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03 Mar, 2017

5 Things You Can Do To Survive Your First International Internship

International internship may be your first step to get your dream job, as it will provide you with solid work experience and industry knowledge. However, it is a vastly different environment compared to local workplace. To ensure that you survive your first international internship, you need to maintain an excellent workplace habits and a high standard of professional output. So, if you are interested to start an international internship, here are some advices to guarantee your survival.

 

Do Communicate, but Avoid Sensitive Topics

International workplace environments tend to be more direct compared to Indonesian workplace. Moreover, you will meet many co-workers from different cultures with many diverse customs. Therefore, you will have to face the complexity of having co-workers who communicate in ways that are greatly different from your own. To avoid having any misunderstanding, it is important for you to have good communication skills during your international internship. Also, be sure to avoid sensitive topics for discussion, such as religion, marital status, or even ages, as these topics could easily offend someone.

 

Take Time to Socialize

During your first international internship, remember that meeting people and networking are an important part of the equation of your experience. Try to spend some personal time with your co-workers, as this is the best way to learn more about the local language and culture. Do not let nervousness overtake you, just say hi to your co-workers and ask them how their day went. They will definitely appreciate your effort.

 

Manage a Well-Organized To-Do List

 

When your managers ask you to do something, they will want to see that you understand and accomplish the task. It is essential to write down the tasks and show them that you listen carefully to their instruction. Also, this will make sure that you will not forget the tasks that they give, especially when you are managing several various projects at the same time. Always make sure that you manage a clear and well-organized to-do list. This will definitely make it easier for you to organize and prioritize important tasks for organizing various projects.

 

Make Sure that You Pay Close Attention to Your Language

 

For all your projects, whether they are big or small, make sure that you pay attention to your language. It is best to stay formal, unless you are in a more relaxed environment. Pay close attention to your grammar and words structure when you are writing reports, emails, and letters. Try to always reread them before you send them out and make sure that there are no mistyped words. Also, always answer the phone politely and learn how to make effective phone calls. Some tips to make effective phone calls: write down the points that you want to make and the specific outcome that you want to achieve. Then, use them as a guideline when you are talking on the phone.

 

Expect Problems

International internships are fraught with a series of small and large challenges. For example, the projects that you are given may be very tedious and also be emotionally and physically draining. However, expect them and do not be easily discouraged. Stop analyzing work problems solely in terms of how you are affected and start looking at the bigger picture. Those boring and draining jobs might actually be essential to the whole process of the company!

International internships can provide fascinating and unique professional experiences, which might not be experienced locally. It is also an excellent way of launching your international career, as it could lead to an offer of paid employment. If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Bright Internships are always ready to help you. We wish you the best of luck in your first international internship.