Internship Opportunities - What Companies Look For In Interns

When seeking your next internship opportunity, no matter if it’s post-graduate or pre Graduate, it is essential to carefully weigh which to seek out. There are certain considerations you need to make before applying, other than location and employer. Pay attention to the qualities listed and the filtering tools you will use on Handshake for fine-tuning your search. Once you have found the perfect match for you, be sure to follow up and follow-up!

Your Handshake profile is a virtual tool for filtering the right opportunities for you. When choosing an internship opportunity, check the profile to see what employers are seeking in a candidate. You can search by type of position, industry, digital presence, geographic location, and many more, so that you are sure to find the best opportunities that are currently available.

Once you have determined which companies you wish to apply to, make sure you have all the necessary information to create your resume and application. If you are applying for paid internships, make sure to include all relevant degrees and certifications as well as any projects completed. Also, be sure to list all previous positions held and any areas of special responsibility you may have achieved.

The next step is to choose the companies you wish to send your resume to. The majority of paid internships are not advertised, and many do not post their hiring requirements online. It is important to thoroughly review each company's posting, both online and at their main office and call to confirm employment. When calling for after-campus jobs, make sure to specifically ask if there are any requirements for interns in your field. Many companies require experience in the field they are seeking instead of general information.

After confirming an internship opportunity and speaking with several hiring representatives, it is important to submit a cover letter and resume. Once you have received an acceptance, you should send a payment or resume package. Do not send your financial aid application until after you have received an acceptance. Do not wait to receive payment until after you have been accepted. Many schools will pay for the full amount of your tuition if you are enrolled full-time in a college.

For most unpaid internships, the company will handle everything once they have received your applications. Some companies require an interview, but many do not. If you are interested in starting at a specific company, make sure you find out what the interviewing process entails. Some employers prefer phone interviews; others may prefer an in-person interview. Always follow up after an interview to make sure you are getting the answers you want. As a note, always keep track of your application and any correspondence from employers so you are aware of your status.