Internships are practically a requirement for a career in PR, but so often we equate internship experiences to being a glorified barista and copier. At Covet, we are lucky to have a blossoming internship program in which three times a year we hire 2-4 bright, aspiring PR pros to come work with us and learn the in’s and out’s of this agency. No coffee making involved.
We believe much of what you get out of an internship is what you put into it, so we put together a list of ways to nail your internship and arm you for a successful PR career.
Always show up on time. This seems like a simple tip, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t follow it. Show up on time, or even a few minutes early, and prove to your employers that you’re eager to work.
Never accept idleness. If you find yourself twiddling your thumbs waiting for a new project, ask for more work! Not only will your employer be impressed with your efficiency, he/she will be impressed with your hunger to work.
Read, read, and then read some more. Become a voracious reader of traditional media and new media outside the office. Skim through magazines and scour blogs so that you’re caught up on current trends and events in the media.
Shadow someone in every level of the company. If you are seriously considering a full-time position at this company, you should know what your day-to-day would look like. Request a shadowing opportunity with each facet of the company so you have a general idea of each employee’s role in making the wheel go round.
Pick the brains of your superiors. Suggest grabbing a quick lunch or a cup of coffee and ask them for genuine advice on a future career in PR. Not only will you hear some entertaining stories, fostering a mentor relationship will help you so much later in your career.
Set up monthly check ups with your mentor to discuss your progress. Not only will your mentor provide you with helpful feedback, but it also lends itself for the perfect time to discuss your internship goals and what you hope to get out of it.
Ask for a letter of recommendation. When the time comes to complete your internship term, request a letter of recommendation from your boss. While you may not be job hunting at the moment, receiving the letter now will be so helpful when you need one further down the line.
Covet PR currently offers internships in Summer (May – September), Fall (September – December) and Spring (January – May). We will be interviewing candidates for our Fall term in August 2017. If you want to learn more about the program, email [email protected] and tell us why you would make a great addition to our amazing team!
