Internships 101 – Steps to make Your Student Internship Application Stand Out
While some internship programs only acquire a few applications every semester, the very best programs always receive dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of applications. Because of so many students trying to get just one or two positions, you have to really be noticed to make it to the interview round of the company’s intern search.
When it comes to an internship application, experience isn’t what makes you a top candidate. Sure, you want to highlight anything relevant you have done previously, but the focus here is on learning, not just on providing a service to your employer. So, if you have experience, you are able to let it shine, but that is not the only way to stand out within the crowd. Begin with the basics:
– Be sure that your resume and cover letter have no typos or other errors. That’s the fastest way to get the application thrown on the “no” pile from the get-go. It shows the possibility employer that you aren’t sincere about wanting the internship.
– Stick to the directions completely. When the employer wants a list of your college’s internship requirements, as an example, be sure to include it whenever you apply. Again, not following directions is a quick way to get turned down without any consideration whatsoever.
– Address the cover letter to the correct person. In some cases, when companies put out an ad to have an internship opening, they let you know exactly who to contact, but that’s not necessarily the situation. Don’t think that you should send your application to the company’s owner – they may not be dealing with the internship program, and your letter may never reach the right hands. When in doubt, call and get how to address the letter. After you have your bases covered, you have to take you application up a notch. In the end, if 100 people submit an application for the internship, 80 – 90 of them will probably have well-written resumes and cover letters which follow the directions and are sent to the right person. It takes more than good grammar to acquire an internship!
One place you will surely shine is with your recommendation letters. If at all possible, find individuals the industry. Another way to make your application stand up is to follow up with a phone call. Some internship employers ask specifically that you do not call, but if they don’t, you show initiative by using up. If you feel uncomfortable speaking with someone on the phone, call at a time when you are able leave a message, like on a Saturday. Thank them for taking the time to check out your application and reiterate your interest.
Intership Placement UK recommends contacting a respected and experienced company for your UK Internship and to avoid the college internship scams type companies out there. Go with professional and established.
Processing your request, Please wait....
