Whether you are advising a summer intern or a family member, this advice will serve that young person well.
Come early. Arrive early to work, to meetings, to conference calls and company outings.
Know what's expected of you. Talk to your boss and ask what you should be doing. Ask for a set of guidelines and expectations, say career counselors for internships at Stanford University.
Listen to casual talk. The Intern Group recommends stopping by the break room and hearing casual conversations in order to learn more about the business. Don't be too shy to say "hello" if the boss stops by.
Ask for more work. Don't be discouraged if you are still running errands and making copies. Managers may consider expanding interns' work, but not unless they ask for more to do.
Fit in. Instead of trying to show off your skills, just be reliable and consistent. Get along well with everyone. Bosses are looking for someone who fits in.
Keep a log of everything you do. It will help your boss write a letter of recommendation for a future resume.
Be involved. Don't turn down any opportunity. Play with a sports team, help with the picnic, go out for coffee or tag along on a client meeting, say experts at The Wall Street Journal.
