The pandemic of COVID-19 has altered the way millions of people function. Working from home seemed to be a temporary solution at the time. However, as time went by and workers began to work from home, it became apparent that work from home was here to stay for many. As a result of the need to rapidly react to the ongoing pandemic, several organisations that offered Summer internships in 2020 changed their internships to a virtual model. Since so many of these programmes have been so successful, several organisations are considering continuing to provide remote internships in 2021 and beyond. Find out how you can still make the best of your internship in virtual mode here.Most of us are concerned about how they can obtain real-world work experience from the comfort of their own homes for their Summer internships. The apprehensions, however, would be dissipated early in the internship. Despite the steep learning curve and remote nature of the internship, one should be able to complete the project with the help of analysts and managers on the team.While everyone's internship experience will be unique, here is a list of tips and key takeaways for anyone doing a virtual or in-person internship:
1. Define Your Objectives And Expectations From The Start,
Contact your supervisor before your internship to discuss your internship goals and the tasks you will be working on. Managers can be able to tailor tasks and projects to your needs and help you improve your skill set if you communicate early. It's also a good idea to talk about what they expect from you during the internship so you're aware of your responsibilities.
2. Regular Work Updates.
Managers are always unable to keep up with what you do on a regular basis. Especially during a virtual internship when you cannot meet them in person every day to give a quick update on your work. During your internship, make it a habit to update your manager via email at the end of each week on the steps you have taken towards completing the assignment, tasks you have completed, and your involvement in the company outside of your job. It would also include a list of items you want to focus on next week to demonstrate that you are planning ahead, as well as any questions you might have. Managers would be able to easily remember what you did if you provide them with this detail while filling out your end-of-internship reviews.
3. Seek A Mentor
You could be officially paired with a mentor at certain organisations. You can find a mentor in a number of ways if you don't have one assigned to you. This may include asking your boss for advice, reaching out to people in your department, or even using LinkedIn to network. Mentors, especially those who have recently been in your shoes (Especially your seniors), are an excellent resource for guiding you through the internship phase because they can relate to your current circumstances. They will help you set short- and long-term career goals, as well as provide guidance and expertise on small tasks like how to handle your project.
4. Interact And Network
Employees of all levels of experience are often willing to talk with interns about their experiences and provide candid insights into the business. It is always good to ask your manager to suggest one or two people from their network with whom you can communicate to learn more in order to make the most of your internship experience. Try to make connections across departments via various channels during the internship.Whether your internship is virtual or in person, seize the opportunity to gain hands-on experiences, and jump-start your career.All the best!Read Next -> 10 Rules To Navigate Through The Remote Summer Internship Maze