You will gain invaluable experience from an internship and can learn more about your chosen field. This can make you stand out amongst a sea resumes.
It's not easy to get an internship. It requires time, research and some hustle. How to be a winner?
The first thing you should do is decide on the type of internship that you require. If you are searching for a short term project or long-term position, this will help to narrow your search. It will also keep you focused on what matters most to you.
When you know what you must do, check with the career service office or local internship board of your college for specific information about internships. See their job description to learn what skills employers value and the types of experience they seek.
Create a collection of your best works to include with your resume. This extra bit of documentation shows that you're serious about the company and the position, and can help your chances of landing an interview.
Your portfolio should showcase your best works and relate to the internship you are applying for. For example, if the internship requires you to manage social media accounts, a collection of your previous work managing that channel could be very helpful to your employer.
Personalize the resume and cover letters you send for each internship. The Career Services department at your school or the Internet can provide you with templates and information on how to create these documents.
Early submission is key to making a strong impression. However, don't wait until the last minute to submit yours; some companies don't accept applications until they're ready to hire, so it's worth checking their website or social media channels for updates on deadlines.
You'll look laziness if you use the same resume or cover letter to apply for multiple internships. Make sure you tailor each resume and cover letter to the specific role that you are applying for.
You can ask your mentors and classmates for advice. They may have firsthand experience of the internship that you are looking to secure. They can give you tips on how to prepare for an interview, as well as offer advice. Maybe they can even connect with a company alumnus who can provide additional support.
Visit your school's Career Center or go to a job fair for more in-person advice. They are great places to start the process of job searching, but you may also want to search for internships using online job boards.
Cold calling your dream employers isn't the most efficient way to find out about their jobs, but it works in some situations. It's important to be direct, though, as you don't want to come across as desperate.