Kate Steele
Internships and co-op programs are a great introduction to NATIONAL and act as broad exposure to real world experience while getting to do work that makes a difference. So how do you sign up? And what does it take to have a successful experience?
We talked to people across the network, involved in everything from website design and development services to marketing and media relations. Here are their tips.
We are trusted partners, and we expect the same from our interns
At NATIONAL, we encourage and value input from every member of the team, and our interns are no different. Stephanie McGrath, Director of Content Strategy, encourages co-op students / interns to, “be confident (with a dash of humility) and have the ability to add original, strategic thinking to a project.”
“Bring energy with a healthy dose of discipline,” advises Tara Wickwire, Director. “You can speak volumes without using any words at all.” At NATIONAL, we seek individuals who foster the entrepreneurial spirit and want to be a part of our team. Sweat the details and deliver exceptional client service.
Be present, do your research, come prepared, and deliver quality work with a great attitude.
Show us what you are made of
Kathy Rammage, Director of Human Resources, says interns must “have a willingness to jump in and try anything we throw their way (which is usually pretty cool stuff).” We want idea generators who have the ability to strategize and prioritize. Commit to understanding the larger picture and be a team player who provides insight and ideas with strict attention to detail. As our trusted co-op or intern you will be fully integrated into our team. Paul Williams, Creative Director stresses the importance of “designing toward a strategy, not just for aesthetics.”
“We like bold thinkers, so do not be afraid to show us you have tenacity and an eagerness to learn,” says Karen White, Director. Her colleague Kristan Hines, VP of Public Affairs, says “don’t be afraid to speak up and tell us what projects you are interested in working on.” Demonstrate the work you are proud of and tell us what you are interested in. We want to know what interests you about working at NATIONAL.
What are the benefits of co-op / intern positions?
Our interns and co-ops can expect the ‘real deal’ experience. Expect to be fully immersed in our team gaining invaluable experience working in an integrated communications agency – from research and monitoring, to writing, media relations, pitching, organizing events, and creative design.
Landing an internship at NATIONAL gets your foot in the door – and provides an opportunity to learn from the best and brightest minds in the industry. This is your opportunity to sharpen your skills, elevate your personal brand, network with professionals, and increase your chances of landing a full-time position.
It’s not for the faint of heart
“Be ready to work. If NATIONAL’s willing to make an investment in you, you must be willing to make an investment in NATIONAL,” cautions Nick Ritcey, Consultant. Those who are willing to roll up their sleeves to get things done are the ones who will be successful.
A communications career is often portrayed as a glamorous life of press conferences and party planning in fancy suits, sipping on venti lattes. This could not be further from the truth. At NATIONAL, we help our clients solve problems, we tell stories, we work hard, we have fun and most of all we love what we do. While our work may not always be glamorous, it is always rewarding.
So you’ve landed the opportunity of a lifetime at NATIONAL. Now what?
Congratulations. You have your foot in the door. Now the real work begins. The ball is in your court to show us what you’re made of. Gavin Anderegg, Lead Developer, advises, “we’re looking for someone we can mentor, but who also wants to sink their teeth into tough problems and get their hands dirty.” We’ve all had to start somewhere. Take this opportunity to explore and discover the day to day life at NATIONAL. Work hard, have fun and good luck.
Interested in how you can be a part of the NATIONAL team?
The NATIONAL co-op / internship is a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, on an amazing team with a stellar roster of clients. Check out our current career listings and opportunities and feel free to contact our local HR contacts to find out more about us. We look forward to hearing from you.
———
——— Kate Steele is a former Associate at NATIONAL Public Relations