Participating in an internship programme is the best way to ascertain if a job is truly your cup of tea, or if the hosting organisation nurtures a work environment in which you can see yourself growing with.

After all, you never really know what a job comprises and how well an organisation looks after its staff unless you have had first-hand experience on the ground. Internships allow you to observe an organisation's vast operations as well as determine if a company's values align with your own. They are as close to a job experience as it gets!

A Full-Time Position Possibility

Some interns get the opportunity of being asked to convert their temporary position to a permanent one – a favourable outcome if interns have had a pleasant experience with the company and do see themselves pursuing a career there.

Although you should not be expecting anything, you should at least ensure that you are always in the best form to be offered the opportunity.

Show Initiative

Your initiative to take on new tasks, ability to complete them and your willingness to learn is tantamount to the vast amount of potential you possess. It is also important to remember that enthusiasm is a key trait employers look for. Enthusiasm illuminates your willingness to learn and delve into new things, and this is something that most employers value.

Only when you are able to complete the smallest and most mundane tasks with a good attitude will your supervisor recognise your ability to take on new and larger roles.

Develop Relationships

Interns must remember to start building a relationship with their supervisor right from the get-go. Do not be afraid to ask questions about the job and company even if it makes you look unknowledgeable. Of course, it is wise to search for your own answers on the corporate website and ask questions to elicit answers that are not readily available or easily found.

Asking questions leads to meaningful conversations and allows you to be more engaged with your supervisor. In addition, build rapport with your co-workers and exhibit your easy-going personality and ability to work well in a team. These professional connections and relationships you form will give you a head-start in developing a valuable professional network.

Offer your Insights

Since you have a fresh pair of eyes to the business of the company, it might be easier to identify areas that can be improved, considering that existing employees might be caught up in refining product details and oftentimes forget to step out to see the bigger picture. For instance, a B2C company might want to know how a product can be enhanced to keep up with fast changing times and improve usability. As a millennial, offer your insight on consumer behaviour among young people and create solutions from a fresh perspective.

Even if you do not get the opportunity of filling a full-time job position, leave the company on a good note and keep in touch with your supervisors and colleagues. The relationships you have formed and maintained will allow you to expand your network and be kept updated on future job openings that are relevant to you.