Business Internship
1. Business Internship
This guide contains tips and resources to make your internship a success. Remember to consult your course co-ordinator or internship mentor with any specific questions.
2. Before your internship
- Spend some time exploring the company's website prior to starting your internship.
- Reflect on what you want to gain from this internship.
- Remember to ask your mentor if you have any questions.
3. Have a look at these UniSA webpages on internships
- UniSA Business Internship ProgramView program details, enrolment dates, placement requirements, and FAQs
- Internships & PlacementsThis page from Career Services has information on sourcing and applying for Internships and Placements, as well as their benefits
4. What to keep in mind during your internship
Be punctual
Always be on time. In the mornings, to meetings, returning from breaks. If you are in a situation where you are running late let your supervisor know.
Be flexible
Interns may be required to work on many different tasks and in different areas depending what is happening at the company during your internship.
Have a good attitude
Everyone loves to work with someone who is friendly, positive, engaged and interested and walks in the door with a smile.
Ask questions and make notes
This shows you are engaged and interested. This will will also help when it comes time to writing your report and for updating your CV.
Network
They are working in the business industry and can provide a wealth of insight and advice.
Show appreciation
At the end of your internship express appreciation for the opportunity you have had to work with them, and enjoy yourself!
5. Business skills
Watch these videos to improve your business skills:
From the LinkedIn Learning course 'Developing your professional image in a new job'
From the LinkedIn Learning course 'Job skills: Learning the basics'
Note: You must be logged in to access the LinkedIn Learning courses through the institutional license.
6. Communication skills
Watch this video (58 min) on communication:
7. Articles on business skills
Read these short articles to improve your business skills:
- Succeed in New Situations, Harvard Business Review
- Learn to Love Networking, Harvard Business Review
- Five Hacks to Improve Your Workplace Communication Skills, Forbes
- 16 Tips for Being A Successful Professional Millennial (Or Any Age), Forbes
- 21 Ways to Make the Most of your Internship, HuffPost
8. Explore the UniSA Enterprise Skills
Check out UniSA's Enterprise Skills: A range of resources to develop enterprise skills including, self management, problem solving, teamwork, ethical awareness, communication and international perspective.
9. What are the benefits of an internship?
Insight
You will gain valuable industry exposure and insight. You will see first hand different roles, functions, work and projects that people in the business sector are involved in. An internship can help you shape your future career goals and areas of interest.
Experience
You will get hands on experience working in a professional environment and developing your professional skills. You will be able to apply your knowledge and skills in a real life work environment.
Looks great on your CV
Employees place high value on work experience. Take note of the work you perform during your internship so you can record it on your CV. If successful in your placement you may be able to ask for a reference for future jobs you apply for.
Building contacts
A fantastic opportunity to meet people already working in business the industry and start making contacts.
Watch this video (2 min 45 sec) from the University of Derby about the importance of internships.