If you want to be ahead above everyone else who is starting out at the bottom of the totem pole, the best bet is to embark on an internship.

Contrary to prejudices, internships no longer require you to buy coffee or do things that aren't part of the job scope. Times have changed.

The pay may be low but it's the place to gain the most out of becoming really employable.

However, before you dive in, here is some advice you should have been given before starting out on an internship:

1. You could be an intern for a while

Trying to be employed for a full-time position depends on how competitive the industry is and your ability to earn for the company. These days, being offered an internship doesn't necessarily mean they might consider hiring a full-time employee.

To save time -- before embarking on your internship -- check with the company to find out about the possibilities of getting hired. Don't assume.

2. Social capital is important

Communication is vital, especially for interns.

Understand that through networking, you are gaining insights from people who have been in the forefront longer than you. You need to learn more through discussing with your colleagues than filing up reports. Learn to talk.

Ask your colleagues out for lunch and share your visions. Who knows, they could be learning from you instead.

3. It's okay to make mistakes

We want internships to go smoothly without hiccups. Ok... Please chuck that mindset aside.

Internship offers a learning experience. While many strive to do their best, do note that you're new to the industry and a mistake or two is inevitable.

Many think being an intern will have you heavily scrutinised for botching things. That's rubbish too. If mistakes aren't made, how else are you going to learn? Because boot-licking isn't going to have you climb up the corporate ladder.

4. Ideas are always welcomed

Holding a minor role in the company doesn't exclude you from sharing ideas that could potentially be a genius one.

Interns are afraid their ideas would come off stupid. But note this: companies favour interns who take the initiative and because they provide a fresher perspective sometimes.

5. Quality over quantity

While many of us have been taught to value deadlines, handing in work that lacks quality content isn't going to prove your efficiency. Interns think being faster is always better.

No.

Slipshod work is only going out the window. Have your colleagues look through and get feedback. It is fine to spend a little more time producing a quality work.

6. Boredom will strike

It is true. Many companies do not assign work to interns because they're new. This is perfectly normal.

To keep yourself busy and to-do list checked, ask your colleagues if they need any help with their workload. Or ask yourself what you would like to achieve and set out to work towards it while informing your supervisor.

Be a self-starter.

7. Shape what you want out of your experience

An internship isn't just an internship. It sets an ideal career path for you; one that you're likely to pursue after your internship ends.

Recognise your skills and determine the ones you’d like to develop. This means, you need to be honest about what you hate doing.

Take this opportunity to flaunt your skills too, as it could be essential in being a good intern.

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