Taking an unpaid internship over the age of 30 can be a huge sacrifice. Here’s some tips to help keep you focused and motivated while working for free.
Unemployment numbers are still in a state of flux. Job seekers are noticing a growing trend during this employer’s market: the rise of internship positions and the number of mid-career adults willing to take them. If you’re like most adults, the reality of everyday responsibilities like paying bills, taking care of children, family members and paying the mortgage or rent can make choosing an internship a challenging decision. If you’re in a position to be able to work for free, here are some tips to stay motivated when there is no check in the mail.
Target your approach
Most likely the reason you’re an intern is because you’re learning a new skill. Career changers and motivated employees who are looking for training to take that next step in their career may look to internships to get the experience needed. Plan your internship before accepting one. Pinpoint the exact things you want to learn and be sure your internship contains those duties as a part of the experience you will gain. If it’s not, figure out what aspect of the internship will be directly related to the job you’re interested in. If you will not walk away with substantially new experiences that will make you marketable in your chosen field, don’t take that internship.
Stay humble
While you may be able to contribute more than what you’re being asked to do due to your many years of work experience, don’t try to show off or get into competitive riffs with your colleagues. Part of being able to learn a new skill is being teachable. You may be tempted to show off your knowledge especially when your “boss” is ten plus years younger than you. I know, it’s tempting. But right now, they have something you want, knowledge and skill. Be thankful that you’re getting hands on training that will take you to the next step in your career. Keep your eyes on the prize and breathe deeply.
Know the players
While at your internship, it’s your chance to shine! Meet the players, get involved and be visible. You’re on a mission to learn something new, make new connections and land a job. Treat everyday like a job interview and keep your ears open for new opportunities that meet your qualifications. Talk to the people around you about your goals and see if you can be given projects directly related to your position of choice.
Secure your finances
This might be a no brainer, but having a padded bank account or a continuous income source beyond your emergency fund is a necessity. Make sure to have enough income to cover at least 6-8 months of expenses. It’s easier to concentrate on doing an excellent job when you’re not worried about where your next mortgage check is coming from. It’s also easy to feel a bit slighted when you’re paying transportation and lunch costs associated with your free job, but not getting a monetary return. Finding employment after an internship in your new field can take a while. Sometimes you might get lucky and land a gig where you interned, but it’s not a guarantee.
Keep sending out your resume
Keep your resume fresh and updated. Whenever you learn something new or complete a new major project, be sure it’s reflected on your current resume. Send your resume out to employers while you’re still interning. Remember the saying, it’s easier to land a job when you have a job? Well, put that to theory to the test here. When you feel good about where you are in your career search, it comes through on your cover letters and correspondence. So while you’re learning, growing and working on projects you care about, take that time to share the good energy with prospective employers.
Don’t give up
Do give yourself a time limit. After a month at your internship, assess your progress. Are you learning new things, are you working on meaningful projects, will this sacrifice get you to the next step? If the answer is not a resounding yes, do not be afraid to leave and find something else. The goal is to get as much experience in a short amount of time, so you can get back into the workforce. Having a plan and keeping a close eye on your targets will keep you on a determined track even though the check is not in the mail. Good luck!
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