If you’re like me, you’re currently waist-deep in a pile of summer internship applications. With each day, a deadline passes, a different application opens, and you’re probably feeling a little overwhelmed. I’m feeling the same way, and so are a lot of us. You aren’t alone. But you do need to keep up the hard work. Having a great résumé is essential when applying to internships, as its strength has a direct correlation to your chance of landing an interview. If you’re looking for a few ways to add value to your résumé, look no further! I’ve found a few ways to strengthen any résumé (without needless fluff or exaggerations).
1. Get Involved On Campus
On campus involvement not only shows potential employers that you are willing to make the most of your college experience, but that you are more than just the classes you take. Through most clubs and activities, you can learn skills that transfer well to the workplace. In my most recent interviews, HR representatives have asked me a lot about the clubs that I am a part of. I love telling them about my involvement with Her Campus UCF and how I’ve learned the ins and outs of social media as part of the marketing team. Sure, the semester is halfway over, but a lot of on campus organizations welcome new members throughout the semester. Reach out to a club you’re interested in on social media, and find out when the next meeting is!
2. Find a Part Time Job
I know it can seem like our part time jobs have no relation to what we want to do as a career, but this is not always the case. While you’re folding clothes at your local mall store, you’re learning to interact with customers and create positive experiences for them. As a waitress, you’re juggling multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. As you compile your résumé, keep these soft skills in mind. Every job provides relevant experience, as long as you make the most of it.
3. Learn A New Skill
For a lot of us, a specific hard skill can give us an edge over other potential interns or employees. Right now, I’m working on learning some web programming to have skills for a wider variety of jobs. Enroll in a Photoshop class, get a professional certification, or teach yourself computer code. Many internships call for tangible, concrete skills, and what better time than now to learn some?
4. Volunteer In Your Community
It seems like every time I look for résumé builders, human resources professionals are recommending that college students volunteer as a way to gain relevant work experience. Think about what causes matter most to you, and research local organizations to find out how you can help them out. Most volunteer coordinators want you to get the most of your experience because you are working for free, which gives you the chance to get relevant experience.
5. Start Something New
Are you good at crafting? Consider starting an Etsy shop. Is writing your thing? Start your own blog. Passionate about healthy eating? Create a YouTube channel showcasing your cooking skills. We live in a world where creating things is relatively easy, so don’t let fear hold you back! I started a blog last semester, and have spoken briefly about it in interviews. Show employers that you can do something!
You can do any of these things this week, so quit making excuses and get ready to have a kick-butt résumé!