First jobs · 1 min read
Internship, trainee programme or permanent job?
These labels describe different opportunities. Read the duration, learning structure and payment terms instead of treating every junior-sounding title as entry level.
Start with eligibility
Check whether the employer wants current students, recent graduates, a specific qualification or existing professional registration. A trainee programme can still require experience. The word assistant does not establish that no experience is needed.
Clarify what you will actually do
Ask about supervision, learning objectives, ordinary tasks and how feedback is given. An opportunity should have a clear purpose beyond a vague promise of exposure. Keep any stated assessment or completion conditions.
Separate stipend from salary
Read the amount, payment frequency, travel or meal support and any deductions. A stipend is not automatically equivalent to a permanent salary package. Do not assume a training role is unpaid when the advert is simply silent.
Do not assume conversion
Ask what happens when the programme ends and whether any employment offer is guaranteed in writing. Use the experience to build evidence, but continue planning your next step if conversion depends on future vacancies or performance.