Turn your internship into a job offer
Written by The Arena & Maisie Benson
Well done! You've lined up your next opportunity (or right about to). Internships are a great way to get a taster for a company and also the role you’re building experience in. But if you’re ready to lock in a full-time role, how can you give yourself the best chance of securing a spot in that company longer-term?
01: Check out the current team
If there are any juniors currently at the company, were they interns there first? By having a stalk on LinkedIn, you might get a better insight into their typical recruitment process.
02: Ask in the interview
It’s absolutely reasonable to mention it in your interview! Asking whether there’s potential for a full-time role at the end of the internship, shows forward-thinking and commitment to the company.
03: Be additive
Don’t just do what’s expected of you, go above and beyond! Your end goal is for the employer to think: “Omg, what am I going to do without [your name] next month?!” Your enthusiasm and positive attitude are just as important as the work you produce in this time - really!
04: Build relationships
Really spend the time getting to know your team. Be memorable and make those connections! Make an effort where possible to get involved, instead of quietly working away in the corner.
05: Don’t sit on the sidelines
Get involved! Always make an effort where possible to join in the fun stuff. Zoom quizzes, pizza Fridays, rounders tournaments in the park - anything and everything!
06: Drop it into conversation...
Your line manager isn’t a mind-reader, so if you have the opportunity to catch up, make it clear that you’d love to become a full-time team member. Also, why not show your portfolio to the rest of the team if you get the chance! It's a great opportunity for extra feedback and they may know someone at another agency that might be hiring at the time.
07: The entire internship isn’t an interview
There's so much to gain from internships and feeling the pressure to come out of it with a job might mean you act nervous and aren’t learning as much as you could! Being yourself is the only way to get a true feel for the place and to know the company is as good a fit for you, as you are for them.
08: Leave your mark
Is there a fun way you can say thanks or leave your mark? Sometimes timing just doesn't align and jobs don't materialise immediately - but you’ll be the first person they think of when they are hiring.
Good luck! Our DMs are always open if you want to plan out your next move together :)
