Author: Himanshi Naredi

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Ask, Don’t Assume: Volunteering, Shadowing, and Internships in I/O Psychology.

Starting a career in Industrial-Organizational (I/O) Psychology often involves navigating a maze of possibilities to gain real-world experience. Through my own journey, I’ve discovered that kicking off as an intern or volunteer can significantly expand opportunities within organizations led by industry experts. Commencing as an intern or volunteer before landing a full-time position presents numerous benefits. It offers a sneak peek into the organizational dynamics, team collaborations, and overall work culture.


Here are some strategies that can make these opportunities more accessible:

  1. The Power of Asking: Organizations like the British Psychological Society and Association for Business Psychology frequently offer volunteer roles that aren’t explicitly advertised. By reaching out through email or LinkedIn messages about potential ways to contribute, doors to unforeseen opportunities can swing open.
  2. Exchange Efforts for Exposure: Offering your help, even if it’s writing blogs or handling social media, can lead to opportunities for shadowing or volunteering. Even if you don’t get a job straight away, the experience and connections can be really useful.
  3. Transforming Rejection into Opportunity: If a desired position isn’t immediately available, proposing an internship could be a game-changer. It provides a chance for both parties to test compatibility, often evolving into a permanent role unexpectedly.
  4. Embracing Politeness and Initiative: Maintaining a respectful and open attitude is paramount. Employers and advisors appreciate honesty coupled with a proactive approach. Instead of accepting rejection passively, proactively discuss alternative ways to contribute or engage.

The journey to securing volunteering, shadowing, or internship roles in I/O Psychology is a blend of proactive outreach, offering assistance, and gracefully handling setbacks. Remember, asking is the key that unlocks doors that assumptions might keep shut.


About the Author

Himanshi Naredi is interested in Leadership, Psychometric Assessments, Workplace Wellbeing and using psychology to boost organizational performance. With a BSc in Psychology from King’s College London, she pursued an MSc in Occupational Psychology from Goldsmiths, University of London. Her work experience highlights her dedication to making workplaces better and helping organizations make smarter decisions.

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The Power of Networking

By Himanshi Naredi

As an Industrial-Organizational Psychology graduate, I’ve come to appreciate that success in this field isn’t solely about book smarts. Networking, an often-underestimated tool, holds the key to landing your dream job and expanding your professional horizons.

One of my most impactful career moves came through networking. I offered my services informally and for free to a team for few weeks. A year later, they reached out with a full-time paid offer. This experience underscores the potency of informal networking.

Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards; it’s about creating genuine connections. Engaging with professionals opens up fresh perspectives and offers invaluable insights. I’ve found that listening to others’ journeys and identifying shared experiences has propelled me forward in my own career.

Beyond personal experiences, networking offers I/O psychology graduates a wealth of opportunities. It helps you stay abreast of industry trends and innovations. Through networking, you’ll meet individuals who are steps ahead in their journey, offering mentorship and guidance.

However, it’s worth noting that I/O psychology programs often fall short in emphasizing the power of networking. Unlike business management degrees, opportunities for formal networking are limited within the academic realm. This leaves I/O graduates in the challenging position of navigating the networking landscape on their own.

Networking is not confined to specific events or formal settings. It can happen anywhere, from conferences to online platforms (like LinkedIn) and even informal gatherings. By actively seeking out and nurturing professional relationships, you’ll open doors to unforeseen opportunities.

To the I/O psychology graduates, I encourage you to recognize the potential of networking. Attend events, engage with professionals, and watch how it transforms your journey from promising to extraordinary. The connections you make today could very well be the stepping stones to your dream job tomorrow. Remember, networking isn’t just about advancing your career; it’s about forging meaningful connections that can shape your professional journey for years to come.

Pro-Tip: PsyPub is a great place to start!

About the Author

Himanshi Naredi is a graduate based in London, interested in Leadership, Psychometric Assessments, Workplace Wellbeing and using psychology to boost organizational performance. With a BSc in Psychology from King’s College London, she pursued an MSc in Occupational Psychology from Goldsmiths, University of London. Her work experience highlights her dedication to making workplaces better and helping organizations make smarter decisions.