It’s intern and new hire season!
In the next few weeks, 20-24 year old people will begin showing up in corporate offices across America.
I used to supervise interns and new hires. Back when I was much more relatable (aka hip and cool…now I’m all “Hey you kids!”)
A few suggestions, things I used to coach interns and new hires on my teams….share with your children 😉
—never show up to the office with wet hair
—if your shoes require a big toe to wear, they are not office shoes
—learn 1 new thing at every meeting. Not 5, not 20. One. Write down the term and who said it. Ask that person to teach it to you afterward.
—say good morning to everyone when you arrive, say good night to everyone when you leave.
—Dont ignore a ringing phone. Answer it professionally. No “Hello?” Try “Acme Company, this is Jennifer.”
—Speaking of phones…if you need something: call. Do not send an email. Talk to the other person.
—If someone asks what you think, definitely speak up!
—I have seen young people charge laundry service and hotel pet fees to company accounts. Before you travel on the company dime, understand what can be expensed and what can’t.
—Anticipate “real time” feedback from your supervisors and mentors, but look for a formal check-in weekly, at least in the beginning. Expect that you will have improvement opportunities. Everyone does!
For the rest of you “Olds” (wizened supervisors):
Ask these smart-as-heck kids what they think!
Learn about them as people!
Give them a problem and the latitude to solve it. You might be impressed!
And remember: regardless of how experienced / old you are, interns are perpetually 21.
Happy summer!
Merchandise Manager at Nanchang Shunmin Garments
3mogreat activity 👍 we are apparel manufacture and we make these textile products ✌