1. How did you get started in the industry? How can someone who is interested in your work get started?
I actually grew up in the wine business. My grandfather started selling wine in 1938. I rebelled and went into another line of work only to come back to learn more about our family business. Although we have a long family history in this type of business, I was not able to bring much of that over to my current business other than the experience and knowledge.

There are many different areas of the wine business that starts at the winery, and ends at the retailer. Marketing and Sales are a couple of skills that can cross all the lines, and is the best way to get in the door.

2. What’s the future of your industry or job?
Although it is still a relatively small niche market, wine will always be a consumed.  And based on it’s growth over the last 100 years, it will only continue to grow.

3. What do you look for when you hire an intern or entry-level candidate?
I look for someone who has completed something major in their life, like graduating from college, even if it is not in our specialty.  That commitment to finishing something shows great dedication.  Another example would be someone who has worked for a one company for at least a couple of years, even if it is just a food service job.  This too shows that they will not move on to the “next best thing.”

4. What is one thing an intern can do to make a favorable impression?
An intern that is always asking questions and willing to take the time to understand is a great virtue.  Additionally, I am always grateful for their new perspectives and ideas.  Even if I do not chose to implement an idea, it shows me that they are willing to think beyond the task at hand.

5. Can you share a positive intern story and an intern horror story? No names needed…
I cannot think of any at this time.

Interested in interning with Annie? She’s currently looking for Social Media interns for both companies! Apply now.

Annie Rabin Arnold grew up in the retail wine business that began with her grandfather in 1938. When Ann reentered into the wine scene, she noticed a niche that was not clearly defined or well represented. Ann decided to go off on her own and fill that niche. The dream of representing organic wineries and wines from around the world is now a reality. On any given day you can find Ann visiting wineries, finding new recipes to enjoy with her family or simply enjoying her 3 year old daughter who may soon be the 4th generation wine aficionado. Today, Annie helps represent both Organic Wine Exchange (@organicwineex), an online retail wine sales company, and their partner company Natural Organic Web (@NatOrganicWeb).

Original Article:  Eye on the Intern