meetings, what to say when someone asks about your career goals, or how to handle awkward silences. Bring a notepad to jot down processes, names, and feedback. Before your first day, make sure you have all your login credentials, know how to access the building (or Zoom link), and have a working setup if remote.
Pro tip: Have a go-to question ready for every intro meeting. It can help ease nerves and make you memorable.
3. Show Strategic Enthusiasm
A positive attitude goes a long way, but the real key is to match the tone of the team. Being observant will help you pick up on the unspoken norms.
If your team is energetic and collaborative, feel free to bring that same energy. If they lean more focused and heads-down, showing your enthusiasm through initiative and reliability may go further.
Pro tip: Being adaptable isn’t fake—it’s professional awareness. Read the room and bring the kind of energy that supports the team.
4. Learn Your Manager’s Communication Style Early On
Instead of trying to be a perfect communicator from day one, focus on understanding how your manager prefers to communicate. Do they like quick Slack updates? Do they expect a weekly email recap? Will they give you feedback in real time or in formal reviews?
Ask them directly how they prefer to receive updates and how often they want check-ins. That alone will show maturity and professionalism.
Pro tip: Over-communication is usually safer than under-communication—at least until you've built a strong rhythm.
5. Be Intentionally Present
Phones aren’t the issue. Distraction is.
Instead of simply hiding your phone, focus on being fully present. That means noticing details, following up on things people mention, and staying mentally engaged. People remember interns who are tuned in, ask thoughtful follow-ups, and show that they’re paying attention.
Pro tip: After meetings, send a quick thank-you or recap message to show you're tracking and taking initiative.
6. Know When to Step In and When to Step Back
Being a team player means more than just saying, "Let me know how I can help." It means observing what your team needs and offering support at the right time.
If a colleague looks overwhelmed, offer to assist with a specific task. But also know when to stay in your lane and listen. Interns who balance initiative with self-awareness make the best impressions.
Pro tip: Ask your manager, "Are there any ongoing projects I could shadow or support, even in a small way?"
Making a standout first impression is about more than just doing everything "right"—it's about being thoughtful, observant, and genuinely engaged. If you show up prepared, ask good questions, and adapt to your environment, you’ll already be ahead of the curve.
Still searching for the right internship? Create a free profile on RippleMatch to get matched with opportunities that align with your interests and background.
