What is a Remote Internship?

Internships are a great way to get experience in your chosen field- they’re usually short-term and it’s your first taste of a professional setting. Remote internships are just like regular ones, except you work from your computer instead of going to an office, letting you be more flexible with your schedule and explore more opportunities than you might otherwise have access to.

 

How to Find a Remote Internship

Expand Your Search Horizons

Gone are the days when internships were limited to your local area. Use this to your advantage and broaden your search to national and global opportunities. Websites like Internships.com, Indeed, and LinkedIn offer remote internships that cater to a wide range of industries.

 

Connect with Professionals on Social Media

Leverage the power of social media to connect with professionals in your field. Platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and even industry-specific forums can be goldmines for remote opportunities, often shared by company insiders.

 

Craft a Compelling Digital Persona

Your digital presence should reflect your professional skills and identity. Keep your LinkedIn profile updated, utilizing as many features as possible, create a portfolio website if relevant, and ensure that any public social media posts are professional or private.

 

Securing the Internship

Crafting a Standout Application

Your resume and cover letter are your first impression— make them count. Focus on quantifiable achievements in your resume and customize your cover letter to highlight why you’re a perfect fit for the remote role. Utilize the STAR method to discuss your experiences (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide context and impact.

 

Nailing the Interview

Preparing for a virtual interview requires technical skills and a professional online presence. To help make a great impression, follow our checklist:

• Dress professionally
• Find good lighting (either natural or artificial)
• Test out headphones for sound and voice quality
• Practice maintaining eye contact over video
• Make sure your device and programs are updated and working properly

 

Preparing for Your Remote Internship

Understand the Logistics

Before you start, clarify the internship’s structure, your working hours, what the company provides for you (think a device, stipend, etc), and any software or tools needed for collaboration. This insight will help you properly plan your life around the internship and ensure a smooth start.

 

Establish a Professional Workspace

Your environment influences your mindset. Create a dedicated workspace at home, if possible, and ensure it’s tidy, well-lit, and conducive to productivity. Also, make sure to have a professional background or prepare a virtual one.

 

Refine Your Time Management Skills

Remote work requires excellent time management. Hone this skill by creating a daily schedule, blocking out time for different tasks, and using tools like Trello or Todoist to keep track of your responsibilities. Oftentimes the company you’re interning for may have a task-logging platform that they prefer to use. Don’t be afraid to ask!

 

Completing Your Remote Internship Successfully

Over-Communicate

In remote work, there’s no such thing as over-communication. Regular check-ins with your supervisor and team will ensure you’re on track and help build relationships.

 

Be Proactive

Don’t wait to be given work. Show initiative by seeking out projects, suggesting improvements, and connecting with others within the company. Your enthusiasm won’t go unnoticed.

 

Take Advantage of the Remote Environment’s Benefits

Remote work allows for flexibility and self-direction. Be sure to take care of your mental and physical health by using your breaks wisely and ensuring you find time to disconnect from work.

 

FAQs

How do Remote Internships Work?

Remote internships operate similarly to in-person internships, with the main distinction being the location of work. Interns will still be assigned tasks, attend meetings (virtually), and receive mentorship. The main difference is that all activities are carried out through digital means, such as video conferencing and project management tools.

 

Are Remote Internships Worth It?

Absolutely. Remote internships provide valuable experience that may have not been available in your geographic area. Plus, you’ll learn important remote work skills and have the flexibility to fit your schedule.

 

What are Some Potential Challenges in Remote Internships?

Some challenges of remote internships include feelings of isolation, difficulty in differentiating between work and home life, and the reliance on technology for communication. Use some of our tips above to help minimize these challenges!

 

How Can I Network in a Remote Setting?

Networking remotely is about quality, not quantity. Attend virtual events, reach out to professionals for virtual coffee chats, and always follow up. It’s also about being present and active in online communities related to your field.

 

Remote Internship Tips:

• Start your search early: Remote internships can be more competitive than traditional ones. You’re likely to be competing against applicants from all over the world. Starting early can help you stand out.
• Master the virtual interview: First impressions count, whether it’s through the screen or in-office! Ensure that your technology works flawlessly, your background is tidy, and, most importantly, you convey your enthusiasm and competence through your screen.
• Keep everything updated: While it’s tempting to keep hitting “remind me later” on that software update, it’s important to make sure all of your programs and devices are up-to-date.
• Be flexible: Things can change rapidly, especially in a virtual environment. Be ready to adapt and pivot your work priorities if needed.
• Document your achievements: Keep a detailed record of the work you do and your accomplishments. This can be especially helpful when updating your resume or LinkedIn profile, and it may also come in handy during performance reviews.