What to look for in an internship?
- Ellen Harkin
- Apr 3, 2017
- 2 min read
Most of us will be an intern at some stage in our career. Although there is a misconception that all you do is take the coffee orders, the right internship can allow you to learn and grow within a learning environment. With all this in mind, what should one look for in the perfect internship...

1. Job suitability
This may seem obvious but you would not believe the amount of people who do not look into a job description before applying. They see the company name and presume the job will suit them. The rule of thumb is as follows: Go by the job spec not the company! Look into the exact role you are applying to and talk to a current intern within a similar role.
2. Location
It all seems great applying to different internships all around the country or even abroad but you need to be practical. There is little point applying to an internship that will take you two hours to get to in the morning. This is not your job it is a taste of the real working world, make it as easy as possible for yourself!
3. Contract
It is vital you sign a contract will all the necessary requirements. You may only be interning but you still should know your start/end dates and other details up front. This is your first point of call if you are working too many hours etc. so it is very important.
4. Mentoring
Intern at a company that will guide you in your duties and help you to grow. There is little point working night and day to not receive any feedback. If you are told what you do right or could improve on from the offset you will be get far more out of the year.
5. Fun
It may be work but lets face it you want to enjoy yourself as well. They say that if you love a job you will never work a day in your life. This too can be said about interning. If you enjoy the experience you will make the most of every opportunity and give it your all!

Comments