So you were lucky to land a great internship that’s offered you the experience you had wanted to kick-start your career. You’re 6 months into your internship and loving what you do, but have you planned on the next 6 months and the months after your internship ends? If not, then read on. The more you know, the more places you’ll go.
There are some things you can do to elevate your career prospects and steps you can take to rise within your chosen career track though. Simple things, but they work!
Learning Doesn’t Stop Here
You’re out of college and learning on the job, but don’t stop right here. Interact with your manager or other employees in different teams to learn about their experiences. How did they get to where they are? What level of education do they have and what’s missing in your portfolio to help you get there or close around.
There any degrees or courses you can take to boost your knowledge and employability? For example, an online Master of Science in Nursing if you are in that field, would up your potential earnings by thousands (34% higher than without the qualification). Not only that but it opens up a whole host of career ladders from where you are now. With one online course, you are making yourself incredibly attractive to potential employers.
Seek advise from your manager or others you have come to trust, on what courses or further education might help you getting hired as a full time employee in that company or in similar field.
If you’ve already earned the higher degrees or can learn through evening extension programs, then jump on to the next advice.
Take on More Responsibility
Everyone’s busy, though some may stop to advise and assist you, many won’t. Not because they don’t want to, but maybe the workload has them already crushed as they try to meet their work deadlines and stay afloat. But there’s your chance. Is there some way you can help them, can you go the extra mile beyond your job? While most people do believe that they should just do the amount they are paid to do, in some cases doing something outside the box can get you noticed in the right ways. Sometimes helping the right people can give you a leg up that you didn’t know was possible. And more than that, you gain trust that will go a long way in your career.
Network and Interact
The more people know you and learn about your work, the more chances you have on being hired in the company. There may be job openings in other division of your company that you might not be aware of. There’s only one way, to ask and to network during lunch or through others. More and more job opening these days are filled through internal references or internal promotions. Another way to interact is to join team building activities. A fun and meaningful way to know others and be a part of the office community.
And then Some
Don’t get drawn into office politics where you can help it. Where there are a lot of people, and some stress, it is all too easy to get dragged into negative conversations. However, as much fun as gossip can be, it can also be hurtful, and there is a fine line between light-hearted banter and someone feeling victimized. Keep a positive outlook on the work you are doing and the people you are working with – even if you don’t like them.
If you happen to make a mistake, small or large and it gets pulled up – own up. It might be really easy to let it slide, or let someone else take the heat – but don’t be that person. Owning up shows respect for your team and integrity. Both of which are traits you should be proud to have.
When the time comes, don’t be scared to ask for what you believe you and your job are worth. Asking for a raise or applying for a new position can feel a little bit awkward, but, if you’ve been performing to a high standard and have good relationships you should go for it. If you get turned down, then ask what you can do to improve.
Good luck! There are a lot of places you can go, when you know how.