Obtaining your dream internship is not an easy task. You will need to invest a substantial amount of time for planning and be completely dedicated to the whole application process. Although it may sound daunting, it is by no means impossible to have your dream internship; if you really know what you want. It doesn't matter what major you are taking or how big your target company is, you can get it, if you are willing to focus single-mindedly on gaining it.
Know Your Target
The first step in getting that internship with your dream employer is identifying the company you want to work with as early as possible. For a summer internship, you should have your list narrowed down to a few possibilities by the time October or November comes. If you will be having your internship during spring or fall, then try to adjust accordingly.
Know Why
Second, you should have a clear understanding of the reason you want to work for that certain employer. Write down a list of reasons you think they are your best opportunity among the other companies that you can have your internship with. For instance, you are a journalism major who really admires the content and writing style of your hometown newspaper.
Make sure you have a clear grasp of what makes the company so successful that it inspires your admiration. Also, consider how you will fit into the existing corporate culture. Lastly, understand how the work you will be doing with them will help you develop and hone your potentials.
Once the answers to these questions are clear in your mind, it is time to contact your employer. You should write a letter addressed to the correct hiring manager.
Writing A Good Letter
In your letter introduce yourself and tell them that you want to have an internship with the company. Explain why you want to work for them, emphasizing ways in which you can contribute to their company. Your explanation should demonstrate your knowledge about their company.
You should also explain why you think you are qualified to undergo their internship program. If you have had a leadership position that is relevant to the duties that their interns have, then donĂt forget to mention so.
Your letter should be concise and straight to the point. Avoid lengthy digressions or flattery. Conclude by thanking the reader for his or her time. Specify what your next step of action is; for instance, you can say when you will be calling to follow up your application or set a scheduled interview or follow up with your application.
On The Interview
If your potential employer contacts you for interviewing, you have to really sell yourself. Do not forget to dress appropriately and professionally. Learn as much as you can about the company and the people who will be interviewing you. You should also bring extra copies of your resumé:; you never know if more than one person will be interviewing you and will want to be prepared.
You should also prepare some questions about your the duties of the internship you are hoping to gain. Also try to find out the number of other interns you'll be working with. If you do not get an immediate answer at the end of your interview, keep in touch with that person who interviewed you. By showing persistence but not to the point of being a pest, you demonstrate that you are a diligent and professional worker.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure to impress your interview and improve your chances of bagging that internship program with your dream employer!