Internships have become a staple feature of graduate CVs: 36% of graduate vacancies for leading employers in 2013 will be filled by applicants who've already worked for an organisation as an undergraduate. That said, although they can do wonders for your job prospects, many internships have come under fire for exploiting workers.
Last month, it was reported that HMRC is investigating 100 companies for using unpaid staff, while the campaign group Intern Aware is pushing for improved working rights for interns. Although organisations are allowed to offer unpaid work experience, it's illegal for them not to pay wages if the work amounts to a job – for instance, if tasks and working hours are set.
But while the debate over internships continues, their value in job applications shows no sign of subsiding. So what can you do to find a worthwhile, paid internship and maximise your chances of getting a good job from it?
Before accepting a placement, you should research the organisation carefully. Check it out online: what sort of reputation does it have among staff and customers or service-users? Look at its website and annual report, and search for news about the organisation or its directors. Can you find someone who has already done an internship there to give you some insight? You could even use sites like duedil.com to find out about the company's financial strength.
If you know who you will be working with, look at their social footprint, particularly their LinkedIn or Twitter profiles. What groups do they belong to and where have they worked in the past? If social media doesn't reveal many insights, try your personal connections – do you know anyone who might be able to help you?
If you accept an offer for an internship placement, it's important to make the most of your time at the company. It's not rocket science: companies recruit people who do the job well and who are pleasant to be around. Show willing whenever you are asked to do something, but don't be obsequious – if you allow yourself to be pushed around too easily you won't win respect.
Build relationships with people: smile, be polite and greet everyone, but don't be too pushy. If you're invited, go for drinks with your colleagues and, if you're not, ask politely if you can join them. Above all, stay busy. If you have nothing to do, ask if there's anything you can help with. Don't sit around and wait to be given tasks.
If things aren't working out then don't keep it to yourself. It may be called an internship, but you should treat it seriously, so only walk away if you're absolutely certain it's the right thing to do, or else it may look unprofessional. But equally, you shouldn't put yourself in a position where you're being taken advantage of, and you should always make sure your pay and working rights fall within the law. If you have concerns while you're doing your placement, ask for a meeting with your line manager, or someone more senior if appropriate, and tell them what's troubling you. Be firm and stay calm, but don't exaggerate.
The internship system has its faults, but it also has the potential to help you set off on a career path that is right for you.
Harry Freedman is a career coach and founder of the Career Advice Centre.
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