8 Ways to Secure Your Internship
Written by: Anastasia Warren
Most of us have been there at some point in our lives: in need of a certain internship or job, in need of something to advance in our careers. The search can be scary, but it can also be rewarding, if you do it right.
As you embark on this process, use these 8 tips to set yourself up for success.
1. Get experience.
Whatever field you are going into, make sure your resume isn’t empty. Submit writing to different publications, create a personal blog, volunteer to help a non-profit with PR efforts or get involved with an organization related to your career choice. Getting this hands-on experience in some form will be invaluable through your job hunt.
Reach out to professionals in your field for advice (network, network and network some more) for opportunities to get experience. Just because you “have no formal work experience” doesn’t mean you can’t gain some in other ways!
2. Outline that experience
Once you have relevant experience, make sure to present it in a way that makes sense to anyone who may see it in the future. Ask mentors to look over your resume, read articles on leveraging the potential of LinkedIn, have a professional edit your cover letter and make sure your portfolio is up-to-date and organized.
3. Do a little digging
Do a little digging on yourself. Google search your name and dig through your personal social media accounts. Do you like what you see? Chances are that if you don’t, your potential future employer won’t either.
4. Do your research
If you get to the point where you’ve applied and gotten an interview, it’s crucial to be well versed on your experience and what you bring to the table. But, take it one step further with additional research.
Research the company. Research what they are currently doing in your area and think of new ideas the company could potentially implement. Know the company’s mission, clients and any other relevant information. This will show that you care, you want the position and you will be ready if and when you are offered the position.
5. Look professional
Dress up. Since you’ve done your research, you might realize that the company has a more casual atmosphere. But dress up before you dress down. Looking professional shows that you care about the position and that you respect the company.
6. Be confident
Confidence is key. Your potential employer wants to know more about you; otherwise you wouldn’t have gotten the interview. Know your experience, know your skills and know your potential. Then, simply share that knowledge at the interview. If the job is the right fit it will work itself out. If it isn’t, something else will come along.
7. Follow up
Call to check in with the company and see if they need anything else from you. This is the perfect way to show that you want the position and are still thinking about it, so take that extra step.
8. Finally, try again
If it didn’t work out with this internship, look for another. If you take the time to look, you will start to find opportunities everywhere.
Every job isn’t a perfect fit, and that’s okay. Learn from the experience and take it with you to your next interview and as you continue on your career path.