How to Get the Most Out of Your Web Internship

Many whippersnappers can recall reading every magazine at the library while praying to the print gods that their names could one day appear on the masthead. Fast forward, and welcome to the world of online media, where that article that was written this morning is already up and has fifteen comments from readers.

If your dream is to get a job in the digital side of it all, a web internship is the best way to get your foot in the door. That is, if you know how to get the most out of the experience and make a lasting impression. Take heed of this advice that can make the difference between a good web intern and that intern editors can’t wait to hire.

Be resourceful. For an in-book assignment, you might have a two-month lead time. But with the Web, you are faced with two hours for a if-you-blink-you’ll-miss-it deadline. Connie Wang, global editor at refinery29.com, calls the pace “neck-breaking.” This environment can be a great and fast-learning opportunity for an intern if they can skillfully navigate online media and be resourceful when completing assignments. “Because completed projects or assignments are usually less comprehensive at web publications,” Wang says, “it means that an intern oftentimes will be able to work on a single story from beginning-to-end—which might present some challenges but offers tons of rewards!”

It’s okay to be on Facebook at work (only if you’re a web intern!) Ed can’t condone “poking” friends and changing your profile picture throughout the workday, but Facebook is a very valuable tool for the web world. Susan Avery, former digital director at More.com, says she prefers her interns to be web savvy from the get-go. “If they’re not active on Facebook, that’s a red flag for me.” Social media is everything when it comes to websites, so brush up on your Facebook, Twitter, and CMS skills before an interview and keep up with all new updates and developments once you land the job.

Also, familiarize yourself with basic SEO, analytics, or perhaps start your own blog. You don’t have to be a pro, but you do have to be aware of the nature of Web media. “You tell a story differently on the web than you do in a magazine,” says Avery, who worked to blend content between More.com and More magazine, “I would hope an intern is open to learning the difference.”

Set goals and then execute them! Jason Stahl, a web producer at MSN, says that an opportunity can be missed if interns do not set deadlines for themselves and meet them. Be aware of what needs to be accomplished each day. “Once you meet your deadlines and your goals,” Stahl says, “then you have time to do other stuff for the website.”

Know print, the Web, and how to balance both. If you’re interning at a magazine’s website, be aware that the print and web teams work hand-in-hand. “There’s a lot more content available to us because we have not only the original content on the web, but also the magazine content,” Avery explains. There needs to be a level of consciousness and understanding of when that monthly content will best benefit a web audience.

Stay informed. “A good Web writer is firstly a good web reader,” Wang advises. “Read as much as you can from both online and print publications, and you’ll get a better context for your own work.” Be sure to make the most of any down time you have by familiarizing yourself with other web and print publications, which will make you a well-informed employee and writer.

Speak up and eavesdrop. (Really!) As for any internship, a web intern should take advantage of the close proximity they have with their supervisors. Avery says she wants her interns to listen in on conversations. Don’t be a total creep, but be aware of what’s going on in the office, on the website, and in the industry. “You’re not going to be a successful intern if you’re a wallflower,” Avery advises. Be eager and know when is the right time to help with any problems that arise.