6 tips for a successful summer internship

Summer internship is a crucial part of every MBA programme. It is an ideal way to bridge the gap between industry requirements and academia.

An internship generally lasts from two-three months. If you play your cards right, an internship could be converted into a Pre-placement Offer (PPO) or a Pre-placement Interview (PPI).

These few months are not only about learning on job, but also getting an exposure of what happens out there in the real world. After this experience, an MBA candidate can head back to the class and incorporate the learnings in his management degree.

Here are six tips for a successful summer internship:

 

1. Get the basics right: What is project all about? What are you supposed to do? What is your role? When is the deliverable? What is the end-usage of the project?
Get a thorough grip on every detail of the project. Not only will you get a clear picture of what is expected from you, but also an overall outlook of the project. This will help you focus better.

 

2. Deliver: Now that you know what is expected of you, perform. Give your best to the assignment. Don’t be afraid to present honest but practical views. At the end of the day, a PPO/PPI is completely dependent on your performance in that short period of time.

 

3. Mentor: The third part important part of your internship is the ‘guide’ or ‘mentor’. Keep your guide posted about the developments and progress of the project at regular intervals either via mail or in-person. Maintain a rapport with the person from the onset of the project. This person is critical for both – a PPO /PPI and a long term corporate relationship if you get selected later on.

 

4. Right attitude: One of the most important things during these two-three months of internship is your attitude. It’s a good idea to adopt ‘Never say no’ policy when you are given responsibilities. Be sincere with your work. The corporate world has been recruiting interns even before you were born. They’ll know right away when you’re ‘faking it’ or showing off more than necessary. Also, don’t try to be too friendly or too distant. Respect your work and your colleagues. Even if you don’t get a PPO, these set of people may become important at a later stage in your career.

 

5. Know the field: Keep a track of all the latest development in your field or the project. Read all the latest related publications and online articles/journals. Develop your skill-sets according to the industry and company requirements. It will only serve to your advantage.

 

6. Stop counting: The idea of an internship is not to earn but to learn. Remember that always. So if you get a chance to intern with your dream firm or get a shot at your dream role, DO NOT think about the money/stipend. It doesn’t matter if others are getting paid more. It’s the right experience that matters in the long run.