You have the opportunity to learn about complete business operations by doing internships in a startup than in large organizations where you will specialize in one area. That vast knowledge you will receive in a startup will fuel your success in the later days of your career.
An intern aids that quest to work with the best companies in your expertise at a startup.
There are other reasons to intern at a startup. This article will discuss some of the reasons to intern at a startup and the simple steps to succeed in a startup internship.
Table of Contents
Why Should you Intern at a Startup?
More chances of getting the internship
Since not many people consider applying for an internship at a startup, you’ll already have less competition, and securing the position will be higher. This is not because startups take on people with little or no experience but because many students feel that their internship will be of more excellent value when done with an established company.
More Responsibility
The functions of an intern are already stipulated in large companies. In most companies, menial jobs like running errands can be added to your job description.
However, all hands should be on deck in a startup, as time and resources are extremely valuable, meaning there’s a high chance you’ll be working on real projects from day one.
You, Will, Learn How Organizations Work
At startups, interns are always at the forefront of the action and experience virtually every aspect of business administration. So that the company does, they are part of the ideation processes that give rise to new ideas.
This is because startups encourage employees to share ideas and feedback. Therefore interns will be part of meaningful discussions that can improve the company.
But this is not possible when you intern in a large organization. Moreover, it limits your exposure to particular business functions that you are set up to perform since there are thousands of employees.
More Comments from Superiors
Did you know that startups give the best reactions?
Since you would have done a lot of homework, they would be free and open to providing constructive and valuable feedback vital to your success in that career.
It’s also easier to approach your superior and ask for feedback in a startup as an intern than in a big company where there are a lot of procedures.
This is because you will be working more closely with senior colleagues in a new company and will be able to build a better relationship with them.
Informal Hiring Experience
This does not mean an informal or unprofessional hiring process.
Startups tend to be more flexible in their hiring process. As a result, some of those rigorous application and interview processes, and stringent academic requirements, are cut back at new companies.
They focus more on the intern’s ability to effectively perform specific tasks at the start. Academic qualifications carry over to skills in addition to academics.
Step-By-Step Guide to a Successful Startup Internship
Here are the guidelines for interning and being successful in a startup company.
Create a Timetable and Schedule to Intern at a Startup
Before you can intern at a startup, you need to clear your schedule and create time for the internship. 1-3 months is ideal for it.
However, it’s entirely possible if you still want to intern while you have classes. As long as you manage your time and find a flexible and understanding company, you can start your internship.
Create A List of Startups you Want to Apply to
The second step is to create a list of companies you can apply to.
To do this correctly, create two types of lists; startups that are actively hiring interns and startups that are not hiring but you are very interested in working for.
Look for companies that are actively hiring through job boards. Try job platforms like Kalibrr.com and Jobstreet.
Second, you can join your university’s work and internship Facebook groups. LinkedIn is currently the best platform to search for a job.
3 Submit Apps only to Industries you are Passionate about
After you’ve create a shortlist of startup companies, you can apply for internships, narrow that list down to industries you’re interest in and have some background in. This background can be an academic, certificate, previous work experience, passion or your tastes.
Although tech startups are trendy, they are not the only ones. Research your sector of choice and search for internship opportunities from there.
What is the Company Culture Like?
Asking questions about the company culture can help you prepare for running the startup. While this will not guarantee your successful internships, it will help you prepare properly. You will also understand the company’s expectations of employees and interns.
Conclusion
The difference between a startup and a corporation is your work environment and the type of work you can do. This must be well understood by interns who wish to work in a startup.
Whether your career goals are helping a business grow from the bottom up, learning all about business operations, or even starting your own business, interning at a startup company will give you all the experience you need.