4 Tips on Turning an Internship Into a Job Offer

4 Tips on Turning an Internship Into a Job Offer Gaining an internship at the company of your dreams is a HUGE win.  Never underestimate how big an opportunity it is the intern market is extremely competitive; and for good reason. Snagging an internship is a foot in the door and  a chance to prove yourself to your desired employer. It will quite often lead to a job offer. As internships are often unpaid, giving up your time for the company and going the extra mile is noted as a big show of commitment on your part. When roles open up internally or theres bandwidth to make a hire, youll likely get the call up before the job ever reaches the external market. At the end of your internship you should  know the systems, the people, the ins and outs of the business. If youve proven yourself properly,  the  company would be crazy not to bring you on board. Whatever you do, dont let yourself down by treating the internship like extra work. Treat it like a golden ticket to your desired career. Go hard or go home.  If you remember to do these 4 things, youll be ordering your morning coffee off of the new intern, quicker than you can say who takes milk? 1. Get in early, and never leave first You wont have to do this for  your whole professional life,  dont worry. It is, however, important to  go the extra mile for the duration of the internship.  Getting in early, even if its just by 15 minutes, shows youre serious about what youre doing. Realistically, the extra time wont mean youll get that much work done, but all it does is paint a positive picture of you in the eyes of the management team. Youll also feel a lot calmer and in control if you allow yourself time to settle in before the day kicks off. Likewise, never be the office clock-watcher who is always the first to leave for the day. Your internship is like one giant job interview dont rush in and out like youve got way better places to be. Some people might disagree, but if you  arent the only intern, try to be the last one standing every day. Its unlikely multiple interns will get jobs at the end of their time so you need to make sure if an opportunity arises, youre the clear favourite. 2. Remind yourself youre not there yet Dont get too big for your boots. Even if you feel like youre smashing your tasks out of the ballpark, dont let your ego take over. You need to remain humble, yet confident. Employers wont take kindly to big-noting behaviours or demanding asks. Bite your tongue if you feel like youre being babied youre in a period of learning. Be a sponge and soak it all up. 3. Look the part So you mightnt be there yet, but you need to show you could be one day, very soon. Make sure your outfits are in line with what the other staff members are wearing. Dont dress down, just becuase you arent out meeting clients yet or in front of the customer. Taking pride in your professional appearance is important you want your manager to know you take the opportunity seriously and consider yourself ready to step up. 4. Be proactive Yes, you need to stay humble and willing to learn at all times, but you also need to back yourself and be proactive. Dont wait for opportunities to come to you if youve landed an internship, the business has faith that there is a mutually beneficial reason for you being there. Look for projects to get involved in network with the existing employees to see if you can tag along with them to meetings or help them out with something. Offer to look into a new idea on behalf of the company, or do some research you know will help the company. Some companies offer internships, but dont really have the manpower internally to provide you with a one-on-one coach. You will often be left to your own devices, which might seem daunting at the start, but is actually a blessing in disguise. Turn little direction or radio silence into a golden opportunity to use your initiative and prove you dont need your hand held. And finally, NEVER STOP ASKING QUESTIONS. Its the only way you will learn, and managers respect professionals  who are inquisitive and concentrated on learning properly,  and getting the most out of the experience. If youre made to feel stupid for asking genuine questions, run for the hills you dont want to work there anyway.