5 Tips To Prepare For Your Internship Interview!
Many of our students decide to embark on an internship experience abroad, choosing sunny Spain as their dream destination!
Regardless of whether they’ve already had some work experience before or it’s their first time in the workplace, they often ask us what they can do to prepare for their internship interview or initial meeting with their future supervisor. Here are our top 5 tips to make sure an internship interview goes smoothly.
The first impression always counts!
1. Research the company
This is essential! Take time to research your internship company beforehand, it shows you care about the program and you’re serious about a placement with their company.
Things you can do include: checking out their website, reviewing their online presence, and even seeing if they have a LinkedIn page that you can connect to. If you’re familiar with their objectives and what they’re trying to accomplish, maybe you can think about how you can contribute towards these goals too, and be an asset to the company.
The more research you do on the company, the more knowledge you will acquire to ask more specific questions in the interview phase.
2. Know your goals
Most likely you’ll be asked about your goals, expectations and personal objectives for the placement. That’s why you should go into the interview knowing your goals and what you’d like to gain from the experience.
If you don’t have a clear plan you may end up taking on a position you’re not particularly looking for, or doing tasks not quite related to your field of study. Setting your goals on the table in the first meeting can help to reduce frustrations and misunderstandings down the line, and can make sure your experience is an effective and rewarding one!
Knowing your goals before an internship interview not only helps you make informed decisions about the position but also demonstrates your commitment and enthusiasm to potential employers.
3. Take the initiative
They will definitely ask you if you have any questions, so make sure you have 1 or 2 lined up! This represents a proactive and enthusiastic attitude! Show interest and ask questions about the company. For example, you could ask about the tasks you will be doing, your work schedule, if there is a dress code.
You can also tell them about your academic background and knowledge of the field, if you have any relevant experience, or have worked in this area before. You can also discuss your own personal expectations and interests, for example the career path you are looking for and how this experience can be a gateway to that future. Taking the initiative is key!
4. Practice Common Interview Questions
Be prepared to answer common interview questions.
Here’s a list of some of the most common ones:
- What do you hope to gain from this internship?
- Please explain your background and experience in this field.
- Why do you want to work in this industry?
- What parts of the industry are you particularly interested in?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Clear and concise responses are optimal!
5. Right attitude for the job
Go into your pre-interview/first meeting/first day with a positive attitude. Be ready to assist the company in their project goals while also displaying your skills and knowledge.
Of course, an internship is not always going to be plain sailing. There will be hurdles, maybe some monotonous tasks and possibly a few misunderstandings along the way.
That’s why your attitude is key to your success. Be adaptable, ask questions, be proactive and take initiative, go the extra mile, and really make the most of your experience!
Take these tips on board and make a great first impression ready for your future internship to start off on the right foot!
Here at EUROACE we offer different locations including Valencia, Madrid and Barcelona, and a wide range of sectors. Check them out!
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