How to Score a Winning Internship and Be the MVP
Everybody has to start somewhere. The advertising industry’s version of working your way up to the big leagues often starts with an internship. At Planit, we love coaching interns, and we are lucky enough to have drafted some as full-time team players.
We asked Planit’s intern managers what advice they have for incoming interns on getting hired, making the most out of an internship, and what skills stand out the most for future full-time hires.
What do interns learn during their internship outside of technical skills? (Example: time management, working remotely with a team)
“When I was a PR intern, outside of skills associated with the industry, I learned what it was like to work and succeed in a professional environment. I learned how to communicate professionally with my co-workers, how to share ideas with our clients, how to talk to reporters and other professionals outside our agency, how to manage my time through different tasks and complete my assignments within a specific deadline.”
“Interns on the account team learn time management skills, how to work with cross-functional teams, how to navigate difficult conversations, and how to communicate with clients in both an approachable and professional way.”
In what ways is an internship an interview for a full-time job?
“I’m always looking at other attributes which may showcase whether or not that one-time intern could be a full-time hire for our agency. Being an intern is not an easy position, you get thrown into a lot of assignments for different clients that you may not know well yet.”
Harry H.
“I’ve worked with two interns who have become full-time Planit employees! The way you perform and carry yourself during your internship always leaves an impression on the people you work with. Even though there may not be immediate positions available, interns are some of the first people we think of when there is room for growth.”
Daysi P.
What qualities differentiate a one-time intern from a potential full-time hire?
“If you can maintain a positive attitude, work hard, and show that you’re willing to go the extra mile to ensure tasks are done right and are flexible/adaptable to any feedback or work that is thrown your way, that speaks volumes to the type of full-time you’ll be for the company.”
Harry H.
“The ability to integrate into our team and culture along with showing the ability to quickly pick up and apply the skills of the position.”
What are some “soft skills” you look for in an intern?
“Initiating participation, not just participating but also engaging on a deeper level. Being curious and asking a lot of questions. Someone who can be in a large group, be engaged and bring some value, even just ask a good proactive question.”
Ashton M.
“Some of the soft skills we find important are being a strong communicator, problem-solver, and a person who can easily adapt. Agency life is very fast paced, and you always need to pivot based on what’s coming!”
Daysi P.
How can a potential intern stand out when they are applying for internships?
“Mostly, it’s engagement in the process and a cultural fit, are they going to get in the flow of our teams. Initiative is also a good one. Know about our organization, our work, our people. Did they take the time to read our blogs, review our clients and our work? Our website gives applicants a lot to work with. Will they make the most of the experience and will they bring something the table?”
Ashton M.
“I always like when interns reach out directly and follow up right after interviews. It shows they know how to take initiative! There’s always value in reaching out via LinkedIn as well. Sometimes people may think it’s odd, but in reality it shows how committed and interested you are.”
Daysi P.
Is the resume dead? Have you ever found an intern in another way? (Example: scouting on LinkedIn, referral)
“Certainly there are other ways to identify talent whether it be through traditional networking, referrals, scouting on LinkedIn, etc. But for me, the resume is far from being dead. I work in an industry full of professionals that promote for a living. A resume showcases that you effectively know how to promote yourself in written form, which is the first step in being able to promote other companies. I personally would never hire an intern unless I reviewed their resume first.”
Harry H.
“I’ve found interns through referrals – but I do think there is value in resumes as well! Word of mouth is important, but looking at experience on a resume and papers/projects from class are always important to round out how you understand a candidate as well.”
Daysi P.
Final thoughts?
“Applicants should show a demonstrated and informed interest in the organization and position available. That can overcome resume gaps or holes. Attitude and aptitude matter. We don’t expect fully polished applicants but someone who leaves better than when they arrived.”
Ashton M.
An internship is a way for those who are new to the advertising industry to learn more about different roles and different agencies. It’s as much of an interview for the intern to get to know the agency as it is for the agency to get to know the intern. Making the most out of an internship depends on asking questions, honing your soft skills, and treating it as a learning experience.
Click here for an internship position at Planit.
Sources: Forbes