Traditionally, students have completed summer internships to round out their resume before graduation, gaining valuable experiences and contacts in their chosen field of study. Many agree that an internship is a great way to increase chances for a full-time position, but how can you ensure that the internships you chose will work for you? Here are my top three suggestions:
1) Know what you really want out of a job. Employers surely know what they want out of their internships. Employers use internships as trial periods to assess if A) you can do the job B) if you want the job and C) if you are a good fit for the company. So the question is, would you consider working for the company offering the internship? Is it the right field or industry? Ask yourself, how will this internship help me accomplish my career goals?
2) Bypass tradition and complete more than one internship. According to a recent survey by Adecco of 500 graduates of four year degree programs, 71% feel they should have done something differently to prepare for the 'real world'. 18% of graduates surveyed say they would have done more internships. 29% of students surveyed say they would have networked more. Lindsey Redler, senior at Kennesaw State University believes she would have benefited from more internship experience, "The job market is really competitive right now and the good positions are highly contended for. The work experience you gain through an internship is a priceless tool for securing a job right out of college." Although there were no openings at the organization where she interned, she "was able to develop strong reference relationships, which can be a major aid in the job application process." (Click here for the top 10 things college graduates wish they had done differently)
3) Do not be afraid to approach companies, or business professionals you admire to find new opportunities for internships. Better yet, create your own opportunity. If a company or organization that you are interested in is not offering a formal internship, offer your services. Send your resume out to companies that you would like to work for, with a cover letter explaining your interest, and the benefit of hiring you as an intern. What is the worst thing that can happen? They could say no, but regard you personally as ambitious and goal-oriented, or they could say yes, and you could have the internship of your dreams on your own terms.
Please follow @Youth4Hire on twitter, to receive links for resources and internship opportunities! Also, Check out Eye of the Intern, the official blog for Internships.com, for interesting internship ideas!
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