Tips To Improve Your Chances Of Getting An Internship

The next best thing you can do or yourself after getting your qualification is to get an internship. This is how you can get a foot into the door and work yourself upwards. It’s often a tedious task if you don’t know how to go about it, that’s what we’re here to do. The list below should set you in the right direction, the rest is all up to your efforts.

1. Stay on top of the industry you are interested in

Because companies face thousands of applications for internships you need to stand out and make an impression. Showing passion about the field you are interested in will make an impression, and prove that you are truly passionate about the industry and willing to learn more. Easy ways to stay up-to-date are researching the latest industry news daily via the Internet, signing up for industry newsletters and joining online or physical groups in your field to make networking easy.

2. Start as early as possible to gain job experience

Many potential employers are interested in the level of experience one has in the field. Therefore, it is advised that students start looking for job experience in the field they are interested in advance, to gain a competitive advantage over other potential interns.

3. Start looking in advance

Researching and applying for internships well in advance could also be of advantage to students, or those looking to change career paths. Some job offers are posted within weeks of the position needing to be filled, and some months before. Make sure to search well in advance, to ensure you have time to prepare for your interview and that you can find placement. Be proactive and search the Internet, newspapers and other sources each and every day.

4. Where to look

Many people believe that the only way to find internships is on the internet. While this is important starting point, it is important not to limit yourself. A number of websites have been designed to help interns find internships so doing research on these sites will make finding internships less stressful.
Another way in which to find internships is by contacting companies and asking if they have any positions open. Not only will this ensure you have covered all your bases, but will also show interest and initiative – two positive aspects for job seekers.

5. Don’t limit yourself

While most job seekers or students would prefer to gain experience at a large, well-known company, it is important not to limit oneself. “It is important to remain open-minded when searching for internships. Experience in the industry is the most important factor of finding an internship, and small companies can provide this experience just as well as large corporations can. It may even be a little less stressful to start out at a smaller and more intimate company. Keep an open mind.

6. Volunteer to be the company’s first intern

Not all companies are looking to hire an intern. Offering your services would show initiative. Shadow people in the department you want to work in and you might never know how that experience might end.