Like wielding a wand with finesse, internship etiquette is the key to unlocking the door to a successful internship experience. It’s the magical spellbook that guides you on how to behave, communicate, and interact in the professional realm. From punctuality to communication prowess, this article will give tips on enchanting your journey as an intern.
The Do’s in Internship
During your internship, there are certain things you should keep in mind to make the most of your adventure, and these include:
1. Dress Professionally
Dressing appropriately shows that you take your role seriously and are committed to making a good impression. In particular, internships in tokyo, like in many other places, business attire is generally more formal.
A good rule of thumb is to opt for clean, well-fitted clothing that is not too revealing or provocative. For men, a conservative suit in dark colors such as navy or charcoal is often a safe choice. While for women, a modest and well-tailored dress or a blouse paired with a skirt or dress pants is suitable.
Remember, it’s always a good idea to observe what others in the workplace are wearing and adjust your attire accordingly.
2. Always Arrive on Time
Punctuality is highly valued in the workplace, and being consistently on time demonstrates that you take your role seriously. To ensure you arrive on time, plan your daily commute carefully. Consider factors such as traffic conditions, public transportation schedules, and potential delays.
It’s a good idea to give yourself some buffer time, especially during the first few days of your internship when you might still familiarize yourself with the route.
3. Be Proactive
Instead of waiting for tasks to be assigned to you, being proactive means actively seeking opportunities to take on new responsibilities and make a positive impact. Take the initiative to ask if there are any additional tasks or projects you can assist with. Express your interest in learning more about different aspects of the company and be open to taking on challenging assignments.
Also, anticipate the needs of your team and find ways to be helpful. Stay attentive during meetings and listen to discussions about ongoing projects. If you notice a gap or a potential area where you can contribute, don’t hesitate to propose your ideas and solutions.
4. Asking Questions as Needed
Asking questions is a proactive way to seek clarification, gather information, and ensure you’re on the right track with your tasks and projects. When asking questions, be attentive and respectful of the other person’s time.
If your supervisor or a colleague is busy or in the middle of a task, wait for an appropriate moment to approach them. You can ask if it’s a good time to talk, or if not, schedule a time when they will be available for a discussion.
5. Be Respectful to Your Colleagues and Superiors
Respecting your colleagues and superiors create a positive and harmonious work environment and reflects your professionalism and maturity as an intern. Remember, treat everyone with kindness and consideration. Use polite language and gestures, such as “please” and “thank you.”
Also, listen actively and attentively when your colleagues and superiors are speaking. Avoid interrupting them and give them your full attention. This shows that you value their input and opinions, and it promotes effective communication within the team.
The Don’ts in Internship
During your internship, it’s equally important to be aware of certain things to avoid, and these include:
1. Frequent Unexcused Absences
Consistency and reliability are highly valued in any workplace. When you frequently miss work without a valid reason, it can be perceived as lacking dedication and professionalism. This behavior may lead to strained relationships with your colleagues and superiors and impact your chances of securing a positive reference for future opportunities.
In that case, it’s crucial to notify your supervisor or the appropriate person in the company as soon as possible. Communicate the reason for your absence and provide an estimated timeframe for your return. Proactively informing others shows respect for their time and helps the team plan accordingly.
2. Displaying a Pessimistic Attitude
A pessimistic attitude can affect your motivation and productivity. It may lead to a lack of enthusiasm in completing tasks and taking on new challenges. Instead, try to maintain a proactive and can-do mindset. Embrace new opportunities with an open mind, and view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow.
3. Gossiping During Office Hours
Gossiping during office hours can be perceived as unprofessional and disrespectful. It may lead to colleagues feeling uncomfortable or distrusting you, and it can damage your working relationships. It’s important to remember that the workplace is a professional setting, and conversations should focus on work-related topics and constructive discussions.
To avoid getting involved in gossip, redirect conversations that veer into negative or inappropriate territory. Politely steer the discussion back to work-related topics or find ways to contribute positively.
4. Violating Company Confidentiality
During your internship, you may encounter confidential information, such as proprietary data, financial details, upcoming projects, or personal information about colleagues or clients. Respecting company confidentiality demonstrates your professionalism and integrity. It shows you can be trusted with sensitive information and take your responsibilities seriously.
However, breaching confidentiality can lead to legal issues for you and the company, damaging the company’s reputation and relationships with clients or partners.
5. Ignoring Instructions
Instructions your supervisor or colleagues provide are essential for understanding your tasks, responsibilities, and goals. Ignoring this can result in incomplete or incorrect work, which may require time-consuming revisions or cause delays in project timelines.
To avoid ignoring instructions, actively listen when they are given to you. Take notes if necessary to remember the key points and details. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you’re uncertain about any part of the instructions. Seeking clarity shows your commitment to doing the task correctly and your willingness to learn.
Always Leave an Impression that Last
In conclusion, your impact during your internship can extend far beyond its duration. As you move forward, carry the valuable lessons learned during this internship. Let your passion and dedication be the driving force in leaving a positive and lasting mark on every opportunity that comes your way.
