You are faced with a short window of time to turn your internship into a full-time job. So, what can you do to guarantee receiving that proof of employment letter at the end of your internship?
1) Act the Part
Remember, you want to work there full time. By acting the part and pretending to already be a full-time employee you will maximize the possibilities of becoming a full-time employee.
You can do this by:
- Adhering to the company’s office hours and dress code,
- Treating everyone respect and professionalism,
- Engaging with the current employees,
- Giving 100% of your attention to the work at hand.
The company chose you as an intern because they saw the potential in you. They think you are capable of completing the assignments set out for you – prove them right. Most interns are afraid of admitting that they cannot complete a task that has been set out for them. If you are struggling, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Speak to your “to-be” co-workers. They will help you through the work. Your supervisor will appreciate your honesty and your colleagues will get used to working alongside you.
2) Develop a Strong Connection with Your Supervisor and Colleagues
As stated above, don’t be shy around your potential full-time co-workers. It is crucial that you build good connections and leave a lasting impression in the short time that you are there. Take this opportunity to network. The connections that you build will prove to be vital. They can serve as references or can end up recommending you for the position (or potentially a different position).
Additionally, your supervisor is more likely to consider you for the job if he sees that you are getting along with everyone in the office.
Most businesses encourage networking by hosting intern events. Attend all of them. If the company has a sports team, join it. Learn more about the company you want to work for. Use this opportunity to speak to the other interns and the rest of the company. Find out what they like and don’t like about working there.
3) Develop a Strong Work Ethic
As soon as you begin your internship, speak to your supervisor. Find out what is expected of you, discuss the projects you would like to attempt, and take down all the deadlines.
Maintain a positive attitude and establish a willingness to get work done. Moreover, try and finish your tasks before the assigned dates; this demonstrates an inclination and eagerness to work for the company.
Show interest in the work you are doing. Make it clear that you are interested in working for the company. Express this verbally, through the work you do, and in your eagerness to be at the workplace.
When you finish a project, ask your supervisor for feedback; find out what you did wrong and what you did right. This will give your supervisor confidence that you will bring value and a right attitude to the company.
4) Show Initiative and Be Assertive
Don’t stop learning. Volunteer for assignments. Ask for specific projects.
It is important to stay busy during your internship. Try to finish your projects before the given deadline and ask your supervisor if you can tackle a project that you are interested in.
You need to prove that you can handle the responsibilities of working full-time, while at the same showing interest in the work that you are doing.
5) Express Your Appreciation
Lastly, remember to show your appreciation for the opportunity that you have received.
On the final day of your internship, remember to thank and bid your colleagues farewell. Leverage every source of information you have gained to personalise all your final interactions.
And most importantly, send a genuine and personal email about your time working for the company.
If you unfortunately do not receive a follow-up about working full-time, continue to stay in touch with your colleagues and your supervisor. This will lead them to consider you for a position in the future and to inform you about potential job openings.