Clarify logistical details
Agree on and confirm start/end dates, daily/weekly work hours and a specific schedule with your supervisor. Plan driving directions, parking, key access and security details. If you are working remotely and/or need to log your own hours, consider a free tool like Clockify or Toggl. Familiarize yourself with required software and communication tools. Communicate time-off requests early.
Observe your new environment
Notice interactions between co-workers, supervisors and employees. How is the office organized? What‘s your supervisor’s management and communication style? How do employees dress for work?
Clarify expectations
Determine the projects you will work on and what results are expected. Have a conversation with your supervisor about your learning goals for the internship, but understand that they likely have specific projects in mind. Routine tasks (answering phones, making copies, etc.) are often part of an intern’s duties, but focus on more substantive projects and tasks whenever possible. Ask how interns are evaluated; receiving regular, substantive feedback will help you develop your skills.
Create a Learning Contract
A Learning Contract, completed with your supervisor, can help start your internship off with a mutual understanding of expectations and learning objectives.
Give your best effort to all tasks and projects
Ask questions and be open to learning and changing your approach. Exercise good time management, and look for opportunities to expand your work. Diligence can lead to more responsibility and may help secure a strong reference for future opportunities.
Be professional. Arrive on time. Follow through on commitments. Keep cell phone use and other personal business to a minimum.
Communication and consideration are critical to maintaining good working relationships. Show that you’re in communication, engaged and eager to help the organization meet its goals.
Introduce yourself to the whole group. Learn about their roles and how they collaborate, and how your work contributes to the organization’s mission. Meet informally, or arrange a more formal informational interview. Connect on LinkedIn. Write thank you emails and stay in touch.
If problems arise
Determine if the difficulties you’re experiencing prevent you from fulfilling your internship duties or meeting your learning goals. Is there a work-around or a reasonable compromise? For perspective, discuss the situation with someone outside the organization (family, friend or Lazarus Center adviser). If the difficulties seriously impede your work or your learning, schedule a meeting with your supervisor to outline your concerns. Be open to other perspectives, and explore possible solutions together. By offering your ideas for resolution, your supervisor will see that you are committed to your internship and want to move forward.