In the internships

I've learned over the years that managers all have different styles. Now that I am starting two positions almost simultaneously it really comes through. I've had to become a little dual-personality like ;-) So the take home lesson is to be flexible. I am alway looking to learn new aspects and take on challenges in my jobs, yet sometimes it's nice to just do something you are good at and enjoy doing a great job with it.

One job is purely an internship and it was stated up front that the actual possibility of getting a paid position was very low. They offered to give me experience wherever I wanted to apply myself and they had an opportunity. Wow - here's awesome resume' building potential! The other has the potential for future employment; but, I learned, not necessarily in that particular area. S'okay. Learn what I can and make connections - network - and get to know the culture so I can know if it is a great fit (it is).

In both cases the jobs required a LOT of extra home time learning new skills and dusting off old ones. But what about that is unusual for starting a new job? Just that I was doing it times two.

The big thing is to get to know your managers' style and have a plan. Sometimes you may have to take charge of your direction; other times your manager is a mentor too and will help guide you along. All the time you have to have a plan for your goals.