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Employers are demanding more & more they rank internships as the second most important quality in a candidate behind communication skills when interviewing.

The more internships, the more it will help you better prepare for the demands of a workplace. You have to bring something else to stay competitive. This is critical if you don't want to find yourself in the interview waiting area sitting next to a person from a more elite school than yours

Internships may lead to letters of recommendation from the employer, and you may even earn academic credit and earn money simultaneously. By participating in an internship you will increase the likelihood of receiving a full-time job offer from the employer. Often, starting salary offers are higher for students with internship experience than to those without experience Individuals that complete internships report a higher satisfaction level with their jobs, compared to those with no internship experience. Several internships will help you to better crystallize your job interests and abilities from contact with professionals, and it will also improve your career decision-making. It provides the possibility to try out a new industry, employer or job. You will also feel an increased sense of responsibility personally and professionally. In terms of networking, you will have increased footprint of your network.Better knowledge of the job market will even motivate you for increased learning, such as pursuit of graduate study. Internships will make you well rounded and help you to develop transferable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving and communication skills.

Following tips to help you make the most of this valuable experience.

Clarify Expectations
Clarify expectations about the internship: both the employers and yours. It is a good idea to agree upon your job responsibilities in writing.

Take advantage of Transition time
At the beginning of your Internship take advantage of transition Time and ask lots of questions. You are not expected to know what is going on right away, but the faster you learn the ups and down of daily life on the job, the better off you'll be.

Performance Feedback
Meet regularly with your supervisor to ensure that both of your expectations are being met. This is a right way to get feedback on your performance and helps to keep you on track with current and future Projects

First impression is everlasting
First impressions are very important, as is maintaining good ones. It is important for you to dress, speak, write, and generally behave like a professional. Shake hands, make eye contact, smile, and be friendly and confident.

Always be a good observer
Be observant and ask questions frequently about appropriate behavior at the work place. Different organizations have different expectations regarding employee behavior and it is important that you learn about and conform to the corporate culture. This can include issues such as appropriate clothing, demeanor with customers, personal phone calls, and where to park your car. If you aren't sure ask first. When in doubt, err on the conservative side.

Communication skills
Focus on your communication skills, both written and verbal. Proofread your written work carefully. When communicating with your coworkers choose respectful, tactful, and professional language at all times.

Be Punctual
Show up to work on time, when you are expected. Call if you are going to be sick or late. Don't be sick or late often. Choose your sick days with care; it will be noticed if you are not at work on important days.

Maintain good Human Relationship with Your Co-workers
Establish good relationships with your coworkers. Be friendly, polite, helpful, and sensitive. It's good to talk with your coworkers and get to know them but beware of gossiping and complaining. Be careful about bringing personal business to work, and be sure that what you do discuss is fit for public consumption.

Be calm and compose
Be easy to work with. Accept assignments without complaint, ask for more work when assignments are completed, and turn out good quality work. Listen carefully to instructions and ask for clarification. Learn to work as a team; be respectful of input from other team members and practice the art of compromising.

Recommendation Letter
When you leave, be sure to ask your supervisor for a letter of recommendation and keep in touch so that you can call upon him/her later when you are in need of a reference. This will also help your supervisor keep you in mind when future opportunities arise.

Source : http://indianinternships.com