It’s my last day interning for DSM and time flew by. As I look back on my wonderful experience, there’s one overwhelming question. How the hell did I get my internship here? I mean, imagine a goofy 19-year-old kid whose voice is as deep as James Earl Jones, with long hair (or amazing flow as I like to call it) glasses, and at times, lacking coordination. Guess what: That’s me.
As a 19-year-old, I am still entirely new to the whole concept of entering the workforce in a couple years. You can check with my boss but I’m pretty sure I was sweating throughout my interview here.
But the thing is, getting an internship is not as hard as it’s piped up to be. As I look back to the first time I walked through DSM’s doors for my interview, I was as nervous as could be. The internship hype is pretty dramatic for college kids everywhere. The best way for any college student to land his/her own internship at a marketing agency internship may not be as hard as they might think.
Do Your Research
It is vital that anyone looking for an internship (especially with a marketing agency) knows the company’s culture, values and mission. Go through the company’s website from top-to-bottom, and look up your interviewer on LinkedIn.
Have an understanding of the company and what they stand for. This will help you not only in the interview, but also for your own assessment. If the company turns out to be not what you expected, you’re saving time and energy which could be used otherwise.
Most importantly, you have to be a good fit as a person, not just an employee. If you share the same values, fit in with the atmosphere and are motivated to help achieve the same mission as the company, I promise you that you will wake up every morning and enjoy going to work. Plus,the company will be glad they have an employee like you who fits in with everyone else and is motivated to accomplish the same goals. It’s mutually beneficial.
Cross your T’s and Dot your I’s
One of the things I am most thankful for nowadays is the good manners and etiquette my parents instilled in me as a kid. Be outgoing, polite and show your gratitude for being given the opportunity to be interviewed. This appreciation goes a long way. Have a firm handshake. As you are preparing for your interview, look over your resume so you can expound on all facets of your education and previous work eperiences.
Always get dressed up and get your hair cut, that goes without saying. When you have luscious locks like I do, it’s hard to see them go, I understand. But you absolutely have to do it. You don’t get a second chance for a first impression, so you need to put your best foot forward, espcially when it comes to appearance.
Go the Extra Mile
One of my favorite quotes is that of the legendary Vince Lombardi. Lomabardi once said “I firmly believe that any man’s finest hour, the moment he holds most dear, is when he has worked his heart out for a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle victorious.”
Hard work pays off. Always has, always will. Don’t be afraid to go the extra mile. Arrive early or offer to stay late. Make some sacrifices. People will take notice and absolutely will be grateful. If you haven’t noticed, us college students have it rough. Each and every day there are thousands of kids our age competing for the same lucrative internships, the same jobs, the same opportunities.
The competition is tough, and it will only get tougher. If you’re not willing to make some sacrifices and put your nose to the grindstone, somebody else will.
Be Genuine, Be Yourself
At the end of the day, you must be yourself and let your own unique personality and creativity shine through. In marketing (as the saying goes) it’s not what you say, but how you make people feel, that leaves an impression. Be yourself! The only way to really enjoy where you work is to not only love what you do, but love being there. Every marketing agency has its own unique team that not only works together but also enjoys each other’s company.
Don’t be afraid to be yourself, whether it’s goofy, creative, athletic, artistic, you name it. Your interviewers (and possible future co-workers) will love you for your honesty and individuality. You have your own set of talents and everyone has something different and valuable to bring to the table. Never be afraid to show who you are and what you’re all about.
Closing Thoughts
Alas, I have reached the end of my post, and only have a couple hours left of working here for the summer, so here comes the nostalgia. This is the process I stuck to and I’m happy I did. Thanks to my fellow interns (we had some good times) and thank you to my co-workers for helping me as well as giving me valuable advice for my future endeavors. It’s been a fun ride, but it’s time to get back to the questionable cafeteria food and 8 am classes.
What do you think about these tips? Were they helpful?
Let us know in the comments below!
