Interns, Take Note | Communication Matters, Especially in the Communications Industry

Interns, Take Note | Communication Matters, Especially in the Communications Industry

Yes, it’s a bit of a moan, but it’s also some very considered advice for interns approaching potential mentors and employers.

So, sit up, take note (read to learn), and then activate.

With luck, your success rate will increase.

Some may say to me, “OK, boomer”, which I am certainly not!

I just have minimum expectations from a university-educated student which are extremely realistic (and which Universities claim to instill in their graduates).

What I am is an employer, and a communications specialist.

What you are is a communications student and (potentially) graduate.

What that tells me is you should have mastered basic communications and etiquette by the time you approach an internship or employability! This is not an unreasonable expectation – based on prior experience of your classroom colleagues

“Hi there!” is not an acceptable email introduction, especially when you know the person’s name. That is just disrespectful. [In fact, on par with spelling the person’s name wrong, when you have it right in front of you].

These two words followed with no line spacing, just directly into a half-assed sentence demonstrates that you know how to write a WhatsApp message to a ‘friend’, but certainly illustrates that you have no idea how to communicate professionally to a potential employer in the communications or marketing industry – or in many industries for that matter.

First approaches always have to have an element of formality and convention to them. I advocate this until the person is comfortable with you, and that you should always take your social cues from the potential boss, rather than initiate some form of “casual friendship chat” with someone that really isn’t your friend.

Finishing an email with “Thanks :), <no name>” also says a lot (I only know your name from the email address). You haven’t built up a rapport with the recipient yet to use emojis, and its common courtesy to sign off with your actual name.

I don’t think that’s too hard as ask.

Problem is, this isn’t the first time. It’s common place. I would understand from a 17 year old Diploma student, but not from an early 20’s third year University student. And definitely not from a student who claims in their CV to be a “competent communicator” and someone who enjoys “the people connection”.  

So, go ahead and call me a boomer. I don’t care.

It’s your loss.

Your loss to learn from someone who works in a niche industry, who can train you for all circumstances; but someone who expects certain minimum standards and skills before you approach me.

I hire based on first impressions, not interviews. Gut feel means a lot to me, and my gut tells me you don’t have the maturity to handle yourself in our industry yet. Perhaps, come back in a year or so when you have developed etiquette.

So, my advice – for approaching me, or anyone who you are hoping to work for/with – keep it simple, keep it professional, keep it polite, and keep it ‘business’.