Professionalism, soft skills key to internship success — HR Expert

Human Resource (HR) professional Cynthia Tattari has urged students and job seekers to approach internship opportunities with intentionality, emphasizing that the value of such programs goes beyond technical skills and includes the development of vital soft skills and professional behavior.

In recent years, human resource professionals across Ghana have increasingly advocated for better career orientation in universities and greater student exposure to real-world environments.

However, barriers remain. Many students lack access to structured internship programs, professional career services, or awareness of digital job platforms that offer internship listings and networking opportunities.

Speaking on the Business Breakfast on Zed FM, Mrs. Tattari explained that while many interns may only be tasked with basic assignments such as photocopying or running errands, these tasks are opportunities to assess character and potential.

“Even when you think no one is paying attention, believe me, people are watching. Your humility, the way you communicate, your punctuality, and overall demeanor are all being noted. It’s not just about how well you use a computer, sometimes, it’s your response to a simple assignment that reveals your initiative and leadership potential,” she stated.

Mrs. Tattari noted that companies sometimes limit interns’ access to sensitive operations due to security and confidentiality concerns, but this doesn’t mean interns aren’t learning.

“Even if you’re kept at the surface level, there are valuable soft skills to gain, how to ask questions, how to take initiative, how to present yourself professionally.”

She advised students to clearly define their internship goals and proactively seek opportunities by visiting company websites, networking, and using platforms like LinkedIn.

However, she expressed concern that many students remain unaware of LinkedIn’s benefits.

“Some think it’s boring. But LinkedIn is where many internship openings are shared,” the HR expert emphasized.

She urged lecturers and institutions to better prepare students for professional networking. She also encouraged students to speak up about their goals.

Mrs. Tattari recommended signing up with career placement offices, which she described as effective bridges between students and industry. These services, she said, often provide CV guidance, mock interviews, and placement support that reduce the burden on job seekers.

She stressed that how a candidate presents themselves can make or break their chances, even before an interview starts.

“Your CV might get you in the door, but how you show up can close that door just as quickly,” she cautioned.