From an intern to a CEO: a look at long-term career paths
When we think about long-term career paths, we often envision starting at the bottom of the ladder and gradually working our way up to the top. However, in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing professional landscape, this traditional route is no longer the only option. With the rise of startups, remote work, and the gig economy, there are now countless paths to success and reaching the coveted role of CEO. One of these paths is starting as an intern and working your way up. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this unique and often overlooked career trajectory and explore how interns can become CEOs. 
The Rise of Internships
Internships have become an integral part of the modern job market. In fact, according to a Forbes study, 91% of employers said that hiring interns was a beneficial experience for their company. This is because internships provide a valuable opportunity for both the employer and the intern. For the employer, it’s a chance to assess talent, train potential future employees, and bring in fresh ideas and perspectives. Meanwhile, for the intern, it’s a chance to gain hands-on experience, develop new skills, and make valuable connections in their chosen industry.
Why Start as an Intern?
Starting as an intern may not seem like the most glamorous option for kickstarting your career, but there are several advantages to this path. For one, internships are often easier to secure compared to entry-level positions. They also offer a lower barrier to entry, as many internships do not require previous work experience or high-level qualifications. Additionally, as an intern, you’ll have the opportunity to test out different roles and industries before committing to a long-term career path. This can be especially helpful if you’re still unsure about what you want to do in the long run.
The Journey from Intern to CEO
So, what does the journey from intern to CEO actually look like? Let’s take a look at the steps involved:
Step 1: Make an Impression as an Intern
As an intern, you may be at the bottom of the totem pole, but this doesn’t mean you can’t make a memorable impression. In fact, many successful CEOs started off as interns and stood out for their hard work, dedication, and willingness to learn. Take advantage of this opportunity to show your value to the company and make a good impression on your superiors. This will increase your chances of being considered for a full-time role in the future.
Step 2: Take Advantage of Learning Opportunities
Internships are not just about completing tasks and gaining work experience. They’re also an opportunity to learn and develop new skills that will be valuable in your future career. Take advantage of any training and development opportunities provided by the company, and don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek feedback. A curious and proactive intern is more likely to be considered for a leadership role down the line.
Step 3: Network and Build Connections
Networking is a crucial aspect of career advancement, and as an intern, you have a unique opportunity to build connections with your colleagues and superiors. Attend company events, join professional organizations, and make efforts to get to know people in different departments. These connections can be valuable when it comes to finding job opportunities in the future, and they may even help you secure a higher-level position within the company.
Step 4: Work Your Way Up
After completing your internship, you can choose to move on to a different company or continue working for the same company in a full-time position. If you choose the latter and prove yourself to be a valuable employee, you’ll likely be given more responsibilities and opportunities for growth. Put in the hard work and dedication, and eventually, you may find yourself climbing the corporate ladder and reaching the coveted role of CEO.
Final Thoughts
Starting as an intern may not be the most common or traditional route to becoming a CEO, but it is a viable and increasingly popular option. This path offers opportunities for skill development, networking, and making a good impression on your superiors – all of which can help you stand out and advance in your career. So, if you’re considering becoming an intern, don’t underestimate the potential it has for your long-term career success.
The road to becoming a CEO may not be straightforward, but with hard work, dedication, and a bit of luck, it’s certainly possible – even if you start as an intern. So, embrace the journey, learn as much as you can, and who knows – you may just end up at the top of the ladder sooner than you think.
