第2集：How to Make the Most of Internships 如何最大化实习的效益

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Internships and How to Make the Most of Them

From our last episode, you will have noticed that we’ve placed a lot of emphasis on the importance of internships. Despite the downside of low paid or unpaid internships, these experiences are extremely important for the growth of skills that can’t be mastered at university. Internships are also a good way of preparing yourself for professional work environments and employers expectations.

First – where can you find an internship? There are many resources out there for jobseekers, including industry specfic job boards, job platforms like JingJobs.com, university careers centres and of course through asking personal connections. Large international firms tend to have structured summer or winter internship programs, which are tailored to university students and are a great way to understand the work expectations and structure of a large multinational corporation. Smaller boutique firms will offer more flexible internships, and opportunities to take intiative and gain practical work experience. However, smaller firms are often not as tightly managed or structured as larger companies, and therefore interns are expected to be willing to learn from multiple departments and take action instead of waiting for tasks to be given to them.

Now that you’ve got an internship lined up, how do you make the most of it? No matter how small or unimportant the tasks given to you are, make the most of that opportunity and earn your employers’ respect. By putting effort into every job you’re responsible for, you will inherently develop a good work ethic and show commitment to your internship.

The top 5 soft skills recruiters are looking for in entry level hires are: communication skills, positive attitude to work, being adaptable to change, being able to fit into company culture and teamwork skills. Keep in mind to develop these specific abilities during your time there. 45% of entry level hires are referred by employees, its imperative to not burn bridges at your internship in order to secure a possible permanent position in the future. At the very least, your performance should be worthy of a reference letter and reference contact from your boss.

Our last piece of advice is to network and develop professional connections. Many university students are hesitant to set up a LinkedIn profile due to their lack of employment history, but you could in fact even add in skills, education history and samples of your work. By forming connections with your colleagues and developing relationships, you will have a great support network in the future for career advancements and mentors.

For internship and entry level job postings, networking events and more career advice, visit JingJobs.com!