Parents Please Don't Let Your College Kid Blow Their Summer Internship:

Let's face it—most students aren't prepared for what real-world work demands. School doesn't teach soft skills like communication, professionalism, or how to read a room. That's where this episode steps in. It's a no-fluff guide to help young professionals show up, stand out, and succeed as summer interns. I cover the crucial skills and attitudes needed to succeed in a professional environment, including the importance of presence, professionalism, and people skills. I stress the importance of punctuality, effective email communication, and leveraging social capital. You'll also learn about the significance of building relationships, appropriate social media usage, and the value of asking thoughtful questions. As I emphasize throughout the episode, internships are auditions for future roles, and how you show up can set the tone for your entire career. This is the definitive guide to help your college student not only survive their internship—but thrive.

00:00 Introduction to Leave Your Mark

00:29 Special Episode for Parents and College Students

01:53 The Reality of Internships

03:20 Building Your Personal Brand

04:32 Effective Communication Skills

07:23 The Importance of Soft Skills

09:04 Networking and Building Relationships

11:33 Social Media Etiquette for Interns

14:03 Collaboration Over Competition

15:15 Asking Questions and Seeking Feedback

16:44 Concluding Advice and Final Thoughts