All About Tryst Lingerie:

Parfait Team: What inspired you to start a business?

Shana: I have an entrepreneurial spirit and have always owned my own businesses. Anita (my business partner) and I like being our own bosses. 

PT: What about the lingerie industry interested you?  

Shana: Since I was a teen I always struggled with finding a bra that fit that wasn’t ugly. I decided that I wanted to help women find beautiful and comfortable lingerie, specifically bras, that fit them properly. When I got into the industry there was not a lot available for larger cupped women but there is a lot more choice for women these days.

Image via Tryst Lingerie

PT: Your store is located in Toronto, ON. How did you decide on the location?

Shana & Anita: We are Toronto locals. We love our city.

Shana: Being able to help women has always been my main focus. I saw a lack of variety in the stores in Toronto and wanted to fill that gap.

PT: Tell us about your store name. What inspired the name Tryst Lingerie? 

Shana: My mum, now retired, was our 3^rd business partner and she came up with the name. Tryst means a private, romantic rendezvous. We believe that buying lingerie should be as pleasurable as a tryst.

PT: What do you enjoy most about your local community?

Shana & Anita: We have just moved to the Toronto neighbourhood known as West Queen West. This area was voted by Vogue magazine as North America’s hippest district and second in the world. We are surrounded by amazing, independent clothing shopping and cool cafes and restaurants. Our new BIA is very active – we even have bee hotels in our street-scaping. The area is also very LGBTQ positive.

Image via Tryst Lingerie

Bra Fitting at Tryst Lingerie:

PT: Why is it important for women to get a professional bra fitting?  

Shana & Anita: If a woman can be fit in a boutique that carries many sizes and styles she has more options in finding a bra that fits her well. It’s important for her to have someone who knows how stock fits on different size breasts. A professional fitter can identify different shaped breasts and knows what merchandise would fit that customer. The customer benefits from all of our product knowledge and large selection of merchandise.

PT: What do you wish all women knew about lingerie and professional bra fitting?

Shana & Anita: That it is not painful and we don’t need to see you naked (topless) to fit you in a bra.

PT: You’re committed to offering a diverse range of styles and sizes for your customers. What do you look for when selecting new styles?

Shana & Anita: One of the things we look for is a style that fills voids in our stock. If we need specific shapes in certain sizes we keep our eyes open for that. We base some of our ordering on shapes and styles that have worked well for us in the past.

Image via Tryst Lingerie

PT: What is the largest bra size you carry?

Shana & Anita: We carry up to an English K or European 0 and the biggest back that we have a variety in is 46.

PT: How many bras does a woman actually need in her lingerie wardrobe?

Shana & Anita: Ideally enough so that she always has a freshly washed bra to wear. So this would depend on how often a customer wants to do laundry. And she might want a strapless and sports bra as well. So that might mean at least 9 bras if she does her laundry once a week.

PT: What can you tell our readers about the bra fitting experience at Tryst Lingerie?

Shana & Anita: A fitting at Tryst begins with a quick measurement and a two-way conversation to determine what the customer is looking for. We start with a well-fitting bra to determine the customer’s size and proceed to bring her bras to try based on her needs.

PT: We love that you offer appointments for bra fitting. How can we schedule an appointment?

Shana & Anita: Just drop in. No appointment necessary at Tryst.

Image via Tryst Lingerie

Shop at Tryst Lingerie

Store Address: 711 Queen Street West M6J 1E6, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Phone Number: (647) 430-0994

Website: Tryst Lingerie

To find a lingerie specialty store near you, visit our store locator here.

Feature image: Tryst Lingerie

With email, social media, and free Wi-Fi everywhere, it can be easy to feel as though you can never shut off from work — even when finally taking a vacation. But vacations from work are necessary to help you feel rejuvenated, rested, and energized when you return. I know I have a difficult time completely switching off from work, but it is possible to take a step back, especially when I remember that I’m a better worker when I return. I think one thing that keeps us all hooked to our job worries when we are away is the worry that something will occur while we are away that requires our attention. But, if you truly think about it, it is likely that work will go on as normal while you are away. Let your job stresses melt away when you get away, so that you feel refreshed when you return.

1.  Choose an accommodation without Wi-Fi

If you have a problem switching off from work when there is Internet around, consider choosing an accommodation without free Wi-Fi. That way, you won’t be tempted to check your email while poolside and you can’t work virtually from your room, forcing you to go out and enjoy yourself.

2.  Set up an email autoresponder

After you remind your colleagues and bosses prior to leaving for vacation, set up an email autoresponder that states you are out of office and when you’ll return. Colleagues, bosses, and clients can easily forget you’re not in, so a gentle reminder lets them know you’ve received their email and that you’ll respond when you return.

3.  Allot yourself 30 minutes of work/internet time (only if you must!)

Shhh … I’m going to break the rules for a minute. Since I work for myself, I typically do work — a tiny bit — when I’m on vacation. But, I only allot myself 30 minutes maximum to check my email each morning, with a cup of coffee in hand. This allows me to handle anything urgent that might come up or send along any finalized projects. This gives me the rest of the day and night to enjoy my vacation guilt free and without worry. Whether you need to spend a bit of time in the morning, at night, or during your child’s naptime, do it, but don’t let it interrupt your vacation.

If you’ve chosen to stay at an accommodation without Internet (good on you!), take this chance to explore the local café scene. Not only will this get you out of your accommodation, but you’ll also get to experience a bit of local culture while spending your 30 minutes of allotted work time in a cafe.

4.  Leave your computer at home

If you really need to switch off and allow yourself some time to replenish your creativity, leave your laptop at home. If you don’t have your computer with you, you won’t be tempted to open it up and work on projects.

5.  Don’t feel guilty

Everyone needs a vacation from time to time; you shouldn’t feel guilty about completely forgetting about work while you’re gone. And remember, the majority of things that come up can either be dealt with by someone else or can wait until you return. So, enjoy your vacation and return to your job refreshed and relaxed.

Entertaining, be it colleagues, friends, or family, has a bad reputation for being expensive. From purchasing extra food, supplying drinks, and decorating, having people over to your home can really put stress on your budget. But, entertaining doesn’t have to cost a fortune. You can host parties in your home without worrying about spending more than usual during your weekly grocery store run. All you need to do is pick the right time to host, affordably tasty food to serve, and avoid going over the top. Whether you are on a strict budget or not, saving a little extra money certainly can’t hurt. So, take this as a challenge to see how affordable you can make your next get together.

1.  Potluck-style party

Depending on the crowd, you could choose to host a potluck-style party where guests are asked to bring a dish to share. I love this option when you are entertaining on a budget, since you get to taste different foods and all of the pressure for cooking (and spending money on food) isn’t on your shoulders. Most guests are also more than willing to bring complimentary dishes or drinks, so you shouldn’t feel uncomfortable asking. I’ve found that when you invite friends, family, or colleagues to a casual potluck, it is best to let them know what you’ll be making. This helps your guests to also plan what they can prepare.

My favorite foods to prepare for a lunch or dinner potluck are fresh tortellini, a large salad, pasta salad, or chips with homemade salsa, guacamole, and/or a Za’atar beetroot dip.

2.  Pick the meal carefully

Just as with going out to eat in a restaurant, breakfast tends to be the cheapest meal of the day while dinner is often the most expensive. Opting to entertain for breakfast or brunch can save a serious amount of money. Plus, everyone loves spending a relaxing brunch at a friend’s house. And don’t feel shy about hosting a potluck brunch if your budget really is tight!

My food picks for hosting brunch include a yummy quick bread or crumb cake, bagels and cream cheese, fresh fruit salad, and yogurt parfait with fruit, granola, and honey. If you are concerned about picky eaters or want to provide a bit of fun, you could turn the yogurt parfait into a make-your-own station, with different granola, fruit, honey, and nuts on offer. Add a freshly brewed pot of coffee and options for tea, and you’ve got yourself a perfect brunch get together.

If breakfast isn’t your thing, how about hosting a happy hour or aperitivo? You could provide light snacks like chips and dip, a bread, cheese, and meat platter, and sliced vegetables with dip. Not only are those snacks tasty, they are also easy to throw together when you get home from work. Perhaps supply a bottle of wine or six pack of beer and ask your guests to do the same. Then you are all set for a fun after work party!

3.  Use loyalty cards when shopping

I love loyalty cards. While doing your regular shopping, you can take advantage of special sales or deals and often accumulate points that can go towards future shopping trips. Whenever possible, I use a loyalty card, especially when shopping for a party since discounts really do add up to major savings.

4.  Keep it casual

Hosting a casual party is much less stressful because you can ask your guests to bring a dish and you don’t need to worry about a special outfit or decorating. A casual party doesn’t require anything more than cleaning up, preparing a dish or two, and setting out utensils, plates, glasses, and napkins.

Along the same lines as keeping it casual, try not to go over the top. At family gatherings when I’m not hosting, I’ve noticed that there is always enough food to feed a small army and I never leave without a packed Tupperware full of leftovers. While I love leftovers, it isn’t really necessary to offer so much food when you host a party. All you need are a few solid options to keep guests fed and having fun.

Have you ever had a bra shopping experience that quickly turned sour?

Maybe the sales associate tried to put you in a size you knew you didn’t wear. Or maybe you left the store frustrated by the lack of customer service (like being forgotten about in the fitting room when you’re waiting for the sales associate to bring you a different size).

It’s easy to feel like no one understands you when you’ve spent time in a store and have nothing to show for it. No one wants or expects their shopping trips to turn into bad experiences.

If you’re tired of walking out of stores annoyed and empty handed, read on for three red flags to watch out for when you’re shopping for new bras.

1.  When you’re told that they don’t have your size, but “this size will work.”

How many times have you walked into a store and left feeling like the sales associate just wanted to make a sale?

When you’re trying on bras, you’ll know immediately if something isn’t fitting right. Trust your intuition. And shop elsewhere if someone tells you you should wear a 38DD bra when you know for sure you wear a 32DDD and they just don’t have your size in stock.

2.  When you realize the sales associate isn’t trained in bra fitting.

Not all lingerie stores train their sales associates in bra fitting. For the stores that do train their employees, the length and depth of the training program can vary. Some range from a few hours to a few months or more.

Most specialty boutiques have extensive training programs that ensure the sales associate has fit hundreds of women (often under the supervision of an experienced fitter) before she does any bra fittings on her own. This means that she has worked with a lot of different women and should know exactly what you need, saving you time and money. Plus, she’s trained to fit you in the right size, so she won’t try to squeeze you into a size that doesn’t fit just to sell you something.

3.  When the sales associate doesn’t respect your personal space.

If you’ve ever had a bra fitting, you know how intimate bra fittings can be. Professional bra fitters create an environment where you feel comfortable getting fitted and letting someone into your personal space.

If you feel uncomfortable at any time during the bra fitting or shopping trip, speak up. If you want to try on bras privately and without help, let the bra fitter know. And if the store can’t provide what you’re looking for, won’t give you your space, or they’re just not understanding of what you need, thank them for their help and be on your way.

Have you ever had a bad bra shopping experience?

While the gender pay gap continues to be a struggle for women around the globe, what we do with our money can set us apart – and set us up for a better life and retirement. The key is knowing how to invest, as women, before we buy the first stock, or open that first savings account. Here are 5 things to consider before investing:

1.  Take an investing course.

Yes, I said it. The ‘education’ word. When do we have time to take a course on investing when we’re already working 40 hours a week, raising kids, spending time with our spouses, and having a life? Taking an investing course won’t be a simple thing, but it will be worth it because you’ll come out of the course feeling more confident about what all those terms your HR rep at work or your personal investment guy says.

2.  Invest in companies you use.

My husband is a huge fan of Pepsi; I am a huge fan of Sharpies. When it came time to diversify our portfolio, he chose to invest a percentage in PepsiCo, while I put a percentage in Newell Brands. Now, every time I buy Sharpies, I feel like I’m investing not only in a great pen, but in our future.

3.  Invest in companies you admire.

Is there a business that, for example, builds water wells in Africa or that supports girl’s schools in India? Why not invest your money with a company that gives back to the world? It goes back to the fact that as women, we are nurturers – investing in companies that vie back allows us to nurture the whole world.

4.  Invest in women led companies.

Not just because we’re all about girl power, but because, historically speaking, women-led, publicly-traded companies have performed better than their male-led counterparts. That doesn’t just mean companies with female CEOs, but companies with larger numbers of women on their board of directors or in other leadership roles.

5.  Don’t let investing stress you out.

As women, we are nurturers, and that nurturing can make us more averse to high-risk investing. If that sounds like you, don’t beat yourself up about not investing thousands in the volatile stock market every month. Instead, look at longer term investments and those that are less volatile. There is nothing wrong with growing that nest egg at a slower pace.

While our attitudes and beliefs about money start in childhood, we can always develop better money saving habits.

{Editor’s Note: This blog post references an opinion and is for information purposes only.  It is not intended to be investment advice.  Seek a duly licensed professional for investment advice.}

I’m quickly approaching my 9^th year of living far away from my family and friends; the closest I’ve lived over the 9 years was a 5 hour flight and the farthest was a 24 hour trip. While it is my choice to live so far away (and I do love the experiences it brings) it can be difficult to maintain relationships with parents, siblings, other close family members, and friends. But it is possible to maintain and even grow these relationships as long as you are willing to put in a little bit of work. Here are my five favorite tips for staying connected with friends and family:

1.  Skype

If you’ve not heard of it before, Skype is a really awesome video chat service that is free if calling from one Skype account to another. Being able to video chat with friends and family is such a great way to stay in touch and even feel like you are much closer to each other than you actually are. I have a weekly Skype date with my parents while they are eating breakfast and I’m cooking dinner. It really feels special to spend part of my day with them each week and to catch up on what’s new almost in person.

2.  Visits

Though flying back to visit my family in the U.S. gets expensive, this is also easily one of the best ways to build relationships. When I visit the U.S., my son gets to spend days with his grandparents, we lounge at the beach, and sometimes we even vacation together. The memories we build certainly out-weigh the cost of the flight.

At this point in my life my friends are scattered all over the world, but I do my absolute best to visit when I can. This means budgeting and planning, often times way in advance, so that we can manage a visit. Visits certainly don’t happen every year, and sometimes not even every other year, but when they do happen, they are truly a special, wonderful time for everyone. These visits re-charge our relationships and bring us even closer.

3.  WhatsApp

WhatsApp is relatively new to me, but I love it. This phone app allows you to message friends, send pictures, and make phone calls to other users around the world — also for free! I love that I can message a friend a picture of our home, or send my sister a picture of her nephew. Real time chats are just like sending text messages, but without the high international costs.

4.  Celebrate important dates

One of my very close friends who lives very far away just told me she is pregnant with her second child. I’m super excited for her and as soon as she told me, I started making a little list of items I’d like to send her to welcome the little one, and to treat her older son. Celebrating births, birthdays, weddings, and other important events are essential for feeling closer and more connected with friends and family who aren’t close enough to drop by.

Though living so far away means I don’t get to be at every birthday party or graduation, I can still let my loved ones know that I’m thinking of them by sending letters, postcards, small gifts, or simply writing an email.

5.  Email

Emails are a quick, easy, and free way to stay in touch with loved ones from afar. This is also probably the most obvious way to keep in touch and works pretty well even with those who are not so tech savvy.

If you, too, live far away from family or friends, keep in mind that you may lose touch with some people over time. Though it can be sad to see relationships change or disappear, do try to remember that you’re lives are following different paths and you’re both filling it with different experiences and new friends.

Like finding the right bra, finding the right swimsuit can be an effort in frustration. A top that fits may be paired with bottoms that don’t, and vice versa. Here are a few tips to help you find the right swimsuit for you this summer.

Pear

For pear shapes, keep the attention up top. Curvy hips are beautiful, and the right suit will help you embrace that curve! Choose a top that bares your shoulders, as a lot of strap-detail, or accentuates the bust. This will draw eyes to your shoulders – and we all have great shoulders! Don’t try to hide curvy hips in boy-shorts or bottoms with a thick band, this will only accentuate the hips, and could make you self-conscious.

Apple

For apple shapes, remember to support the girls! Halter suits may look beautiful in the store, but after a few minutes in the water, the material can begin to sag. Then, you’ll spend your beach day tugging at the straps trying to tighten them up. Look for suits that include underwire or that have extra support in the bra area; try looking for suits that include a cup size – just like your bra! – for the best fit and support. Hint: the wider the band, the more support you’ll get.

Related: How To Define Your Swimsuit Style

Flair One Piece Swimsuit S8006 in Black

Small Bust

For those with a smaller bust, triangle or bandeau tops, ruffles or even padded/push-up tops were practically made for you!

Curvy

If you’re concerned about showing off your tummy – try a one-piece or a two-piece with high waist bottoms. A fitted seam at the waist naturally slims the tummy and waist, so look into suits that include this. You could also opt for a tankini-style top, with a bit of fabric over your torso, rather than a traditional bikini top, and pair with your favorite swimsuit bottoms.

Last minute reminders

Remember that water makes suits stretch so if the suit feels loose in the store, try sizing down. If the choice is trendy-but-uncomfortable or classic-but-fitted, go classic-and-fitted all the way because that will make you more comfortable. Comfort is key in every swimsuit decision – because when we’re comfortable we feel more capable, more beautiful, and more at ease with our surroundings.

Whatever your body type, go into swimsuit shopping prepared to try on plenty of different suits because you never know what suit will make you feel like a million bucks!

Related: Worth The Investment: Bra Sized Swimwear

Flair One Piece Swimsuit S8006 in Black

We Highly Recommend

If you’re shopping for a swimsuit that fits your bust perfectly, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find swimsuit tops that stay in place, especially when you’re shopping on your own. If you’re full-busted and you’ve struggled with finding a flattering swimsuit top or if you’ve never tried a bra-sized swim top before, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings and carry a selection of swimsuits and swimsuit tops. Their expert bra fitters can help take the pain and frustration out of swimsuit shopping and do all the work for you. They can help you find a bra-sized swimsuit top with the support and lift that you’re looking for and they can also help you find new everyday bras that fit well and feel good. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best swimsuits are hiding.

If you’re not happy with the swimsuits in your closet, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy swimsuit shopping!

Featured image swimwear:

Flair One Piece Swimsuit S8006 in Black

We’ve all been there, we go out after work and get home way later than expected. You’re so tired, you don’t want to brush your teeth, take your makeup off or remove your bra. There’s countless information about whether or not it is safe to sleep in your bra, and that’s what we will discuss in this article.

Many experts claim that there is no evidence that any type of bra is harmful in any way. Perhaps one of the most common myths is the link between wearing a bra at night and an increased breast cancer risk. A 2014 case study was conducted by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center found that no aspect of wearing a bra including frequency of wear had any link to breast cancer whatsoever.

Now that we’ve discuss that important thing, are there any health benefits to wearing a bra while you sleep at night? Some women believe that wearing one will help them maintain their round shape and perkiness. Many doctors say that our breast tissue is replaced by fat as we age, so nothing including a bra can prevent the pull that will occur. Also, pregnancy and breastfeeding can lead to this sagging look women try to avoid as much as possible too.

Related Post: Can Underwire Bras Cause Pain?

Mod By Parfait Butterfly Unlined Wire Bra A1402 in Butterfly Print & Mod By Parfait Butterfly Bikini A1403 in Butterfly Print

Ultimately if you feel okay sleeping without a bra on at night, then do it. If you have a larger chest and may feel more comfortable with them secure, that’s okay too. Much like other things regarding our health as women, wearing a bra at night is a personal decision. Many bra experts suggest even wearing a bralette, especially for larger-size women, who may experience pain without support throughout the night. For many, it simply is just uncomfortable to wear one as they try to sleep.

When sleeping with a bra, wear a soft-cup, wireless bra if you opt to wear one as it will lead to the least amount of discomfort. Also, make sure the bra you choose fits properly as a bra that is too tight constricts or blocks circulation. This can lead to lymphatic blockage where fluid accumulation can occur in the breasts.

When it comes to wearing a bra as you sleep, do whatever makes you the most comfortable. After all, it’s your health and your decision.

Related Post: What Are Bralettes And How Do I Wear Them?

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Feature image lingerie:

Mod By Parfait Modern T-Shirt Padded Bra A1381 | Mod By Parfait Modern Hipster A1385 in Bare

I’m sure I’m not the only one who has wondered, “how do bra sizes work?” Learning how to read a bra size tag doesn’t have to be difficult. If you feel confused in a sea of different letters and numbers, you are not alone. Bra sizing is difficult. Not only is it difficult, but so many women wear the wrong size bra, making a bra fitting important.

Understanding Band/Cup Sizes

Traditional bras include a letter and a number, for example 38C. The number represents the band size and the letter, the cup size. To get this number, measure tightly around the bottom of a bra band while wearing it. Round to the nearest whole number. Add two if the number is even and three if the number is odd. This is known as your band size.

In terms of the cup size, measure around your chest again placing the measuring tape at the fullest part of the bust. The tape measure should be parallel to the floor. Subtract your band size from your bust size. If the difference is 1, your cup size is A and so on. This measurement refers to the size of your breast in relation to your rib cage. It’s important to note that some bra fitting experts don’t agree with this method of measuring your cup size and suggest trying on different cup size bras to find the best fit for your particular bust. Ultimately, cup size doesn’t represent volume, but instead the different between the dimensions of the breast and the rib cage. It is not possible to determine someone’s true breast size by their cup size along.

Remember that this is a guide. Bra sizing isn’t standard and like clothing designers, bra manufacturers will determine their own fit. You may wear a different size in different brands, so regular sizing is important. Also, don’t assume your bra size will always remain the same. Losing weight, becoming pregnant or breastfeeding are all instances that may affect your bra size.

Related Post: 7 Signs You Are Wearing The Wrong Bra Size

Mod By Parfait Sweetheart Padded Bra A1391 | Mod By Parfait Sweetheart Hipster A1395 in Bright White/Almond Blossom

How Does Sister Sizing Work?

Bra sizes that are similar in breast volume are referred to as sister sizes. These sizes demonstrate that if your bra cup fits your breast perfectly, but you need a different band size (because it is too loose or too tight) that you will need to change your cup size to achieve the same fit. One’s sister size will depend on their current cup size and the fit of their bra.

Learning your sister size can be determined by a few questions:

Do your cups fit seamlessly and smoothly without spilling?

If yes, continue on, if no, then your bra cups aren’t fitting as they should and you need a professional bra fitting.

Which hook setting do you use?

If the tightest, sister size up (One size larger than your current bra and one letter up). If you use the loosest, sister size down (one size smaller and one letter larger).

Ultimately, having a bra that fits is important and can be a stressful journey. In reality, more than one size bra may fit you. That should be exciting, but to many, it just means a longer hunt to finding the dream bra that does the job right the first time. Understanding all the components to a proper bra size and fitting will help you get closer and closer to that perfect fit. Learning how to read a bra size tag and how sister sizes work are just two more life lessons for girls to master in their lifetime. I’m still working on it! Happy bra shopping!

How do you find a bra that fits? A bra fitting specialist can help you find the proper bra and to understand how do bra sizes work. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Related Post: 6 Bra Care Tips You Probably Didn’t Know

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Mod By Parfait Sweetheart Padded Bra A1391 | Mod By Parfait Sweetheart Hipster A1395 in Bright White/Almond Blossom

Whether you’re trying to make it in your chosen career path, want to see if you enjoy a certain job type, or are just looking for some extra cash, internships can provide invaluable experience and great fodder for building your resume. Here are a few ways to make the most of your time as an intern, whatever your industry!

1.  Find a mentor.

Whether your internship is seasonal, or year long, finding a mentor who can challenge your mindset and open up new possibilities to you is always worthwhile. Try finding someone outside of your team, even outside of your department, that inspires you. Maybe their name gets mentioned a lot in your meetings, or your coworkers have nothing but nice things to say about this person. Or take the opposite approach, and find someone who other people struggle to relate to. That doesn’t mean finding the most abrasive or insulting person at your job, but having insight into a driven, complicated person could give you an advantage in the office; learning to work well with different types of people is always beneficial.

2.  Always under promise and over deliver.

Many make the mistake of setting unrealistic deadlines, suddenly getting swamped with work, and then not being able to deliver the work as promised. If you don’t have a consistent workload, start by finding out if the person who has assigned you the job has a drop date: the date the work has to be done by. They’ll either give you a hard deadline, and then you have your answer, or they’ll give you a vague answer, like “whenever you can get it done” or “by the end of the week.” Then you can schedule your work by priority, knowing that if you need the extra time on certain tasks, you have it. This way, your getting your work done with expediency, and hopefully delivering good quality work under the deadline set.

3.  Don’t be the first one to leave.

In cubicle world in particular, someone is always watching. You don’t want to get a reputation for being the first one out the door when the clock strikes 5pm, because it makes you look like you don’t want to be there (and even if you don’t, you don’t want to give that impression). You want your coworkers to see you as eager to learn, full of enthusiasm for the job, and busy. Busy people don’t leave just because the work day is “officially” over. So take your time, stop and socialize, and leave a lasting impression on your coworkers as someone who actually wants to be there. That’s what they’ll remember long after you’re gone.

4.  Show that you’re invested in the internship and willing to help out.

Whether you’re doing coffee runs, making cold calls, or photocopying, always show willingness to do the work given to you. Your coworkers know it’s boring grunt work, and often they can’t help that. But if you keep showing up with enthusiasm, and showing a willingness to do anything they throw you’re way, they are more likely to give you the good stuff when it pops up, because they know you really want to succeed.

5.  Always ask for more.

Don’t sit idle. You’re there to learn, to succeed, and to hopefully be challenged in your role. Some internships have a lot of down time, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Remember that mentor you have? Ask your boss if it’s okay if you shadow them for a day (or one of your other teammates or coworkers). Found a cool seminar you could do online? Send it to your boss and ask if you can take it over your lunch break. Hear about a project you think sounds exciting? Tell your boss you want in on it. This all goes back to showing willing: if you put in the time to find work and projects or tasks to fill your time, you’re going to make a much better impression on your boss and coworkers than if you sit at your desk doing nothing and playing on your phone.

6.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

This is a common mistake that newbies make. Whether it’s an assignment that confuses you or a project you’re unsure about, always ask questions. People would much rather you ask questions now and get the job done right than have to backtrack later, or even worse, spend time having to fix your mistakes. This also applies to meetings and projects you might be sitting in on: if you have questions, voice them. Curiosity is good, and wanting to learn more is never a bad thing.

7.  Build Relationships

Internships are great way to foster relationships and build a foundation for future work connections. Not only can you earn recommendations through your coworkers, but you can also find future mentors and bosses through internships. The best way to do this is stay in touch with the people you worked for (and with) during your internship. Update them on your career choices, your work applications, and your future endeavors. It may feel awkward to keep superficial connections alive, but if you’ve made a good impression through your internship, most people will be happy to help you further your career. You don’t have to email them weekly, or even monthly, but touching base every few months to let them know how you’re faring, and to ask them if they’ve heard of any opportunities in your field, will keep you top of mind in case any positions open up.