In our previous post, we discussed some strategies to standing out and maximizing your internship experience. Indeed, many students try hard and excel doing the work required by employers but unfortunately give little thought to the entry into or exit from those internships — which are vitally important and can actually overshadow the work that was accomplished in between. Thus, even if you had an overwhelmingly positive internship for the first two months, it is very important to end strong and exit gracefully by saying the right things and taking the right actions. Here are some ideas:
Exit Gracefully: During the final weeks focus on taking actions to strengthen friendships and build your network. Visit people around the office, look everyone in the eyes, shake hands and tell them you appreciated the opportunity to learn from them. Follow up with a handwritten thank you note to the people you worked for. Send short emails to those who might be out of the office and you did not get a chance to say goodbye to. You shouldn’t limit yourself to managers and team leaders. Don’t forget to thank the administrative assistant, statistician, graphic designer, etc., or anyone that supported you: these people are often vitally important to an office and might somehow have an influence on hiring. For people who were particularly helpful, you might consider taking them to lunch or giving an inexpensive gift like chocolates. You could very likely see some of these people one day in the future and how you exit will shape a lasting impression.
Exit With Integrity: In the exit interview, accurately represent your accomplishments, strengths, and intentions. Even if it is a competitive situation, trying to ‘close the sale’ by criticizing the work of other interns is not advised because you might seem immature or calculating. Alternatively, praise other interns and make the manager feel that you cannot wait to return and work with such a talented group of peers.
Be Direct: It is important to ask for what you want and make your intentions clear. Make it crystal clear that you intend to return to the company to work. If you want a permanent job, say so and say why. When trying to ‘close the sale’, be straightforward by explaining why there is a good fit between you and the company. You might briefly highlight any contributions you have made during the internship, and then point out the ways you might continue to make a contribution to the organization in the future. Say these words with conviction and sincerity. If you leave without expressing your interest to continue working at the company, the manager may assume that you are indifferent.