Mid-Summer Moves: 5 Things to Do Now to Turn Your Internship Into a Job Offer

If you’re halfway through your summer internship, now is the perfect time to shift gears from learning the ropes to setting yourself up for a full-time offer. The honeymoon phase is over, and your managers are starting to evaluate who’s truly adding value. With a few focused actions, you can stand out in a sea of interns and increase your chances of getting that coveted return offer after graduation.

First, ask for a mid-summer check-in with your manager. Come prepared with a list of accomplishments so far, areas where you’d like to grow, and clear interest in continuing with the company after graduation. Managers rarely forget interns who take initiative and want feedback. Second, assess your workload—are you coasting or crushing it? Volunteer for something that stretches your skills or helps the team hit a big goal. Leaders notice when interns raise their hand for tough or unglamorous projects.

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of building relationships. Start setting up short coffee chats with people outside your immediate team—especially those who were once interns themselves. Ask smart questions and show curiosity about the company’s future. These informal connections often turn into advocates during hiring decisions. There’s still plenty of summer left to make a lasting impression—use it wisely, and you might just earn your way back before the season ends.

Here are 5 great questions to ask during your internship coffee chats to spark meaningful conversation and leave a strong impression:

• “What made you choose this company, and what’s kept you here?”
  This question invites honest insights and shows you're thinking about long-term fit and culture.
•  “If you could go back to when you were an intern or just starting out, what advice would you give yourself?”
  People love to reflect on their growth—and you’ll walk away with some valuable wisdom.
• “What does success look like in your role or department?”
  This helps you better understand performance expectations across the organization and shows you’re thinking beyond your current tasks.
• “Are there any projects or teams you’d recommend I learn more about before the summer ends?”
  This question signals curiosity and may lead to additional opportunities to get involved or connect with others.
• “How did you transition from your internship or entry-level role to where you are now?”
  Hearing someone’s career path—especially if it started where you are—can be inspiring and help you see your own next steps more clearly.

Pair these questions with genuine interest and a thank-you note afterward, and you'll build strong, lasting connections that could support your career well beyond this summer.