Every job field requires experience, and an internship is the perfect way to get an inside look at the career of your choice. Internships are a helpful learning tool and a great resume booster. Applying for an internship can be quite intimidating, so here are some tips you help you ace the application and interview process.
1. Get involved on campus.
Getting involved on campus is one of the most important things to prepare you for an internship. Employers enjoy seeing involvement, commitment, skills you contributed to your organization. Temple has hundreds of student organizations, so there is definitely something to fit everyone’s interests.
2. Be aware of social media presence.
Many employers are active on social media sites and check the accounts of their job candidates. Make sure you are aware of the content you are posting. According to The Muse, 3 of 4 hiring managers and recruiters check candidates’ social profiles, and 1 of 3 employers rejected candidates based on something they found in social profiles. Try to be aware of your social media image so it doesn’t affect your future employment in a negative way.
3. Network.
Networking is key in the job world. The more people you know in your field the better. Talk to professors and ask for any advice, connections or recommendations. They are some of the best connections to have. It is also a good idea to create a LinkedIn account. According to Forbes, “Over the past decade, LinkedIn has become an essential personal branding tool. It has never been more important to build and maintain a stellar LinkedIn profile. The virtual professional network has morphed from an online resume and networking site to a comprehensive personal branding resource.”
4. Create a resume.
A resume is a way to highlight skills and experience you have in a job or the field of work you wish to pursue. A resume should be limited to one page. Make sure you proofread your resume and have others look over it, including the career center. A mistake on a resume could cause a recruiter to immediately eliminate your chances. According to the Huffington Post, job recruiters spend only 6 seconds looking over a resume. Make sure you add information that will make you stand out from other possible employees.
5. Visit the Career Center.
The Temple career center is located in Mitten Hall room 220. It is a very helpful resource in preparing students with the tools needed to succeed. It offers various services to help increase confidence and success when applying for internships. Be sure to check if your individual school has a career center, too.
6. Use OwlNetwork to search for internships and jobs.
OwlNetwork is the perfect place to start your internship and job search. You can create your profile, upload your resume, search for employers and see the most recent job listings.
7. Be prepared.
Make sure you are prepared for interviews and any possible interaction with future employers. Professional dress it a must when going to a career fair or interview. It is important to research the company so you are prepared to ask questions and make comments regarding the company. Employers will be impressed if you did your homework. Head to the career center to hold a mock interview to know what to expect. This well help to take away some of your nervres when it comes to the actual interview. Determine some of your strengths and weaknesses ahead of time so you are prepared to discuss them. Remember to take extra copies of your cover letter and resume just in case they want another copy.
8. Follow up.
Be sure to follow up after your application process or interview. An email or letter shows interest in the position. It also the perfect way to thank the interviewer for their time and interest in you for the job.
9. Don’t be afraid of rejection.
Don’t let rejection stand in the way of your career path. Even if you don’t get a certain position, there are many more possible opportunities. Keep searching, applying, and preparing for the perfect job position, even if it takes time and effort.
The city of Brotherly Love is filled with opportunities, so don’t hesitate to take advantage of them. Even though the search for a job or internship can be a long journey, Temple offers a variety of resource to ease this process. Head to the Career center or visit their website for more helpful tips, upcoming events, and to learn more about opportunities and preparation for interviews, internships, and jobs. Good Luck on your internship search Owls!