Digital Sales and Strategy Intern Josh Alban chatted with us about their experience so far and their advice for making the most of a virtual IZEA internship. Josh is a senior at California State University, San Bernardino, majoring in communications studies with a concentration in media.
What made you want to intern at IZEA?
“I really liked how forward-thinking and innovative IZEA seemed to be. I liked the professionalism, detailed work, and creative approaches. My gut instinct was like, ‘Yeah, you need to apply to this.’”
How has your experience been with a virtual internship?
“It has been amazing! I prefer to work remotely since I am so busy between classes and volunteering, so this virtual internship has allowed me the flexibility to do more and learn from so many different people.”
What have been your responsibilities as a sales and strategy intern?
“So far, I have developed WGSN summary reports for marketers to leverage as well as assist my supervisors with creating ideas for brands they work with. Basically, I help with creating content ideas that brands can better position themselves with through influencer marketing.”
What have you learned?
“I have learned so much in the short amount of time at IZEA. Some include the different kinds of trends that are happening within the influencer marketing space, how to be better at influencer marketing, becoming more creative, networking with brands, crypto/NFTs, the metaverse, and just learning from great people in general.”
“To be honest, I have learned a lot about so many different brands that I want to buy from in the future.”
What are your career goals?
“My ideal career includes me being creative and collaborative, creating content that is inspiring and innovative. I want to leverage my own education and experience to do better. I want people to feel like they are part of the experience or see themselves in it. I want people to stop and really think, ‘Wow, this is great. I love this’ or ‘I haven’t thought about it like that. What else is there?’ I love creating social media content and strategies, especially content that has an impact on real people and their lives.”
What do you like most about your internship so far?
“What I like the most about my internship so far is how collaborative everyone is. I know that remote work can cause a lack of connection, but so far I have felt very connected to the company and people alike. I was kind of worried because some of my previous experience in remote work has been very disconnected or ‘just a job’ vibe; however, everyone at IZEA has been super nice and helpful.”
Any tips for future interns?
“Network! And work hard! Treat this like this is your full-time career job. Ask questions. Learn more about everyone. Listen. Go to as many meetings, events, etc., as you can.”
“I have learned a lot about the art of networking, especially as it relates to my future career. Of course be yourself and be authentic, but knowing how to network and then tap into that plethora of resources can really better position your career opportunities. As I always say, people are the best resources for help.”
Anything else you want to share?
“Thank you for allowing me to share my experience so far at IZEA. It has been great and while it is stressful sometimes, I know that being uncomfortable is where the real growth happens. I cannot wait to see what the future holds!”
Want to intern at IZEA? Visit the IZEA careers page.
