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An internship is an excellent opportunity to gain knowledge about marketing best practices, to put your talents to work in the real world, and to prepare for performing in a professional environment. As you navigate new deadlines and expectations, it is important not to get overwhelmed. Consider these tips to help you make the most of your internship experience.

Attitude: Be prompt and positive! This may seem elementary, but show up on time everyday and limit personal cell phone usage during work hours. Engage in any projects that come your way – no matter how boring or simplistic they may seem. You aren’t expected to know everything, so ask questions and solicit feedback from your superiors. If you finish a task, be sure to look for some other way to be productive. Always remember that this is an extended interview process that will become a determining factor in whether or not you are hired after the internship.

Writing: Establish proper writing skills and build your portfolio in any marketing position. If you are in public relations, challenge yourself with press releases. For those in new business development, build a new business pitch or response to an RFP (Response for Proposal). Those in account service must learn the basics for developing a creative brief, and creatives must learn to transform briefs into compelling creative solutions.

Become an Expert: As you take on client work, familiarize yourself with the client’s industry. Learning about clients’ businesses and industries is a key aspect of marketing strategy. By knowing the marketplace, you become a budding expert in specific sectors. Likewise, continually update your resume as you complete new projects, or keep a journal of your contributions to each campaign throughout your internship. These will come in handy when showing potential employers examples of your work.

Networking: This is not only key in using your internship as a stepping stone to another job, but in building relationships that will help take you to the next level within your current organization. Start reaching out to colleagues right away to learn more about their projects and how you can assist in their campaigns. If, at the end of the internship, a full-time job is not offered, keep in touch with your colleagues as they may be good references for future opportunities.

With the knowledge gained from this blog, hard work, and a rising ambition, any young professional can transform the internship experience into a successful marketing career. I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors!

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