You’ve landed the internship, and worked your tail-off hustling and showing your worth, but as the season wraps up you have one thing left on your mind: Can this turn into full-time employment? Being young and growing with a company as a young professional has its advantages, both career based and financially for your future. Being financially uncertain as your internship come to a close is something far too familiar in young professionals. The transformation to a full-time position could mean health benefits, retirement plans, and financial security.
According to LinkedIn only 59 percent of internship lead to job offers, which is positive for young interns, however as an individual you need to stand out and dramatically increase your odds.
If you are an intern that is motivated and seeking a full-time job, it could be challenging trying to figure out your next move. Here are some ways in which you help land that internship and turn it into a full-time career.
Turning an Internship into a Long-Term Career
1. Don’t be afraid to be the squeaky wheel.
The saying goes, the squeaky wheel gets the oil. This is also true in the workforce. It’s important to keep in touch with your employer after the internship has ended or after you graduate or even take another internship. If you are proactive in this approach, employers are more likely to keep you on their list of hires. Stay connected with the company’s current news and accomplishments and be sure to contact the employer to congratulate them on the company’s minor and major successes.
2. Show-off that awesome work ethic.
Work ethic is a big one, and don’t be shy putting your best foot forward. Arrive to work 15-30 minutes early and be ready to start on time. Don’t over promise and under deliver. Internships are basically tangible resumes that you have to constantly prove yourself worth every day to your hires. So put your best foot forward and create good long-term obtainable habits so that you can achieve a long-term job.
3. Ask and engage.
Despite the fact that we’ve come a long way in our culture regarding the de-stigmatization of asking for help, it still seems as if reaching out and asking a supervisor or superior for help is the last option for millions of people. Some people think it makes you look weak or vulnerable. In fact it’s quite the opposite.. Asking for help and interfacing in dialogue about your position shows, interest and integrity. You are showing your employer that your performance matters and you will ask questions to strive for perfection.
4. Network, network and Oh yeah, network.
Expanding your network is never a bad thing, but those that understand the power of it, make it a point to leverage it and have increased success. Having a good reputation for keeping up good contact with those in and outside your field is optimal. You never know when your paths might cross and what doors may be opened for you, just by increasing and growing your own network.
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