Now that you have finally landed yourself an internship chance, you have to get ready for the interview! Some people are scared about it, and they have valid reasons for that. After all, you are going to be scrutinized by a bunch of hiring managers!
However, here are a few ways to intimidate them so they don’t turn you into a doormat! Ask them these questions to show them that you know what you are doing and you are ready to start learning!
What Will My Typical Day Look Like at Work?
Taking on an internship may sound like a walk in the park, but it is not. But at least it will be less stressful than a full-time job. Since you have decided to spend the summer at a workplace instead of by the beach, you must have valid reasons for this.
During your internship interview, you have to ask your interviewer what your typical day will look like once you start the work. Possibly, record the process, so that they can’t go back on their words later.
You can ask them whether you have to spend most of your time in the cubicle. Are you allowed to take a stroll in the garden or on the rooftop? Are you allowed to work independently, or is there a team effort involved?
What is the Company Culture Like?
To get an idea about the company culture, you have to read through the company website. In fact, you must go through it before you attend the internship interview. But after you get inside the interview room, don’t hold back from asking the interviewers about what the company culture is like.
If you have good emotional intelligence, you can even feel the air from the moment you walk into the company. Observe the paintings, notice boards, and the arrangement of the workplace for more ideas.
Are the employees sitting between cubicles? Or there is more group engagement? Are there any entertainment facilities and what kind are there? Do they only have console games for boys, or have lounges and board games for girls?
Don’t forget to observe the employee dress code. Are they uptight with strict black and white dress codes? Or are you allowed to wear colors?
What is the Internship Program Structure Like?
The internship program that you are attending must be clearly explained in your Appointment Letter. If they are not explained, you may have to worry about how your summer will go.
Generally, programs that are not properly explained on paper are subject to changes. Now, these changes can be good or bad.
An ideal internship program will give you plenty of opportunities to learn. And that learning won’t just be about specific tasks, but it will also be about how to get along with other employees, senior liaisons, common office courtesies, or other soft skills.
If you have a passion for writing, find out the possible learning curve for the position. Even when you know what the internship program is like on paper, make sure to confirm with your interviewers what you can expect after you join.
For instance, you can apply to online essay writers services and have a talk with the management team about possible internship opportunities. That way, you can become a part of a renowned learned community and develop your skills further with each task!
Who is Your Supervisor?
As an intern, you can’t be on your own. For you to learn about the ropes of the company and the nature of work, you need a supervisor.
This supervisor or mentor is supposed to help you manage your workflow, give you adequate training, report directly to HR, provide feedback on your performance, create your work schedule, and help you resolve any issues that may arise.
In fact, the hiring managers should introduce you to your supervisor before your official first day or before that time. Our advice is that don’t rely on your supervisor for everything because he or she also has her share of the workload. Try to be independent but don’t do anything that is beyond company rules.
How are You Going to Get Compensated?
Needless to say, you decided to work in that company because the compensation package is worth going for. Now, not all compensations are monetary. Some are related to weekly holidays, sick leave, and opportunities for bonuses.
We want to remind you that money should never be the main reason for agreeing to take up an internship. There are elements to consider, like the value it adds to your CV, the skills you will learn, and the professional network that you will build.
Is There Any Full-Time Employee That was an Intern Before?
Some people take on an internship opportunity because they want to spend a quality summer. On the other hand, some took the step so they can become full-time employees at the company. The best option is to become an intern in a company that will hire you once you finish school.
Provided that, you should ask your interviewers if there are any full-time employees who were previously interns. Don’t just fall for empty words though! Make sure that it is true!