Internships can be daunting, especially ones that are not in person! Although remote internships aren’t typical, these pointers may help you make the most of it! Here are some tips for working a remote internship:
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
With any new experience, it’s completely normal and expected to ask for help. Asking questions can help your employer better understand what kind of learner/worker you are, and it shows that you’re engaged!
- If a co-worker needs help with something, opt for a video chat/phone call rather than messaging.
This can be a great way to engage with your co-workers in tasks, and help you get to know them better! Also, it can be nice to hear another human voice in the midst of a very digital work day.
- If you mess up on something, don’t be afraid to be honest.
Honesty is always the best policy! Doing this will show your boss and co-workers that you are willing to admit your mistakes. On the flip side, keeping a slip under wraps could potentially harm things in the future, so it’s always good to report to the higher ups if you’re confused. Besides, you are the intern, meaning you are not expected to be perfect! Admitting your faults is the best way to improve for the future.
- Just because your internship is not your exact field of work, doesn’t mean you won’t gain useful experience from it.
Oftentimes, internships don’t have to be a direct segway into the industry you may want to go into, and this can be a great thing! Having an open mind about internships can not only expand your experience, it may even sway your interests–or you may find your true passion in something you never thought of!
- Send “thank you” notes at the end of your internship.
Formalities like these are small but effective ways to show your appreciation/professionalism after an internship opportunity. Additionally, it can give you time to truly reflect on your experience and what you learned from it.
- Ask your employer if they would be willing to write you a reference in the future.
Adding on to the “thank you” note, a formal request to use your co-workers/boss as a future reference is a great idea! It could really come in handy for future endeavors, and keep the connection between you and your former co-workers strong!
I hope some of these tips resonated. Best of luck!