Find Out!!! “Is An Unpaid Internship Really Worth It?”

By Susan Gitonga

Money plays a every vital role in our every day life, doesn’t it?

But what happens when you can’t seem to find a permanent job, and the only opportunities you are getting are unpaid internships?

What do you prioritize more, money or a chance to work?

Is the hustle of waking up early to go to a job where no form of allowance is given really worth it?

The answer to this question is a definite yes!

5 Reasons Why An Unpaid Internship Is Worth The Effort

1.If you don’t take an internship, you are already behind your peers

This is an honest view. It is a requirement in most colleges and Universities in Kenya that you should take up an internship before you graduate.

So, failing to serve as an intern will make you less qualified for a job as compared to your peers who went out to do internships.

2. It can help you figure out what you want to do with your career or after School

Just because the company giving you an opportunity to intern is not paying you does not mean that you have nothing to gain from them.

On the contrary, an internship will help you figure out your strengths and weaknesses. 

It will also give you a bird’s view of what you would like to pursue as a career.

E.g  Maybe you thought you would pursue Administration in School but during the internship, you realize that you don’t enjoy administrative work but you are better in HR.

Whichever the case is, an internship can be a great eye opener for you!

READ ALSO >>> I Regret Saying No To An Unpaid Internship

3. You will create many networks

Look at the bigger picture.

The connections you will create during your internship and priceless and very valuable.

Some contacts might serve as good referees for you who can write you a good recommendation letter.

Other contacts can help you secure a job in your line of interest.

Consider an Internship as an opportunity to network.

4. Your unpaid Internship can lead to permanent employment

Best believe that if you are diligent and hard working during your internship, you will be retained.

Sometimes companies will have interns on board in their companies to see whether or not they can absorb them permanently.

If you serve well in the capacity given to you, a role will be created for you.

James Mworia, the CEO of Centum Investments begun working there as an intern in the filing department.

He was a trained lawyer but he served in the filing department and was very diligent and hardworking in the role he was given .

In only 6 years he has risen to the top and is now the CEO of Kenya’s leading Investments Company.

That is a clear reflection of how an unpaid internship can open doors that one could not have imagined were possible!

5. Your CV will need it!

An employer will want to see some work experience indicated on your CV and this is where your unpaid internship comes in handy.

I personally interned thrice without pay and I have been able to build up my CV with tons of experience I have acquired from all my Internships.

In all the places I served, I took away great lessons that have moulded me in my profession.

An unpaid internship is definitely worth it. Go for it!

For further Career Advice/Coaching Book a session with us by sending an email to  melody@corporatestaffing.co.ke

Susan is a Communications Officer at Career Point Kenya. Email: susan@www.careerpointkenya.co.ke