Advice for the Teenage Summer Intern: Lose the Flip-Flops!

As the season for summer internships approaches, I wanted to outline some do’s and don’ts of what might be your first workplace as a teen.1. Dress for the job you want, not the job you have. As a teenager in a typically adult situation, it’s important to dispel any preconceptions people have about adolescents. Teens are stereotypically known for inappropriate outfits (whether it be crop tops or ripped jeans), so when in doubt, try dressing up rather than down. It will show  that you’re serious about the opportunity and that you wish to be treated like an adult.

Even though flipflops and jeans can be permissible in some business situations (depending on what they’re worn with), you shouldn’t be the one wearing them. Let other interns show up in flipflops, and I guarantee you’ll be seen as more serious.

Another tip for dressing well I learned at GLI: if you go a little tight or skimpy on the top, go loose and long on the bottom, and vice-versa. Now, I’m not talking about the cargo pants/belly shirt look (which I hope you’re not sporting, anyway), but rather, if you opt for a more fitted skirt or pant, try a looser button down shirt. Likewise, if you decide to wear a shorter sleeved, lower-cut blouse, go for down-to-earth business slacks on the bottom.If your skirt or dress is short, it probably also isn’t a great idea to wear super high heels. I suggest H&M for cheap, classy, business-wear, especially because they have some great dresses, like this one, which allow you to avoid the top and bottom problem altogether.  I also just bought this skirt for my summer internship.2. Come prepared for anything. I find this is usually accomplished by bringing a hardy notebook, a clear plastic folder, and a full case of pens or pencils. In addition, if you’re starting an internship that requires you to wear heels, it’s never a bad idea to bring flats or canvas sneakers in your purse. I learned this the hard way when I showed up for an internship in heels and was asked to put up flyers all over the neighborhood for several hours. You can bet my feet hurt after that, and since then, I’ve always stashed a small pair of flats or sneakers in my bag. These flexible flats from the Gap are meant to fit in your purse.3. Be attentive. Even if your boss is droning on about something seemingly unimportant, make sure you write down what he or she is saying. What they are talking about may come up later, in which case it will be important that you are able to recall this conversation. You never know what you may end up doing. As an intern, your job can range from getting coffee to contacting the FBI (both of which, as I have experienced, can be equally frightening). The action of taking notes will also show the person you’re meeting with that you’re hardworking. Finally, learn to take notes that will help you.When I’m new at an internship I’ll write down people’s names in my notebook next to a description of the person. For example, “Martha—red hair, last cubicle to the left.” Finally, if you’re given a computer, use it for research or writing. Don’t go on Facebook, AIM, or Gchat. If you’ve finished all your work, read a magazine, book, or surf the New York Times online. If your boss sees you on Facebook, you won’t appear hardworking.

4. Use your lifelines. If you find yourself faced with a dilemma that you don’t know how to solve, try “calling a friend” or “asking the audience.” If you hit a dead end in accomplishing a task, try asking other interns in the office for help. Of course, you can always ask your boss for help, but asking others will ensure that you don’t overlook a simple solution.

5. Chill out. This may seem like it goes against everything else, but remember that your boss knows you’re a teenager and probably understands that this is one of the first serious meetings you’ve had that hasn’t taken place in school. If you’re unable to locate the manila envelopes in the supply closet, you forget the woman in the third cubicle’s name, or you don’t have a pen, you probably won’t be fired. As long as you admit your mistake, and request help politely, no one is going to think badly of you. After all, you’re a teenager!For more advice on how to behave in professional situations, consult Rachel’s GirlTip on body language.Fiona Lowenstein is a high school junior, weekly guest blogger and Girls Leadership Institute alumna. Read more of her work here.