10 Tips for Your First Day on the Job
By Isabelle Redfield
Securing an internship marks the start of an unknown and exciting beginning. After all, you could be asked back to work full-time. No matter what position you’re vying for, it can be all too easy to make a mistake you could have avoided. These are my best tips and tricks I’ve learned after spending three summers working in Washington, D.C.
Perfect your firm handshake and practice good eye contact
Introduce yourself calmly and with a smile. Note how happy you are to be there, don’t interrupt, and thank them when the conversation is over.
Be unusually early
I don’t suggest showing up to the office door weirdly early, but if you’re loitering outside on a bench close by or an adjacent office building lobby for thirty minutes— fine. You want to be relaxed, fresh faced, and punctual for your first day. Practice your commute and note your timing before your first day if you’re able to. Last summer, before the first day of my internship, I remember visiting the Renwick Gallery across the street and clearing my head and saying a prayer to put my best foot forward in the coming months.
Wear what you feel best in, and ALWAYS plan the night before
First impressions are everything. I cannot stress enough the importance of dressing appropriately as a woman in the office. This topic is discussed elsewhere on The Conservateur. Select professional wear that showcases you in your best light. Whether it’s color, fit, or pants vs. dress, wear your favorites pieces throughout the first week and rotate your wardrobe from there. When you look good, you feel good— and people absolutely notice the little efforts you make to look polished. Likewise, your mornings will be busy so it’s always best to brainstorm what you’ll wear tomorrow based on the weather, an upcoming meeting, presentation, or a happy hour you have planned. Think ahead to avoid being late.
If you’re emailing, be direct
In one of my business seminars this semester we were talking about writing professional emails and the teacher asked the class to share an example of a mistake they’ve made in this department. I knew mine immediately: oversharing and over explaining why I needed to leave the office early one afternoon. I wrote this long, drawn out email, asking for permission and my supervisor came back with less than a sentence, “Of course.” Just save it. If someone needs to discuss a situation with you further, they’ll most likely come to you in person. Emails should be succinct. Interns are humans too, and the moon does not need to be falling from the sky for you to be able to leave early one or two afternoons. Ask for what you need and if you get a no, there is probably a good reason.
Exchange numbers with your fellow interns
No, not like that. You’re likely to miss a direction here and there. You need to work together throughout your internship, and you’ll be able to save each other from some sort of embarrassment by communicating as needed. BE NICE, even if you’re in competition with them for a return offer. However, keep it professional— especially in group chats.
Throw an extra pair of flats and or sneakers in your bag
You’re likely to be walking around, climbing stairs, and taking tours. If you insist on keeping your heels on throughout the day, you’ll want the flats or sneakers for your commute home. Throw some band aids in, too.
For those interning in D.C., an umbrella should stay in your bag
Your umbrella should be like your keys, phone, wallet— you don’t leave for a work day without it. D.C. weather changes on a dime. Your umbrella should travel in your bag with you permanently, not added in on a day by day basis. Girls can get away with a Mary Poppins tote of sorts, so determine your staple items and take solace in unforeseen situations knowing you have what you need.
Pack some easy snacks and eat a big breakfast
Seriously. I know we all like to feel light on our feet and not weighed down by a huge meal, but you’ll be overloaded with information and meeting new people all day. You also will not be in charge of your schedule. The last thing you want is to be light headed, distracted, or hear your stomach rumbling while someone is welcoming you.
Costume jewelry, especially earrings, is a no
Personally, I think those special baubles you have lying around that you never get to wear really should not enter the office. Instead of trying to match your earrings to your pant color, keep it simple. Wear your simple everyday pieces— Pearl studs, baby gold hoops, your watch, and go easy on the bracelets and rings. This goes for nail polish too: white, ballet slippers, even a pale lilac... Save the statement manicure for your friends who will actually appreciate it.
Ask yourself if the everyday bag you’ve chosen is appropriate
If your mother happens to give you her old and very obviously designer bag, ask yourself if it’s appropriate to be carrying it into the office everyday. In many cases it might be, and in others it might not be. There’s no shame in having nice things, but ask yourself if it sends the right message as an intern. It’s better to be understated than overstated, calling attention to your sharp mind and not what you own. An unmarked tote works just the same as a Never Full.
Lastly...
If you’re feeling intimidated or under-qualified at any point throughout your internship, stay eager and interested to learn. When I walked into the office on my first day last summer, there weren’t many tasks for me to immediately complete— the interns had to earn the trust of each individual before being given assignments. In an office of all men, I noticed how neglected the fish tank had been. So on my first day, instead of aimlessly sitting around for directions I wasn’t going to get, I asked if I could be of help in cleaning the fish tank. A silly story, but no task should be beneath you. Always be willing and able to help however you can.
Photo via @maxineaviva
ISABELLEREDFIELD
