Does an unpaid internship get you anywhere?
Dec.25, 2011 in
paid internship
Question by : Does an unpaid internship get you anywhere?
I’m from California, and still in school here finishing my last year. Anyway, I plan on moving to NY after I graduate and working in fashion there. I am willing to take on anything. and since it’s nearly impossible to jump into a job in this economy without some kind of internship, i’m willing to do 3 months unpaid. But will it actually get me anywhere, because I also heard that most companies now, just take advantage of free labor from interns with no intention of hiring for entry level positions.
Best answer:
Answer by MadMan
I think that you understand the situation exactly.
Add your own answer in the comments!
December 25th, 2011 at 8:39 pm
You want the firm where you intern to grow seriously motivated to find a place for you on their payroll, or to appreciate your abilities and be willing to recommend you to another firm.
An internship gives you an opportunity to prove that you are talented and indispensable. The time lets you make valuable contacts with others in the industry, so always introduce yourself by first and last name, look and act professionally, and let people know you are taking this profession seriously.
If your approach is that you aren’t getting paid so don’t have to do your best work, that it won’t matter if you are late, or that the firm is taking advantage – you are not going to get the most out of the opportunity.
Surprise them, wow them, do the kind of work that benefits them well beyond their expectations.
Good Luck!
December 25th, 2011 at 9:32 pm
Internships get you very far. Just because it is unpaid means nothing. You get on the job experience, hands on. It is something that you can put on your resume, so it looks good that you have experience plus a college degree. It is not really free labor, because while the company pays you nothing you are learning. It is a win win situation.
December 25th, 2011 at 9:49 pm
An unpaid internship will get you valuable work experience and a good recommendation provided you work hard and make good relationships with the people you meet. In some cases an internship will lead to job. I think that 3 months is too short for an internship. I understand that you do not want to provide a company with free labor, but many will not want to invest in you if you only agree to 3 months on the job. Would you rather be searching for months trying to find an opening somewhere or doing an internship, learning something new and gaining work experience? You may be willing to take on anything once you move to NY, however there honestly is not much opportunity at this time. Consider all your options carefully before the move.
December 25th, 2011 at 10:06 pm
I worked unpaid at my current job for 3 months. That was 5 years ago, and I have been promoted 3 times since. It can pay off.