We’d probably be here forever if we had to list all the amazing benefits of an internship. But most often than not, there are the select few benefits most people focus on, like the networking possibilities, opportunity to secure a full-time job, and, if you’re one of the lucky few, a paycheck. And while those are all amazing reasons to start an internship, there are many other, lesser-known, benefits of an internship that will help you become a better person and employee.
Independence
Unlike in school, you won’t be explicitly told everything you need to do at an internship. While you may be assigned a general task, it’s up to you to determine how best to complete it and when it’s ready to be turned over to your boss. Though minimal guidance may seem intimidating at first, many people find it to be surprisingly freeing and a nice break from the strict guidelines of traditional school assignments.
Time Management
Though it may not seem like it at first, the difference between a deadline in school and one in the office is pretty different. Especially in college, many students can get in the habit of procrastinating and creating something at the last minute, but that won’t fly in an office setting.
The best way to work at an internship is to get ahead as much as you can. If you get in the habit of working ahead of deadlines in all aspects of your life, there won’t be much that you can’t accomplish!
Improved Confidence
By the end of your internship, you’ll likely have an even greater understanding of your profession. And since you likely had to interview for the internship, you can now go on job interviews with confidence, because you have been through the process before. And because you likely started your internship not knowing anyone, you’ll probably leave more confident in your social skills.
Are you interested in getting an internship or furthering your professional life in other ways? If so, contact Debra Solomon, a professional life coach and the founder of Spectrum Strategies!