Public Relations: Kickstart your Career with an Internship
Kristin Kelly – Account Supervisor
There has been a recent debate in some states about the rise (and possible fall) and legality of unpaid internships. I understand both sides of the discussion. Whether one agrees or disagrees with unpaid internships, I don’t think there is any question they are a fundamental and a necessary starting point for almost any career.
My first public relations job was a direct result of my college internship, and for the nearly two years I worked as an intern and was fortunate to have a great mentor and learn the day-to-day staple skills that cannot be taught in a class or in a textbook. By the time I graduated, I was ready to take on more responsibility and had a similar PR knowledge base of my colleagues who were already one or two years out of college.
I applaud colleges and universities who make internships a requirement for graduation as well as those who take the initiative to gain early experience in a certain field. With the slowing job market, internships are becoming more competitive, and employers tend to dismiss resumes which do not list at least one or two.
FWV has an impressive internship program and is currently interviewing candidates for the summer semester. In my five years with FWV, I have seen dozens of interns come through our doors, and many have gone on to enjoy successful PR careers across the country as well as with FWV.
Here are a few tips and thoughts to help ensure a successful internship:
- Treat it like your first job – Whether it’s with a PR agency, law firm or non-profit, your internship is one of the most important stepping stones in creating a long-term profession for yourself. Remember, your supervisor is constantly evaluating you and assessing your work, just like any other employee.
- Take initiative – This will get you noticed more than anything. If you find that you have finished the task(s) you’ve been given, ask for additional assignments or offer to help other interns or employees with other projects. It’s never a good thing to be caught at your desk checking status updates on Facebook, the 2010 college football schedule or the sale section on jcrew.com.
- Dress for success – No need to go on a shopping spree at Ann Taylor or Joseph A. Banks, but look the part of a professional. Businesses have clients and meetings in the office daily, and interns are a reflection of the company just as much as the full-time employees.
- We’ve Done It All – Copies? Stuffing envelopes? Absolutely. Our internship days are long gone, but you can always find us at the copier, setting up an assembly line for a media mailing or ordering lunch for a client meeting. Although you may not be sitting in on high-profile meeting or traveling for a client event as an intern, your internship is often a realistic picture of what you can expect in a job. Getting a more concrete idea can help you decide if you’re interested in further pursuing a career in the business or industry.
- Communicate – Make sure to keep the communication lines open with your internship supervisor. If you are interested in writing more press releases, just ask. If your goal is to expand your portfolio to include more media placements, then tell him or her. Your supervisors are your mentors and they want your internship experience to be valuable and meaningful.