Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Transitions: Intern to Employee

Among the rest of my classmates, I intern in the city two days a week. Thus far into this semester, I have liked my internship. I feel as though I am learning a lot, the people I work for are fairly patient people who suffer my many questions, and until recently I pretty much was introduced to something new/new project every week. Obviously it has been on my mind lately, especially with graduation around the corner, is this somewhere I could see myself working? Do I want to stay in this area of public relations? Would they consider hiring me?

Yesterday they started interviewing for two separate positions, as best as I can tell because they haven't spoken to me about it other than to say they were having several people coming in for the next couple of days for interviews. I must admitt, I was a little taken back to hear that they were interviewing and didn't speak to me, their intern, about it. It is true that one of the positions requries a little more experience than I have, but I obviously want to speak with them and find out what is going on and why I wasn't spoken to about upcoming positions, whether it be my experience, lack of interest, etc. But here is my question to you:

Do I press the subject if I am not sure this is somewhere I want to be working?

Like I said, I have liked it so far, and could see myself working here. I am not positive that this would be my first pick place, but beggers can't be choosers. Do I pass up on this opportunity, well potential opportunity assuming they didn't tell me because they believe I am uninterested, or do I go after it?

We are all going after jobs, looking for jobs, thinking about where we want to work, or have maybe even been offered a job by places we are interning now. I felt that this was an appropriate post for us Seniors and a relevant topic. What would you do?

5 comments:

  1. Amanda, it's Amanda:)

    Okay, so I can absolutely relate to this post 100%. I went through the same thing at my company that I interned for, it is the hardest thing to ask when you want something at a company that you are not a big deal to, but I say go for it. If you don't make it heard that you like the place, and that you can see yourself working there, then it's your loss. I opened my mouth to my boss, and explained I know you have to hire, and do what you have to do, but I am so interested in the position and that's why Im interning here, to not only gain experience but possibly work for your company. Don't turn it into a big deal, but definitely say something.:) good luck

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  2. Your entry is like the story of my life. And I know that we are not the only ones in this boat.

    My suggestion would be to arrange a meeting with the supervisor and calmly say something like:

    "I am graduating in May and looking into job opportunities for post-graduation. I would like an assessment of my work so far to see if I am qualified...blah blah blah"

    Being upfront with your advisor is all I can suggest because the thought had to have crossed their mind and they do respond to initiative and confidence. If they do not know your situation, make it apparent. I am sure you are excelling at your place, so if I were them, I would consider hiring you. :)

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  3. This current area of our lives is full of uncertainty. All of us are totally unaware of what the future holds for us after we graduate this coming May. There are two questions that constantly ring in our heads during this tumultuous time; is PR what I want to do? And where in the hell will I be working? Chances are that none of us will find a job e truly thrive and thoroughly enjoy for the next few years. As uncertain as our futures are the next few years will be an exciting experience filled with long hours and hard work, and eventually we will all find a place to work in which we fill at home.

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  4. I actually did this yesterday. I had a meeting with my supervisor and they told me to reapply closer to my graduation date.

    I agree with Alex- have the meeting, let them know you are available and see what they say.

    Can't hurt! Good luck!

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  5. I agree with everything that everyone has said. It is important to speak your mind because being assertive is desirable in an employee. You should also never assume anything because you never really know until you ask. I would ask because there is nothing to lose. There is a perfect job for all of us, so just keep on going. (This advice keeps me sane when I feel like freaking out)

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