As a millennial, our generation literally has the power to do anything. We can become noticed from a viral video on Facebook or a perfectly picturesque Instagram account. It is so much easier than you think to accomplish far fetched dreams these days. I have had so many people ask me, "How did you land an internship at Good Things Utah?" or " I'm so jealous you are doing that." Here is the secret people, put yourself out there. Believe it or not, I found information on my internship through Instagram. It's crazy and also so wonderful what social media can bring to us these days. I have really kick started my career plan by putting myself out there and here's my rules to become a millennial boss babe.
1. Look for opportunities EVERYWHERE.
Like I said, I found my internship through Instagram. In getting involved with Channel 4, I have had the opportunity to be on TV myself, work the Bachelor/ Bachelorette casting call and walk in a fashion show at City Creek. This happened all because I sent a quick email. There are many other opportunities I have in the works that I have come across from Instagram accounts. Not all career paths can benefit from this, but social media is key. Networking is key. Even if you get shut down, you still put your name out there. From these experiences, you gain connections, references and resume builders.
2. You've got to work your way up.
I've mentioned before that being an intern is really not all that glamorous. I grew up watching Lauren Conrad on The Hills. All internships are not like hopping on a plane to pick up a designer dress in the heart of New York City. At one point in my internship, I had to drive 30 minutes out of my way at 7 am to pick up crescent rolls in the most ghetto Walmart I've ever seen. Mind you, I do not get paid. Disclaimer : You don't get to say no when you are an intern. You nod, smile and say yes no matter how put out or annoyed you may be. You are on the bottom of the totem pole, but I promise it will pay off in 10 years when you are the one that gets to boss interns around.
3. Confidence is key.
This should probably be #1. Throughout most of my teenage years, I struggled with self confidence. I always wanted to be the one no one noticed. I spent so much time trying to fly under the radar. After some self discovery and self realization, I realized how much better my life got after I developed confidence. I used to be afraid to ask someone a question in the store or call someone on the phone. Now, I am the one asking strangers to take pictures for me and striking up a conversation with the cashier in the grocery store. Confidence is the best accessory you could ever wear. Even if you have no idea what you are doing (me most of the time), confidence gets you so far.
4. Research, Research, Research.
Google. Google is your best friend. When getting into a career, business or company, make sure you research. Research who is the head haunch. Who should you be smiling at in the elevator? Before any interview, I Facebook stalk. I even Facebook stalk my professors. Get educated. Gain knowledge so you know what you are getting yourself into. You are more likely to gain approval and make people like you when you know what you're talking about.
5. Your image matters more than you think.
In the age of Facebook, Twitter and Instagram you can find out almost everything you want to know about someone with just one click of a button. Trust me, when I got my roommate assignment email for my apartment I immediately hop on Facebook like I work for the freakin CIA. My tip is be professional. Don't ever put anything on social media that you wouldn't want an employer to see. It is kind of a no brainer, but you would be surprised. Always dress appropriately as well. I am all about fashion, but sometimes the trendy fashion is not appropriate for the office. Always think classy.
6. Never ever ever ever ever be late.
If there is one thing I learned from being an intern, is that being late is not tolerated. I am a very on time person. I consider on time as being 10 or 15 minutes early. It really makes a lasting impression. My tip for making sure you are on time: If you have to be there at 8:00 am, tell yourself you have to be there at 7:45 am or you will be late. In grain in your mind a time that is earlier than when you have to be there. Don't snooze your alarm. Being on time every single day will give you a gold star almost no matter what.
7. Dreams take work.
One of the most ironic comments I have heard someone make is that they will never work for someone. You literally can't get anywhere unless you start from the bottom. No one is going to scout you out to work for them. If you want to be a part of a company or a business or have a certain career, it is your prerogative. The second I knew what I wanted to do with my professional life, I jumped right in to the opportunity pool. The greater head start you get, the quicker you can make your dreams a reality.
8. Develop relationships with everyone.
Make friends with everyone. Say good morning and hello to everyone you walk by in the morning. Become a face people will remember. It all goes back to networking. If you can maintain relationships and friendships with everyone, it will come back to benefit you in the long run. You never know when you are going to need a job or a letter of recommendation. It's better for them to say, "Oh I remember her, she was always so friendly." than to say "Now who was that again?"
9. Be indispensable.
I read a book during my internship that talked about being a linchpin. A linchpin is defined as a person or a thing vital to an enterprise or an organization. This is what you should strive for. Throughout my internship my motto was " What can I do that will make everyone think, what will we do when she is gone?" You want your boss to be begging for you to stay because that means you made a lasting impression. In order to achieve that goal, you have to be okay with discomfort. One of my favorite quotes from the book I read is, " The road to comfort is crowded and it rarely gets you there. Ironically, it is those who seek discomfort that are able to make a difference and find their footing."
I know you are probably thinking, what does a 19 year old know about careers? Truthfully, not much. I am hoping this post helps out everyone my age who is figuring out what they want to do and how they can do it. This is for anyone who wondered how I landed such an awesome internship. Anyone who dreams of being a boss babe like me, this is for you. Hope it helps!
XO- Sydney Lauren
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