It’s a well-known fact that employers prefer job candidates with applicable work experience. Professional Internships offer young people a way to gain that experience before having to enter the for-real job market. While not always easy to get, professional internships can help pave the way for a successful career as well as offer a glimpse into what certain careers are really like.

Unless you’ve got the luck, internship opportunities won’t magically land in your path. You’ve got to relentlessly search out.The process isn’t easy, but it is worth all the trouble in the end. Here are some tips to help you land a professional internship.

1.Begin looking early

You should start your internship search 9 months to one year prior to when you would like to begin your internship.

Target as many sources possible for an internship and call or send email to each one for information and an application. If a company or organization doesn’t offer an internship, ask about the possibility of creating one to fit your needs in exchange for your volunteer service.

The more internships you apply for, the better your chances at landing one. Plus, the application process is a good learning experience.

2.Networking

The key to finding a professional internship is in networking. Make the most of the contacts in your school as well as in your community. Ask your Friends,relatives,teachers and your school’s career counselor if they know of internship opportunities in your area. Talk to local companies to see if they can offer you a chance to work with them.

3. Determine if the internships you want to apply for are right for you.

Is the internship located in a place you will be able to live? Will the internship offer experience in a field you’re thinking about pursuing? Do you possess the necessary skills to succeed in the internship? Can you fit the work into your schedule?

It is important to make sure the internships you are applying for could become a feasible addition to your life.

4.Make sure you have what it takes to apply.

A quality resume and well-written cover letter are crucial to landing an internship.

Be sure to highlight the leadership and other skills you’ve acquired. Employers use this information to determine what skills and background you have as well as why you would like to work for their company or organization.

When filling out an application for an internship, be sure to address all of the objectives listed for the position. Tell the employer how you can use your skills and background to meet those objectives.

5.Persistent

Don’t end your internship search after you’ve sent off your resume and applications. Call or email to make sure your prospective internship employer received your materials. Ask if you could come in for an interview or if you can answer any questions about yourself and your background over the phone.

Basically, don’t give up until you have landed an internship.

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