LIFESTYLE 7 years ago

How I Turned My Internship Into a Job

Hey, everyone! I’m Hannah! You might recognize me from that video where Chriselle styled me (see it here) or from occasionally popping up on Chriselle’s IG (like here and here)! I’m the Editorial Editor for The Chriselle Factor, so basically, I take care of everything on the backend of the blog to make sure you get to see all the amazing content the #CINCteam works so hard to bring you!

A few years ago, I started working at The Chriselle Factor as an intern and through blood (seriously, ask me about the pink IKEA vase) sweat, tears, hard work and lots of coffee, I turned my internship into a part-time job and then eventually into my full-time job. So you can only imagine how excited I was when Chriselle asked me to start contributing to the blog! For my first post, I wanted to talk to you guys about something very near and dear to my heart: how I turned my internship into my full-time job. Keep scrolling to read my tips!

1. Grin and Bear It

No matter where you end up interning, you’re going to have to do things that you might not want to do. Throw out the trash, steam clothes, pick up lunch, coffee runs, refill parking meters, etc. My advice? Grin and bare it. It’s not glamorous, but if you can do menial tasks with a million dollar smile, people will notice.

2. Speak Up

At The Chriselle Factor, I was lucky enough to be a part of a small team, so I was able to sit in on and contribute to some content meetings. Being able to have a creative voice and not just be ‘the intern’ was a great way for everyone to get to know me and to prove what I could do. If you’re interning somewhere where that’s not possible, still be sure to make yourself known! It’s so easy to fall through the cracks. Try to get to know and network with as many people as possible!

3. Put in 110%

If you can see yourself working there someday, prove that you want it. That’s not to say that you shouldn’t give it your all no matter where you are, but you know what I mean. Get there on time (or early), stay a little later, and if you know something needs to be done do it before you’re asked. In the same breath, I’ve had internships that I haven’t loved and that’s okay too, just so long as you’re learning.

4. Just Ask

Again, I was lucky enough to be a part of a small team, so when it came time to have the “job talk” I literally asked Laura in the elevator! But if you know it’s time, just ask. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. I did, and it was the best decision I ever made. If the company you’re interning at isn’t hiring at the time, don’t get discouraged! Just like relationships, there’s no such thing as the right person at the wrong time. The right job is still out there; you just haven’t found it yet!

I’ve been working full-time at The Chriselle Factor for over a year now and every day I’m thankful to be doing something I love with the people I love. And now even more excited to be able to write for you all! So be sure to keep your eyes peeled for my next post!

x Hannah

Credits:

Photography by Karla Ticas