6 Guaranteed Ways to Succeed in Your Pr Internship
Author: Angelica Olivas
At the beginning of every semester, college students are busy applying for countless internships. After submitting applications, going through several rounds of interviews and sending your top work samples, you’ve finally received the offer letter in your inbox.
However, the work doesn’t stop there – now it’s time to show what you’ve got and learn all you can! The tips below will help you stand out and succeed in your next internship.
Say Yes to Everything
The best way to learn is to try everything you can, even if you don’t know how to do it. Use your time as an intern to take on a variety of tasks, whether it’s writing your first pitch, creating a media list or drafting a press release. If you’re interning at a PR agency that works with clients in various industries, you should try to work on at least one in each sector. Knowing what you don’t like is just as important as discovering what you love.
Ask Questions
You’ve likely heard it before, but there is no such thing as a silly question. It’s better to ask for clarity on a project you’re assigned than spend hours working on a task only to find out that you misunderstood what you needed to do. As an intern, everyone understands that you may not be familiar with certain tasks or industry jargon, and they are there to help guide you through it.
Be Proactive
As an intern, you have a unique opportunity because you’re stepping into a new environment that most of your colleagues have likely been in for a while. As you’re transitioning into your new role, you can provide a new perspective and a fresh set of eyes. Maybe there’s a process (or lack thereof) that you think could be streamlined or you notice there is an ongoing task that you can take over and improve. The team will appreciate your proactivity and will take your recommendations seriously.
Don’t Be Afraid of Feedback
It can be intimidating to ask your new coworkers for feedback, but there is no better way to take a pulse on your progress. Asking others how you performed on certain tasks opens the conversation to understand where your strengths lie and where you could improve. You should always strive to do better, and over time you’ll see how incorporating the feedback you’ve received has helped you grow.
Network
Forming relationships is an important part of beginning any new role, but it’s especially key in the PR industry. While you’re still getting to know everyone, reach out to your coworkers to schedule casual coffee chats. They will go a long way in feeling integrated as part of the team and will make you more comfortable asking questions when you need to. On the same note, lean on your current network. You might have a professor or former supervisor who you’d like to keep in touch with – informing them of your new role and asking for advice as you transition is a great way to keep those relationships going strong.
Be Confident & Have Fun!
Many college students and young professionals struggle with imposter syndrome – it’s easier said than done, but be confident! And remember that you were hired because you are qualified for the role. This is your chance to show your value and learn as much as possible. Your internship experience is what you make of it!
