Being open and honest are key tools to success in your internship and in your life. However, it may not be easy to share unconventional details with your host company during your internship. If the opportunity presents itself, don’t hide in the shadows.
Tell your employer how you really feel with the utmost respect and admiration. Although it may be tough to open up, you may find that you are very glad you did. Here are six things interns should tell their employers.
“I am overqualified.”
If you have what it takes to do more challenging work in your internship, let it be known! Once you have completed your required duties, seek out your superior to discuss receiving work that requires more of you. The company will ultimately benefit from your skills and you will gain the hands on experience that you need from the program. If you are nervous to tell someone that you are overqualified for the work they are assigned to you, just know that the outcome may be a lot better than holding it in. Your employer will be happy to see initiative and shouldn’t have a problem putting you to work.
“I am not getting the experience I need.”
When you are stuck organizing the filing cabinet or licking envelopes, chances are you aren’t getting much on the job training. Tell your employer that you would like to learn more from the internship. Convey how important it means to you to not only benefit from the experience, but to help boost productivity for the company. Keep in mind, if you are unpaid or if you are receiving academic credit (or both!), you shouldn’t be spending more than 20% of your time doing busy work.
“I am overwhelmed.”
There may be times at your internship where you have bitten off more than you can chew. Instead of working until you crash, let your superior know the problem. In order for the internship to be a success, it will need to be mutually beneficial. If you are too burdened with your task you will most likely become stressed and make mistakes. Your employer can come up with a solution to remedy the problem and get you back on track to enjoying a fulfilling internship.
“Take notice of my accomplishments.”
When you do a job well done, you want to be recognized for it. If you feel as if your progress is going unnoticed, speak up. Let your mentor know about the things that you are doing well and how it affects the company. This can help to perfect the internship program to pay more attention to future interns’ successes.
“I need a letter of recommendation.”
After the completion of your first internship, you may want to pursue other professional opportunities in the near future. If you don’t have much experience in the field, the internship will be the focal point of your resume. Don’t be afraid to ask your employer for a letter of recommendation to add to your professional portfolio. The odds are in your favor if you have done a great job at the internship. Your previous employer should be more than happy to provide you with what you need to move on in your budding career.
“Thank you.”
When an employer takes the time to invest in a young hopeful’s goals and aspirations, it is truly thanks worthy. Take the time to hand write a note to your host company at the end of your internship to thank them for the opportunity and experience you gained during that time. Showing your appreciation with a simple thank you can go a long way.
Can you speak up to your host company for your next internship? Visit www.bridge.jobs to search for internships in Rhode Island.
