a few weeks ago, I tweeted out an open-call for design interns at @graphyapp. we received several write-ins, interviewed the best of the lot, and then, there were three (more on that in the end!)
here are some insights and tips for interns-to-be! https://twitter.com/snehasanks/status/1305431821220372481?s=20
here are some insights and tips for interns-to-be! https://twitter.com/snehasanks/status/1305431821220372481?s=20

read the announcement/information/job description. the hiring manager/org should/will share info about the role, the team, and other key details. also, check the thread before you eventually decide to apply to get answers for qs you might also have.

write a crisp and simple email. tell me who you are, and what have you been doing so far? what do you enjoy doing and learning? and most importantly, what do you want to do more of(!?). why and how did you find us? why do you want to work with us?

clickbait, flattery and cheeky subject lines are cute, but create a weird and unnecessary first-impression that biases and precedes your interest in the role. don't worry about your english or choice of fancy words. keep it brief and earnest.

the best interns showcase enthusiasm/potential > skill/expertise, so when sharing work, no need to share all of it. share some work (read: work you wanna do more of). links are perfect - website/notion/figma/behance > drive > dribbble (in that order)

read interview guidelines, if any. BE ON TIME. find a quiet place with decent lighting/audio. wear something comfortable. it's very important to understand that I recommend this for one's own peace of mind and clarity of thought.

your mind is able to focus on what you're saying and hearing, rather than other distractions. having said that, any reasonable interviewer would understand and sympathise with any technical issues or circumstances outside one's control. so don't worry!


be humble, honest and earnest. talk through 1—2 projects that you feel most proud of. they can be of any genre, but ideally what you want to do more of. start from the brief/problem statement, your role, research, your process, explorations...

ideas and iterations, feedback and self-critique and any other final thoughts. the project doesn't have to be perfect or finished or even good! let your enthusiasm, ability to learn, work in a team, be agile, and think critically shine through!


you can follow up the same day (if you missed asking any qs during the interview), or the next. hopefully, you've already got a brief on the selection process during the interview, so if it felt positive, check-in to understand when you might hear back.

feel free to ask for feedback on your portfolio (select 1—2 projects). ask specific qs, rather than "thoughts" on your portfolio. if you're keen on applying another time or for another role in the future, let the interviewer know. keep in touch!

YAY! firstly, do a little celebration dance! treat yo'self. then be sure to reply promptly with any other details or information needed by the HR or hiring team. finally, wear your best learning hat, and get to work. time to soak it all in. onwards and upwards!

which brings me to the end of this thread, and to the...
GOOD NEWS!
congratulations and welcome aboard our talented trio of design interns at @graphyapp— @sanyamjain97 @salonimhapsekar @abhaydesign

congratulations and welcome aboard our talented trio of design interns at @graphyapp— @sanyamjain97 @salonimhapsekar @abhaydesign
