This document provides tips for interns to brand themselves early in their careers. It advises interns to 1) do a self-reflection check-in to identify ways they have added value and exceeded expectations during their internship. 2) Take a personal inventory of the skills and experiences gained from classes, projects, and activities. 3) Start networking by connecting with others on social media and setting up informal meetings. 4) Plan ahead by capturing personal insights and visualizing new possibilities for their career.

1. Early Career, Branding Yourself
By now, must be thinking to yourselves, “Ok, I’m halfway into my cool new
internship. So now what?” Know that your internship is only part of the journey on
the way to your goal; it’s an opportunity to surround yourself with others that were
once in your shoes. Focus and celebrate your development and progress while
keeping these tips close to heart
1. Do a self-reflection check-in
Tune in and ask yourself if you’re maximizing your experience: How can you
continue to de-liver value? While looking for ways to exceed expectations, trust
that leadership will notice your project. Introspect and take a solutions-oriented
approach to identify areas of opportunity and help your teammates bridge any
gaps you witness. You now have leverage and value from skills you developed;
take the time to jot down the projects you completed, the collaboration on them,
and what you gained. What was a breeze? What was challenging?
2. Take a personal inventory
Request more responsibility and pitch new ideas. What classes, specific
assignments, student activities/clubs, papers, or research did you complete that
helped you during your internship? Follow up by soliciting feedback from your
supervisor with an attitude of gratitude via phone/zoom/or email. Keep it informal.
3. Start Networking
Making connections is imperative and is a priority. Keep it simple. Be kind and
authentic in your approach and interactions. Connecting via social media, sharing
experiences, soliciting advice, and planning to meet for coffee will make that latte
more flavorful.
4. Plan Ahead
Ratchet up the excitement as you build your professional foundation. Look back
and plan forward. With a new community and acquired talent, capture personal
insights and read signals around your coping mechanisms, especially around
problem-solving. Believe you are ready and continue in that mode while
visualizing new possibilities.
“Take the anxiety OUT of performance by telling
yourself, “I’m eager and ready!”
Anita K | Samsung TA & Coach
As a motivational life coach, strategic talent manager, and author, Anita K offers
progressive solutions to prioritize top talent for Samsung’s success.
She welcomes to hear from you at anita.kanti@partner.samsung.com