On your first day it is likely you will learn too many things to remember without storing the information. Things such as how to log into the computer, where the bathroom is, or how to transfer calls may seem simple enough, but by the end of the day all of these instructions add up. Give yourself some peace of mind by writing down things like passwords and extension numbers so that you aren't confused when you come back for day two.
Remember Names
People love hearing their own name and your co-workers will be flattered if you remember theirs after you learn it for the first time. Try pneumonic devices or connect their name with their job title to make this easier. If you are really struggling with names, most companies have a staff directory you can access and study from.
Ask Questions
Asking questions about the company will make you seem like an interested intern that wants to get invested in the company. Make sure your questions are qualitative; what is the internship coordinator's favorite part about working at the company? How did he or she get involved? Where does he or she see the company in ten years? These kinds of questions will allow the responder to share their passion and ideas for the company with you and will get you even more excited about working there.
Pay Attention to Office Culture
Notice if the company is more rigid or more relaxed. Do people chat often about what they are working on, or do people stay in their cubicles for most of the day? Around what time do people take their lunch breaks? Who arrives early and who stays after close? Are you supposed to arrive at the time a meeting starts, or do most employees get there a few minutes early? Keeping tabs on things like this will help you adapt to the company and understand how work in the office gets accomplished.
Sweat the Small Stuff
Your internship coordinator or boss knows it is your first day and the experience is brand new for you. If you make someone's coffee wrong or forget where the bathroom is, don't worry about it. No one is perfect, and they don't expect perfection on the first day.
Be Afraid to Ask Coworkers About Their Role in the Company
Learn about what your co-workers position within the company entails. This will help you learn more about potential careers and, if so, may lead to the possibility of being involved in a project the employee is working on. Employees will enjoy sharing with you what they work so hard to accomplish - don't worry that they will be mad that you're taking up their time! If they are very busy, they will let you know and will likely set up a better time to talk to you.
Be a Burden to Your Boss By Asking Simple Questions
Your boss and internship coordinator are happy to assist you, but asking questions because you're too lazy to find the answer yourself such as what the address of the company is or what their extension number is will reflect poorly on you. Don't be that intern.
Pay Attention To Office Politics
Don't get wrapped up in the drama at the office. Try to stay away from people who like to get information about personal lives and share it through the office grapevine. You're only going to be interning there for a few months more than likely, and your boss will appreciate it if you avoid involvement in petty office politics.