What you need to know about taking on a summer internship

We take a look at the value a HIP internship can offer you and how summer internships work.

If you’re a university student or new graduate then you may know how difficult the job market is… If not, then we hate to break it to you… It’s very competitive. With more and more young people graduating with honours each year, having a degree is simply put, just not enough anymore.

So how do you stand out from the rest in such a competitive job market? Well, interning during your summer break is probably the best option.

HIP is seeking recent graduates and current students living in the Humber region (Hull, East Riding, North and North East Lincolnshire) for our summer internship programme. We’re flattered to receive interest from further afield, but please only register for HIP if you live in the Humber!

We’re looking for diverse students with inquisitive minds and the desire to challenge themselves and the status quo. Our interns learn quickly, are natural problem solvers and thrive on doing well.

How a HIP summer internship works

A HIP Summer internship is a paid work placement that starts in June and lasts for 12 weeks. It’s a great opportunity to work with a small-medium sized business right here in the Humber region and contribute to the success of real projects.

SO, first things first, if you haven’t already signed up to HIP, you need to do that…like right now! Summer is just around the corner!

Step 1
Eligibility and enrolment
You’ll be assigned a careers adviser and we’ll discuss your aspirations and skillset. We’ll take you through the enrolment process and get you fully signed up.

Step 2
Tailored learning plan
You’ll attend an appointment where we’ll put together your tailored learning plan. From this you’ll gain access to any support needed such as CV/interview workshops or individual advice and guidance support. This will be reviewed monthly.

Step 3
Internship implementation
Very importantly, add 18th April to your calendar. From this date you will have access to all HIP vacancies where you will be able to submit an application to internships that are relevant for your skillset or degree. Keep your diary clear between 23 May and 6 June for potential interviews.

From June, you could well have landed yourself the summer internship that kick-starts your career.

Will there be an internship relevant to my degree?

On 18 April HIP will launch all of its summer internship opportunities, so be sure to check our website to see what positions are available – you may find the perfect internship that utilises the knowledge learnt from your degree and helps you get onto your chosen career path.

But what if you want to try a job or industry that isn’t strictly relevant to your degree?

So, here’s the thing; don’t think that you have to study a degree in the field of your internship. Yes, you need to be suitable for it and show that you’re capable, but it’s also really important to keep an open mind. You’ve probably heard about Transferable Skills, and for a good reason – they’re really important not just to secure an internship but throughout your entire career.

Employers look for a core set of skills and traits when considering applicants for both internships and entry-level jobs. These might include:

1. Teamwork
   The ability to work as part of a team will serve you well in any company, industry, or work environment.
2. Communication
   No matter what industry you work in, communication skills are absolutely essential for success.
3. Interpersonal
   It’s important to be able to build and maintain relationships and be the kind of person team members want in the office with them every day.
4. Adaptability
   If you can change course quickly when needed, and adapt to new environments, you’re already an excellent candidate for any job.
5. Time management
   Employers want to know that you can prioritize responsibilities and recognize when it’s appropriate to multitask or focus on one particular project at a time.
6. Initiative
   Your potential employer will appreciate the chance to bring someone on board who doesn’t have to wait to receive direction for every task, and who’s willing to assist others with their work.
7. Creativity
   Most employers want to hire someone who brings new, fresh ideas to the table, and offers ideas nobody else has thought of.

The good news is that you likely already possess many transferable skills. Think about the skills you have developed in college or university, during a community project, when working on personal or creative projects or as a volunteer. If you have the skills the employer is looking for PUT THEM ON YOUR CV!

Starting on a new professional path can be extremely daunting, but armed with transferable skills and some hands-on experience, you’ll be unstoppable.

Are internships paid?
All HIP internships are paid.
You will be paid by the company who recruits you, this will be agreed during the recruitment process.  How much will depend on the business, the skills they require and what the role entails.

When can I start?
A summer internship will start in June. So KEEP YOUR CALENDAR CLEAR!

Will I be supported while on my internship?
HIP can support small or medium size enterprises (SMEs), which are based, or are planning to locate, in the Humber, Hull, East Riding, North or North East Lincolnshire.

Does HIP recruit all year round?
Yes, the HIP team will work year round to find internships for you. So if summer isn’t the right time for you, our advice is to register with us so you’ll be able to access a top internship for when you’re ready to undertake one.

Are you motivated to take on an internship? Register with HIP today.