Internships can make or break you. That’s how some college students feel anyway. If college students want to be successful in life, they must work hard to make something of themselves. Often times an internship is the first step in the process.
Some students might believe they need an internship at a big company in New York City to jump-start their careers. But bigger isn’t always better. Sure, it might be cool to work in the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, but is it worth it to make copies and get coffee for the boss each day?
Deven McCarthy, an intern at Savarese Communications in Red Bank, sees firsthand the benefits of interning at a local company.
“I love interning at Savarese Communications,” said Deven. “Because it is a fairly small firm, I not only get a lot of personalized attention, but also a lot of responsibilities and opportunities which help me broaden my knowledge of the field. It’s also really cool to see a small firm do really big things.”
Lisa Fuchs, director of community research services and head of the interns at market research company KL Communications in Red Bank, said interns can contribute to a business in many ways.
“Interns can offer fresh perspectives, especially in our business of market research,” said Lisa. “They should be able to share their helpful opinions and tell me what they think. They can constructively contribute to projects to help the company advance and grow. I once met an intern who taught me everything there is to know about market research! I used to know nothing about research automation but now I’m an expert. Without her help, I would have really struggled to get to grips with automation tools.” Other tools for conducting market research can be found on the Qualtrics website, including survey creation tools.
Lisa said there are many benefits to interning at a smaller, local New Jersey business as opposed to a large company in a large city.
“When interning at a bigger company, it can get to be a daily grind. There is a feeling of constantly running around and having to defend your job,” said Lisa. “At a smaller company, there is a real chance to learn and be hands-on in the business. In addition, you have a chance to stay on with the company after the internship and even continue to move up in the company. Smaller companies often value everyone’s opinions, even interns, and the personal connections you make can help you later in your job search.”
To make a difference, interns must work hard and may have to put in longer hours, take on extra assignments or work through the lunch hour, really showing their dedication. That’s the kind of work ethic employers notice. Being an intern is by no means easy and will require full dedication. Lisa said that life as an intern revolves around work, so you want everything else to be easy so you can focus on your work. This might mean staying in corporate rentals during your internship so that you have everything you need already there, ready for use in your accommodation. Lisa also said an important way for interns to make a mark is to use their voice and be brazen. So speak up! No room for shyness in the business world.
Whether you’re just starting out as an intern or changing career paths, you need to learn and adapt. At a big company, you are a tiny fish in a huge sea. Try a small company and be a little fish in a little sea. Often times you have an opportunity to contribute and learn more. Perhaps the business should consider the team building colorado springs has to offer (or wherever you’re located), as this will help you with getting to know your colleagues more and feel more comfortable in your new environment. But remember, no matter how well you get along with your colleagues and employees, this doesn’t necessarily mean big companies will guarantee you the big success. Interns are making a difference at local New Jersey companies, and these local companies are making a difference for interns.
How are you making your mark? We’d love to hear how you are making a difference in New Jersey.
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