THREE SKILLS THAT WILL GUARANTEE YOUR FUTURE INTERNSHIP SUCCESS

by Jason Aceto - Staff writer

If you are currently in CEGEP or university, you’re probably starting to think about applying to your first work internship. As you ask yourself, “What kind of internship do I want?” another question to ask is, “What skills will make me successful as an intern?” These questions may feel daunting because there are so many successful skills from which to choose... but don't panic yet!" I've got you covered. Thispiecewillidentifythreeskillsthatareeasytolearnandnotsodifficulttoapply Thegoalhereisto giveyouasure-firewaytoincreaseyourvaluetopotentialinternshipemployers.

Create a Timesheet

Not all internships require a timesheet so it’s always best to check the welcome package provided by your employer. Either way, knowing how to create a log of your time can come in handy.Asamatteroffact,itcanbenefitbothyou and your employer. Exactly how, you ask?Here’s how: 1.Tracking your time can reduce the risk of being under or overpaid 2 If your internship requires a final internship report, keeping track of what you did and what you learned can help mitigate the stress of writing one. 3. Keeping track of the tasks you performed allows you to reflect on all the new skills you acquired. 4. If your supervisor asks for regular updates on your work, a time log will help you answer their questions in precise waysWhat about the format? There is no specific format for time logs. Once again, check your welcome package. Typically interns will track their work with Microsoft Excel or a Google Sheet. Include your name name, the date, your start/end time, the numberofhoursworkedandalltasksyoudid.

Know Excel

Newly hired interns are often tasked with grunt work such as getting coffee, cataloging documents and compiling data. After all, who better to do this stuff than a new intern! And don’t be surprised if your manager asks you to perform data entry. Examples of data include sales, expenses and employee results. Knowing your way around Excel will make you a lot more valuable(i.e.,yoursupervisorwon’thavetowaste their time teaching you). You may be tempted to say, “Hold on, Jason, why would I waste my time learning something on my own, when I can learn it during an internship?” Remember… its about the value you bring to them and what you can do forthecompany.

Rookies often think it’s about what the company can do for them: don't be a rookie even if it's your first job! Here’s how: 1. Watch a YouTube video. 2. Subscribe to LinkedIn Learning through your locallibrary 3 Askafriendfortipsandtricks

Communication

Establishinganopenlineofcommunicationearly onisprobablythehardest,yetmostimportantof the three skills we analyze in this article. Establishing an open line of communication is not only a good idea, but also indispensable from the very start of the internship. It will set you up to understand your employer's expectations. Pro tip: this is typically your supervisor’s responsibility. However, taking initiative and asking about communication preferences will ensure that open dialogue happens on a regular basis. Not all supervisors have experience in managing people, let alone interns. This further reinforces the importance of being proactive, especiallyifregularcommunicationtouchpoints have not been suggested. How would you do this? 1. On your first day (or shortly thereafter), inquire about what they and the company will expect of you during the internship. Ask for advice on how you can meet expectations. 2. In your first week (or shortly thereafter), ask your manager if it would be helpful to schedule short weekly meetings to discuss your workload and priorities. 3. Ask if there will be a performance review at the midpoint and endpoint of the internship