A New President and a New Beginning

Yesterday's Presidential Inauguration and subsequent parade got me thinking. An newly officiated President is slightly like a newly minted intern. Both have a brand spankin' new job and (presumably) large shoes to fill. While it goes without saying that the job of Commander-in-Chief/President of the Free World/First Dad/First Husband and President of the United States of America are much more challenging than say a public relations intern, the gumption and guts required to be successful are very similar. In an intern's world some assignments will seem like Mount Everest - while the President may find himself trying to save Mount Everest - perhaps from Global Warming?

The President surrounds himself with individuals and staffers to help him in each decision and turn his presidency will take. An intern is also surrounded by co-workers and bosses to help shape his or her internship. As an intern, you should take the knowledge and know how of each individual in that office and use it to your advantage. If you are going to be there to learn, why not learn as much as you can. You're surrounded by intelligent, hard working people - take note of their background, how many newspapers they read, what their past lives were like - how did they get to the spot that you would like to be? And how can their knowledge help you in your new found spot at the company. Much like the President will lean on his staffers and Cabinet officials to help him navigate the White House waters, make sure to use and learn from the workers in your own office. No one should be offended to be asked how they do what they do - or how they got there - everyone has to start somewhere. I've noticed too, that people love to talk about themselves - even to interns. So no matter what, remember that the President has a staff to support him, and you have a staff to support you. Speak up, get to know the people in your office and remember - the more you make yourself invaluable, the better your recommendations, references, and chances that you have to gain a solid foothold on the path to your future.