How to Get Value Out of an Internship – Whether You Get the Job or Not

Are you a college student? Take a seat and let me tell you how it is.

Just some advice from the one that does the hiring. An interview is a great opportunity for professionals to not only get to know students, but for students to find out as much as possible about the company. Plus, just an interview can give you a gauge of whether or not you like corporate, nonprofits, agency or the other million options.

Let’s start at the beginning. When you enter a business, enter with confidence. You know who you are there to meet with, so show that. Also, dress professionally. I know True has a relaxed culture but I appreciate someone who comes dressed for the job they want. Work! Also, bring extra copies of your resume and work samples, but I’ll hit on that a little later.

My pet peeves that are a must from interviewees: Ask questions. Please, please, please ask questions. Some good ones are:

• What is the favorite project you’ve worked on?
• Have you ever had an instance that you didn’t know what to do or recommend? What did you do?
• What is your favorite part of working at XYZ? What’s your least favorite?
• What will I be working on?
• Can you show me some work you are doing right now?

Bring work samples and extra resumes. Don’t just bring them but show them off! I want to see them but it’s also a bit of a test because I’m not going to ask you every time to see them. Work them into the discussion about your resume. Own it! Writing is key to any marketing, public relations and even analytics internship. Good writing is a lost art form and we want to see you can write to a key audience and know the right messages.

That leads me to one that may seem picky – but make eye contact. And act enthusiastic! If you don’t seem to care, I’m not going to hire you, because you don’t fit into True’s culture. Also, send a thank you. You pick the best way but I really love to get snail mail… (hint, hint)

At the end of the day, I have to tell people no. And that’s the no fun part. We can have 10 good applicants and interviewees but we only have one spot. Get the most you can out of an interview. If the interviewer tells you to keep in touch and follow-up for additional help or advice, do it. We don’t tell everyone that.

Keep in mind that someone telling you “no” is certainly not the end of the world so keep your head up, and keep on shining!

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