If you’ve dipped a toe into the world of internships and work experience, you’ll know how confusing it can be.

It’s hard to know whether you’re helping out or being a hindrance; making things easier or getting in the way. Not to mention the fact that for some of us, it’s our very first foray into the world of water coolers and hot desking. What even is a ‘WIP’ and why do people always talk about them?

All the office jargon and itchy suits aside, we just want to put our best foot forward and get noticed. We asked Nitsa Athanassopoulos, Manager of the Careers Centre at the University of Sydney, for the lowdown on how to do a good job.

#1 Prepare, And Be Polite

Do a lot of prep before your first day. Nitsa advises to do your research on the company before you start in case they ask you any questions. Be prepared to answer with your opinion on their work, what you think of certain projects and why you want to undertake an internship with them.

If you have a strong understanding of the company, you should be able to answer these confidently instead of standing there shrugging your shoulders.

Nitsa also reckons you should become familiar with everyone in the workplace. “Introduce yourself and be polite to everyone you meet through the course of the day,” she says.

Kindness sure is powerful.

#2 Be On Time. Always.

There’s nothing more off-putting to busy employers than waiting around for an intern to walk through the door. Nitsa stresses that we should “be on time every day”. In fact, a few minutes earlier wouldn’t hurt, and could actually demonstrate your enthusiasm.

“If you’re running late, make sure you ring the supervisor to let them know,” she says. Better safe than sorry.

#3 Go Above And Beyond

You want to make an impression, but you don’t want to be a pain in the ass. As interns, it’s a fine line.

Nitsa advises to constantly listen, complete tasks accordingly and seek any and all feedback on how to improve. Also, don’t underestimate the power of taking notes and asking questions. Be the biggest teacher’s pet you can be.

“When you’re asked to complete a task,” she says, “Seek feedback later on about whether you could have done the job better or differently.”

“If you have a problem or a question, have a solution ready to propose to your manager. It demonstrates initiative as well as problem-solving ability.”

We also think it’s a way of making the employer’s job easier. If you’re self-sufficient, they don’t have to worry so much about you, and in a time-poor office that’s a huge bonus. 

#4 Take Next Steps Into Your Own Hands

So, how do you know if all your hard work is leading somewhere? What are the signs? You’re not crazy for thinking it’s just like the feeling you get when you go on a few dates and wait for confirmation that you’re official.

“Many companies will initiate a conversation about their graduate program with you before your internship ends,” Nitsa says. “If not, you can send an email to your supervisor or any HR contact thanking them for the internship opportunity and asking if they can let you know if any further employment opportunities come up.”

“In your email include some information about why you are interested in working with them – that is, what appeals to you about working for them now that you know more about the company and have had the opportunity to work with them.”

That’s how to impress a whole bunch of people in a short amount of time.