Quintessential Careers Press: The Quintessential Guide to Finding and Maximizing Internships Chapter 6: Turning Your Internship Into a Job Page 38 Be a team player. Berry points out that some employers, such as investment banking firms, host many interns simultaneously. Those numbers, she says, should not inspire competition because there are usually plenty of full-time opportunities to go around for successful interns. Instead, teamwork should be among an intern's major strategies since most employers value their workers' ability to perform in collaborative relationships. Seek input and feedback from supervisors and co-workers during your internship so you know how to improve as you go along. Show those you work with that you want to be the best you can be. Don't be shy about asking about permanent job opportunities. Your employer won't know that you're interested in a job unless you ask. Also be vigilant for opportunities to create a position. Look for employer needs that aren't currently being met and consider proposing a job to meet those needs. Network with co-workers at your internship -- both during and outside of working hours. Get to know as many of the people you work with as you can, and socialize with them outside work, as well. Join the company softball team. Attend the company picnic or party. Everyone you meet is a prospective member of your network, and the more people who know you and your work, the more champions you will have when it comes to turning your internship into a job. "Relationships are keys to any business setting," Pyle notes. "Make sure you make an effort to build relationships with not only your co-workers but also your manager. Having a cordial relationship with your manager makes it much easier for you to approach your manager when you might otherwise be hesitant to do so." Find a mentor. Parlay at least one of your network contacts within your internship into more than just a contact. Cultivate a mentor who can guide you in developing a strategy for obtaining permanent employment. For more about finding and working with a mentor, see our article, The Value of a Mentor. If the internship doesn't segue immediately into a job, keep in contact and be persistent. Maybe you're not a position to take a full-time when the internship ends. Perhaps you have coursework to complete before graduation. If that's the case, be sure to leave on the best possible terms. Write to your supervisor to thank him or her for the internship opportunity. Keep in touch periodically and ask about openings, especially as graduation approaches. In addition to touching base with your immediate supervisor determine what other company contacts might be valuable in your quest to join the company -- such as human resources folks and hiring managers in the departments that most interest you -- and remain in contact with them. Previous Page Next Page Back to The Quintessential Guide to Finding and Maximizing Internships Index Page