In today’s competitive job market, it is imperative for up-and-coming employees to learn how to turn internships into viable job opportunities. Ben Pollack, who started as a summer intern at Siemens Healthcare five year ago, is now Communications Specialist within the Web Operations Management team at Siemens Healthcare. His experience and story can shed light on how upcoming grads can turn their passion into a career.
Ben’s first encounter with Siemens was in high school as second place team winner of the Siemens Competition in Math, Science and Technology. Reflecting on his experience, Pollack recalls how the competition challenged him to elevate his critical thinking and writing while gaining experience in public speaking-all skills he uses day-to-day in the work place. Naturally, he kept the healthcare company top of mind when applying for summer internships in college.
Now, with several years under his belt in the healthcare industry, Pollack has a few tips to help get your foot in the door.
1) Keep an Open Mind
Jobs and internships at any stage of your professional development can provide learning experiences that will translate into a future positions. Internships allow individuals to explore multiple fields without having to commit to one. Whether it’s with one company or many, it comes down to the experience and making the most of it.
2) Diversity is the Competitive Edge
Employers aren’t just looking for graduates with high GPAs from top tier institutions. Build a well rounded portfolio that highlights your diverse skills, interests, and ability to apply your experience to all business categories.
3) Re-invent Yourself
What you learn in IT also applies to marketing, especially within the same industry. Pollack started his career in IT and was able to use his skills to create a career in marketing and web development. The fundamentals of one job can apply to another; it’s just a matter of context.
4) “Rule Centric” Creativity
The healthcare industry is highly regulated and requires compliance driven individuals who manage expectations and work well with others. It’s imperative for newcomers to adhere to regulations while thinking creatively. Innovation and ingenuity is key, be proactive about overcoming challenges and obstacles.
5) Professional footprint
Creating a professional footprint goes beyond what’s on your resume. Build credibility where you work and remember to nurture professional relationships.
Use these tips to help market yourself to success. Passion, insight and creativity can be achieved and accomplished – it’s just a matter of thinking outside of the box.