I love to talk about my experience differently. Therefore, instead of writing a long reflection telling you what I learned from my internship experience, I will give you five tips to successfully be an intern with Team KSA.
These tips are fully based on my own experience during my three months working as a summer intern with KSA. Even though they are personal, I hope it will give you a better sense of what it is like to be a part of the team.
- Never be afraid to speak up
At Team KSA, communication is KEY. Everyone is eager to hear your voice. What you have in your mind is important to them. It can be a very minor idea, and you may think it is ridiculous to bring it up. Do not hide your thoughts from your team members. You may end up being surprised at how your opinions are well-received and transformed into real projects.
There was one time I was sitting with my co-workers to brainstorm for video content about the company that would be published on our website. After moments of hesitation, I finally had the courage to propose we should do an office tour to introduce our workplace in the video. I thought it was too ordinary and unworthy of consideration, but it turned out to be a great way to start the video, as the team was looking for a simple but effective approach to showcase our office on the website.
If you have not had a chance to check out the video, you still can, by clicking on our home page https://www.teamksa.com/!
2. Ask for your co-workers’ feedback
This goes hand in hand with the previous tip because there is no use speaking up and then receiving no response. At Team KSA, it is rare to see people not giving feedback. Everyone is always open for a conversation, and will not hesitate to provide bunches of useful comments you can take away.
This reminds me of the time I asked for Katie’s instruction on my research project. Little did I know the conversation would end up with not only guidelines, but also with various marketing insights and real-life campaigns Katie had to share. At the end of the talk, I felt like I had learned more than just an instruction.
3. Be flexible, and get ready for projects
You may think an intern is only assigned with easy and boring work no one else wants to take. This may happen in other places, but not at Team KSA. I have seen myself filing, carrying out market research, updating worksheets and handling inventories. I have also seen myself doing creative projects, managing event crises, and giving my opinion during a client meeting where the CEO asked me for my thoughts. So, get ready and be flexible for the projects! They can be easy, they can be long, and they can also be varied and fun, all at the same time!
4. Teamwork is a thing at KSA
There is a reason why it is “Team” KSA. Everyone loves working with each other. They have each other’s backs, and never hesitate to offer help. Here is the thing: you may not get yelled at if you are unable to finish a difficult project, but you may if you never ask for help. People on the team are so open to collaborate it would never be a challenge for you to initiate a teamwork invitation. So, get yourself a partner and master the project together!
5. Stay connected
At the end of my internship, I was able to get to know more about everyone in person, and got inspired by their talents and hard work. Each of them has very different personalities and backgrounds, but together, they make a great team that stays on top of the projects! I can see myself fitting in and thriving while working with such amazingly talented and diligent people. I learned a lot about how to ask for help and team up effectively with others. I was able to gain valuable feedback and insights about marketing from the senior members of Team KSA. Most importantly, I was able to establish a close relationship with my colleagues and stay in touch with them even after my internship. I am now proud to call them my friends.