Business cards will show individuals you come in contact with that you're a young professional, not just an intern. When networking, it is often customary to exchange business cards. Make sure you're prepared ahead of time. Before you arrive at your internship, order business cards. All University of Michigan students can receive 30 business cards for free through the Alumni Association. At the beginning of each semester, the Alumni Association releases information about this program through their e-TrueBlue newsletter. Including your name and pertinent contact information on your card will give these contacts the ability to reach out to you, but don't wait for them to act first! Use the business cards you receive to further your network.
Know What to Expect
Your internship will probably be a lot different than anything you have seen on television or in movies. A lot of times employers will assign small tasks, such as photocopying, filing, and making coffee, to see how well interns follow through and how efficiently they work before offering the interns substantial work. Other times, companies work with sensitive information and can't involve interns in certain tasks or projects. If you are feeling like you won't be able to do the work that you would like at a certain company it might be a good idea to consider interning elsewhere. But always remember, even if your internship isn't exactly what you expected, you're still gaining work experience for your resume and insight into what the field you're working in is like.
Know the Office Dress Code
Make sure that you have a professional wardrobe that will fit with the typical attire in your office. Dressing appropriately indicates to your employer that you take your job seriously and that you are a hard worker.
Some offices require business attire. For women, this dress includes a suit with sensible shoes and conservative hair and make-up. For men, a suit with a classic tie, professional shoes, and well-groomed hair is appropriate.
If your office suggests business casual attire the question of what to wear becomes a bit trickier. Some offices interpret this term a bit more loosely than others, but if you're unsure on the first day it is always best to dress up your outfit rather than dressing it down. For women, business casual dress can include skirts or pants in a variety of fabrics such as corduroy or twill, sweaters, button downs, blouses, and polo shirts, and, once again, sensible shoes. For men, khaki or cotton pants, button downs, polo shirts, and sweaters, belts and leather shoes, and the option of wearing a tie should get the job done.
Some offices will have casual Fridays. This is usually not an excuse to wear your favorite t-shirt or throw on a pair of leggings! Make sure that you maintain a polished and clean look.
Research the Company
Take an interest in the company that you're working for. Sign up for Google alerts that will send you news on the organization on a daily basis. Keep up to date with the programs and projects the company has recently accomplished. Study the work policies of the company and understand what you can and can't share with friends and family about your work. You'll be familiar with the structure of the organization and will feel more at ease on the first day if you research beforehand.