What do you do if you want to maximize the benefits of virtual internships?

Virtual means, there will be more barriers to communications. So make sure you are always communicating on time as an intern via email or any other platform that allows exchange of information like slack. Because even if you arent connecting in person your small gestures of timely and precise communication, done repeatedly, sends the message that you are dependable, sincere and organised.

To maximize a virtual internship, you should have excellent time management and organization skills and be a self-starter. Most times, your supervisor will give you weekly tasks to complete in the allotted time given, and your job is to complete those tasks. As the intern, make sure you establish clear expectations, communicate, and have designated supervision time to meet with your supervisor and colleagues for questions, team building, and other responsibilities and duties.

Actively seek out opportunities to collaborate with colleagues across different departments or teams, as virtual internships provide unique chances to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and expertise. For example, if you're interning in marketing, consider collaborating with the product development team on a campaign launch strategy, showcasing your ability to work cross-functionally and expand your network within the organization.

In a virtual internship, here are the steps I would take to maximize intern access and benefits. 1) Refer to your offer letter, your recruiter, or company benefits support teams to understand your benefits. 2) Based on the benefit offerings, make a clear list of your personal and professional needs that align with the benefit options. 3) Leverage your internal network and the internal org charts at the company while you have access. Schedule time with alumni that converted into full time positions from the same intern program & draft questions to ask (example: if you could go back in time, which company benefits would you have leveraged as an intern)

Para maximizar los beneficios de las pasantías virtuales: 1. Establece metas claras y específicas para lo que quieres lograr durante la pasantía, como adquirir habilidades específicas o construir una red profesional. 2. Participa activamente y busca oportunidades para aprender y contribuir, demostrando proactividad y compromiso. 3. Solicita retroalimentación regularmente para mejorar y adaptarte a las expectativas del empleador.

Networking is one of the biggest challenges for virtual workers (intern or not). Find your people. If your manager or someone on your assigned team takes a special interest in your internship, don't be afraid to set up regular meetings to discuss your project, ask questions, and brainstorm. Based on your career ambitions, ask them for recommendations of others who you could meet with. Ask to participate in cross-functional or broader team meetings as well. If you know of other interns, you could have regular meetings with them to discuss your experience and learn from each other. Lastly, don't forget to connect with everyone you meet on LinkedIn to create longer lasting connections following your internship.

Consider how you will 'package' your overall internship experience as a launching pad for your next career move, as evidence of what you have learned and created, and as a part of your professional brand.