39 answers
Christie
Student
Wellesley, Massachusetts
4
Questions
Updated
878 views
Given the increased need to work from home, I was wondering what sort of factors should I keep in mind while finding/working in an online/virtual internship?
I'm specifically interested in finance, consulting, and non profit work
#internship #finance #consulting #nonprofit #COVID-19
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39 answers
Sherri Correll
Account Exec-Field Sales Rep
2
Answers
Richmond, Virginia
Updated
Sherri’s Answer
As a professional working from home for over 20+ years, here's some tips to on managing your day effectively:
1) Keep a routine, it's easy to get distracted and off course without a set guideline.
2) Turn your ringer and alerts off on your mobile devices, otherwise it's too easy to be distracted.
3) Make a "to-do" list of things that must get done done by the end of the day to keep yourself focused.
4) Keep your desk organized!
5) Take 30 minutes to walk away and exercise or get some fresh air.
1) Keep a routine, it's easy to get distracted and off course without a set guideline.
2) Turn your ringer and alerts off on your mobile devices, otherwise it's too easy to be distracted.
3) Make a "to-do" list of things that must get done done by the end of the day to keep yourself focused.
4) Keep your desk organized!
5) Take 30 minutes to walk away and exercise or get some fresh air.
mary benito
Sales Advisor
5
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
mary’s Answer
Hi there,
First off, I would consider time management and giving yourself a workspace that you'll be able to be engaged in. As for finding an online/virtual internship, you should be aware that not many people will get back to you as quickly. By all means, you should continue to apply and network during this time. Remind yourself to not be discouraged!
In between internship hunting, take the opportunity to brush over your resume, CV, portfolio, etc., - make sure it's updated and is a current reflection of the experience you have. Good luck!
First off, I would consider time management and giving yourself a workspace that you'll be able to be engaged in. As for finding an online/virtual internship, you should be aware that not many people will get back to you as quickly. By all means, you should continue to apply and network during this time. Remind yourself to not be discouraged!
In between internship hunting, take the opportunity to brush over your resume, CV, portfolio, etc., - make sure it's updated and is a current reflection of the experience you have. Good luck!
Anne Gattoni
7
Answers
Updated
Anne’s Answer
Christie, this is a great question. Regardless of whether you are working remotely or in person, stay engaged and complete your assignments in a professional and timely manner. If you have the opportunity to meet your managers or co-workers in person, take the opportunity to connect with them remotely via chat or a phone call to continue the relationship. Also, don't be afraid to ask questions. Your manager will appreciate your desire to learn more about the job and your interest in being a proactive employee. Also, understand the value of saying thank you or congratulating someone else for their work or accomplishments. People will remember that you are a gracious participant and collaborative co-worker. Finally, I suggest connecting with your colleagues on LinkedIn so you can maintain an on-going relationship with them once the internship is over.
Syed Ferdous
Program Manager
101
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Syed’s Answer
Hi Christie,
In the consulting space, you'd want to consider the following things:
1. The pre-COVID 19 stance or attitude around WFH: The more the company has engaged with WFH in the past, the more likely they are to sustain it now (IBM has a great WFH culture and infrastructure, for example)
2. Digital tools used by the company to stay in touch - Think Slack, Zoom, Whatsapp, etc. - You don't want to be out of sight and out of mind
3. Level of online training available: You won't have an in-person training to rely on, so online training is critical. At IBM for example, we had a YourLearning portal with 1000s of hours of content in very broad and also very niche subjects
4. "Online" Hours: Depending on what type of work/life balance you're looking for, you have to know the expectations around when to be online. Typically, consultants are online all the time anyway. However, some firms are more conscious of family/personal time than others.
5. Level of client exposure: In consulting, the client is king. The more you can create value for a client and flex your skills, the more likely you are to get a return offer. Unfortunately, you won't be able to do this in person. Make sure the consulting company has a plan for how to get you in front of clients and working on client-facing activities while remote.
In the consulting space, you'd want to consider the following things:
1. The pre-COVID 19 stance or attitude around WFH: The more the company has engaged with WFH in the past, the more likely they are to sustain it now (IBM has a great WFH culture and infrastructure, for example)
2. Digital tools used by the company to stay in touch - Think Slack, Zoom, Whatsapp, etc. - You don't want to be out of sight and out of mind
3. Level of online training available: You won't have an in-person training to rely on, so online training is critical. At IBM for example, we had a YourLearning portal with 1000s of hours of content in very broad and also very niche subjects
4. "Online" Hours: Depending on what type of work/life balance you're looking for, you have to know the expectations around when to be online. Typically, consultants are online all the time anyway. However, some firms are more conscious of family/personal time than others.
5. Level of client exposure: In consulting, the client is king. The more you can create value for a client and flex your skills, the more likely you are to get a return offer. Unfortunately, you won't be able to do this in person. Make sure the consulting company has a plan for how to get you in front of clients and working on client-facing activities while remote.
Carlie Penn
Tech Consulting
3
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Carlie’s Answer
I live in a small home with another person who also works from home, and it can be very distracting! The best trick I've learned is to dedicate a work space for yourself -- meaning don't work in bed or on the couch, use a desk or the kitchen table. I also find it helpful to get ready for the day, even if it's just getting out of my pajamas. Another suggestions is to set up a quick daily touch point with your team in the morning to make sure you are all aligned on what needs to get done for the day. Given that you will be new to the workforce as an intern, I would also suggest to ask someone for help if you are ever unsure of something and get stuck trying to do it on your own. It's easier to ask for help when they are sitting right next to you in person, but a quick call might clear things up and save you time in the long run.
Rodney Armstrong
Governance Analyst
1
Answer
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Rodney’s Answer
Good question,
Working remotely is definitely a different pace than going into the office everyday. I have found it both challenging and rewarding. You will lose the face to face contact with your colleagues but video conference calls will make up for that. It is important to speak up and let your voice be heard during video calls so you maintain that connection with your team. A few general best practices I've found useful are:
1) Dedicated downtime: Make sure to unplug and disconnect from your work. Go outside or connect with a close friend.
2) Dedicated time: Set office hours. Determine daily priorities.
3) Communicate Needs: Manager knows what I need to do my best work. Family/Friends/Housemates know what I need to do my best work.
4) Working Technology: Make sure software is updated. Audio/Visual muted when appropriate.
Working remotely is definitely a different pace than going into the office everyday. I have found it both challenging and rewarding. You will lose the face to face contact with your colleagues but video conference calls will make up for that. It is important to speak up and let your voice be heard during video calls so you maintain that connection with your team. A few general best practices I've found useful are:
1) Dedicated downtime: Make sure to unplug and disconnect from your work. Go outside or connect with a close friend.
2) Dedicated time: Set office hours. Determine daily priorities.
3) Communicate Needs: Manager knows what I need to do my best work. Family/Friends/Housemates know what I need to do my best work.
4) Working Technology: Make sure software is updated. Audio/Visual muted when appropriate.
Maddie Brandt
Supply Chain TAP Associate
3
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Maddie’s Answer
Although there are many answers to this question, I thought I'd give a little input! This summer I had an in-person internship that was switched to a virtual internship due to COVID. These are my tips:
1. Have a morning routine! Don't just roll out of bed and start working. I've found that working out and even going for a short walk before work help me be more productive and focused.
2. Get ready in the morning. I know its easy to stay in your pajamas, but I highly suggested getting dressed and doing your hair or makeup. This really helps me feel more professional and productive during the day!
3. Keep your work life and home life separate. Have set hours that you will work and hours that you don't. If you need to deal with something outside of your work hours than that's okay, but I think it's important to have "me" time as well!
I hope this helps and good luck! :)
1. Have a morning routine! Don't just roll out of bed and start working. I've found that working out and even going for a short walk before work help me be more productive and focused.
2. Get ready in the morning. I know its easy to stay in your pajamas, but I highly suggested getting dressed and doing your hair or makeup. This really helps me feel more professional and productive during the day!
3. Keep your work life and home life separate. Have set hours that you will work and hours that you don't. If you need to deal with something outside of your work hours than that's okay, but I think it's important to have "me" time as well!
I hope this helps and good luck! :)
Mary Healy
Advanced TV Sales operations
6
Answers
Centerport, New York
Updated
Mary’s Answer
Hi Christie, in addition to making sure that your time is structured and focused, I think that it is really important that your employer is as well. Look for an internship that has clear and defined goals and tasks - otherwise you may be delegated to grunt work only. You should ensure that the internship will provide you with a marketable skill that you can add to your resume. I also think that it is a great idea to look for an opportunity at a company that you would ideally want to work for, or that is associated with companies that you are interested in. Networking is such a key component of any job search.
Sara Buschman
Administrator
1
Answer
Madison, Wisconsin
Updated
Sara’s Answer
As someone who has worked extensively with non-profits there is limited work from
home opportunities simply because the work most often involves working directly with providing services to people. If you want to go that route you’d probably be looking more at data analytics for larger non-profits that operate internationally.
Also, consultants usually are folks who have extensive experience in a specific industry so I am not sure what kind of internships are available. A better option than searching for internships would be to find someone who is a consultant in a field of interest to you and see if they would be willing to mentor you and help guide you so that you develop the skills necessary to becoming a consultant.
home opportunities simply because the work most often involves working directly with providing services to people. If you want to go that route you’d probably be looking more at data analytics for larger non-profits that operate internationally.
Also, consultants usually are folks who have extensive experience in a specific industry so I am not sure what kind of internships are available. A better option than searching for internships would be to find someone who is a consultant in a field of interest to you and see if they would be willing to mentor you and help guide you so that you develop the skills necessary to becoming a consultant.
Mireya Marquez
admin
3
Answers
Tempe, Arizona
Updated
Mireya’s Answer
I worked virtually before COVID. Factors to keep in mind would be communication. Ensure you are entering or working for a company/team that communicates frequently with multiple methods of communication. Open communication will help you grow and learn as a professional entering the workforce. Time management is also a key factor when working from home, try to figure out a routine and method to organize your daily responsibilities.
Tina Sharma
Financial Analysis
20
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Tina’s Answer
WFH or taking classes and internships online is the new normal now. However its good to keep few points in mind to keep the productivity going and getting best results.
Keep networking in the form of talking to to your fellow colleagues, attending meeting and talking to your seniors.
Always keep a to-do list for the day and prioritize your work.
Keep a schedule ready for the day. Always keep sometime as break for lunch hours and coffee.
Take regular feedback to keep your productivity high
and above all stay motivated.
Keep networking in the form of talking to to your fellow colleagues, attending meeting and talking to your seniors.
Always keep a to-do list for the day and prioritize your work.
Keep a schedule ready for the day. Always keep sometime as break for lunch hours and coffee.
Take regular feedback to keep your productivity high
and above all stay motivated.
Vera Ibrahim
Executive Assistant
15
Answers
Woodbridge Township, New Jersey
Updated
Vera’s Answer
Take as many breaks as you can to unplug from your laptop. Drink lots of water and stretch as well to keep focused. If you need to take time away, do so.
Tammy Romero
Credit Risk Manager
24
Answers
McLean, Virginia
Updated
Tammy’s Answer
To add to the multiple comments above, I would like to add that you have to set a schedule because there are days when the day can run into the evening and you can tend to work more hours. It is important to always maintain a good work/life balance. I am more productive when I can take a pause.
And lastly, my moto, if you will, is your year end performance review is based on what you produced or completed through the year, not how many hours you sat at your computer. I recommend you remain flexible and find how you can be most productive.
Good luck.
And lastly, my moto, if you will, is your year end performance review is based on what you produced or completed through the year, not how many hours you sat at your computer. I recommend you remain flexible and find how you can be most productive.
Good luck.
Phillip Bedard
Tax Accountant
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Phillip’s Answer
Hi Christie,
Here are a few things to consider when working in a remote environment:
- Continue developing your work relationships/network. Communicate in ways other than email. Develop personal touch points.
- When comfortable/available, use video chat. This adds a personal touch in a remote environment.
- Reach out and talk through issues or questions when possible. This saves plenty of time for everyone involved. Do not be afraid to ask questions.
- Find ways to remain focused and balance work and home life. Communicate any flexibility you may need in your schedule to hold yourself accountable.
- Make time to take care of yourself. This environment can be draining, so take time to exercise, eat, meditate, etc. Protect your "you time" in any way you can.
- Set an end time to the day. Try not to lose control of your schedule.
- Create a comfortable workspace. Items like an office chair, desk, and desktop monitor are worth the investment if it makes you more comfortable and focused on the job.
Hope this helps!
Here are a few things to consider when working in a remote environment:
- Continue developing your work relationships/network. Communicate in ways other than email. Develop personal touch points.
- When comfortable/available, use video chat. This adds a personal touch in a remote environment.
- Reach out and talk through issues or questions when possible. This saves plenty of time for everyone involved. Do not be afraid to ask questions.
- Find ways to remain focused and balance work and home life. Communicate any flexibility you may need in your schedule to hold yourself accountable.
- Make time to take care of yourself. This environment can be draining, so take time to exercise, eat, meditate, etc. Protect your "you time" in any way you can.
- Set an end time to the day. Try not to lose control of your schedule.
- Create a comfortable workspace. Items like an office chair, desk, and desktop monitor are worth the investment if it makes you more comfortable and focused on the job.
Hope this helps!
Emma Alcock
Commercial Operations
4
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Emma’s Answer
Hi Christie,
I would look for companies that have existing technological capabilities. Through the interview process ask questions around how the business has managed the transition to WFH with their staff. Also, after speaking with people at different companies reflect on how easy it was to develop a rapport with them and your level of interest in the company post the discussion.
Most importantly, focus on companies that you are passionate about and excited about.
Good luck!
I would look for companies that have existing technological capabilities. Through the interview process ask questions around how the business has managed the transition to WFH with their staff. Also, after speaking with people at different companies reflect on how easy it was to develop a rapport with them and your level of interest in the company post the discussion.
Most importantly, focus on companies that you are passionate about and excited about.
Good luck!
Michele Gass
Director of Collections
13
Answers
Greeneville, Tennessee
Updated
Michele’s Answer
This is a great and timely question. I think there are two parts: 1) the personal work from home experience and 2) the industry/business experience. On a personal front, when working from home it's important to do the following to manage a work from how experience:
- Keep a dedicated workspace
- Maintain a comparable schedule
- Use a combination of audio and video conferencing
- Don't just work virtually - socialize virtually as well like you would at the office (coffee breaks, lunches, virtual networking - all are critical)
In choosing an internship or opportunity, the industry you consider and the specific assignment may be affected by other considerations and policies, but the biggest might be privacy concerns. Companies have a responsibility to carefully control and protect personally identifiable and private information of their customers. For that reason, working remotely outside of a company's brick and mortar space or outside of their computing firewall is fraught with risk and has to be carefully managed by a company. Some assignments and roles may not be able to be performed remotely, and that should be a big consideration in pursuing assignments.
- Keep a dedicated workspace
- Maintain a comparable schedule
- Use a combination of audio and video conferencing
- Don't just work virtually - socialize virtually as well like you would at the office (coffee breaks, lunches, virtual networking - all are critical)
In choosing an internship or opportunity, the industry you consider and the specific assignment may be affected by other considerations and policies, but the biggest might be privacy concerns. Companies have a responsibility to carefully control and protect personally identifiable and private information of their customers. For that reason, working remotely outside of a company's brick and mortar space or outside of their computing firewall is fraught with risk and has to be carefully managed by a company. Some assignments and roles may not be able to be performed remotely, and that should be a big consideration in pursuing assignments.
Jodi Gottlieb, CPA
Assurance Associate at PwC
11
Answers
Updated