Gearing up to hunt down an internship or job?
You probably feel a tad overwhelmed! We get it. It’s not as though you don’t have anything else going on…
As always, we want you to know we’re here with you through the process. In addition to all the videos, resources, and articles you’ll find below, here are a few starter tips to get the ball rolling, and we’ll add more soon. But come talk with us in the Launch Center if you need any additional guidance, or just to know that someone is along for the ride!
- Get clear on who you are and what interests you – Yes, this comes even before cleaning up the resume. Start on the Career Exploration tab if you haven’t already
- Build your foundational resume – You want this to be a document that will effectively sell you as a good fit for the types of roles you’re interested in
- If applicable to your space, create a LinkedIn profile – Some industries focus more on other platforms (for example, in Art and Design your Instagram or other online portfolio may be more important); but LinkedIn has become ubiquitous in many industries, for good reason. Prepare to be found (and find other people) on LinkedIn!
- Get organized – Create a spreadsheet listing opportunities and organizations of interest, where you are in the process with each, people you’ve spoken with at each, and what else you need to do to be competitive for them
- Identify your search tools – We typically recommend using Handshake and one other external platform. Today, that is often either LinkedIn or Indeed, depending on your preference and industry of interest. You may also add a platform or job board more specific to your field of interest
- Make a target list – This list will change over time, and that’s a good thing. But help yourself narrow your focus from the beginning by writing down 15-20 organizations (or fewer)
- Focus on relationship-building – Talk to people in your industry and role of interest, including at organizations on your target list. Start with people you know, but use LinkedIn and other resources to help you find new people to talk with
- Follow the tips on our other pages on networking, resumes, interview prep, and others – It all ties together
- Manage stress – Don’t allow yourself to do too much too fast. This is a challenging process, and you need to manage your mental health through it all. Take intentional breaks, and celebrate the wins along the way!
- Don’t do it alone – Take other people along for the ride with you. We want to help! Hope to see you in the Launch Center soon
More to come! But if you do even a part of this set of tips, you’ll be ahead of many other students who just use the “shotgun approach” to apply for random internships and jobs. Best of luck!
