5 Ways An Internship Can Help You Get a Job
Nowadays, even entry-level jobs want to hire candidates with years of relevant experience in that field. How does a recent college graduate show that they’re capable of that work when they seek their first full-time job? The answer, of course, is internships. These hands-on learning experiences may not be paid, but they count as having worked in your field. Aside from the obvious benefit of completing internships (listing more experience on your resume), there are several ways your internship can lead to your first full-time job.
Not sure how to land your first internship? Speak with your school’s career development office and your department chair. They most likely have resources to help you get an internship, and they can even help you earn college credit for them!
- Connections to Employers
It’s not always about what you know – sometimes, it’s about who you know. Keeping in touch with internship supervisors and colleagues after you’re done with your work can help you land a job down the road. They can act as references for job applications, and they may even be able to introduce you to hiring managers.
- Your Internship Can Offer You a Job
Sometimes, soon-to-be college graduates will accept full-time job offers at the company they intern with. Treating your internship like it’s already a job will help you fare better. For more advice on getting hired by your current internship employer, check out this article.
- One Internship Leads to Another
Having one internship under your belt is great, but having years of internship experience is better. Some internships expect you to already have some experience in that field (ironic, right?!) With prior internship experience, you’ll still be in the running for these top-tier positions.
- Build Your Portfolio
If your internship involves producing deliverables (think flyers, social media posts, graphic design, reports), those can be used to show future employers what you’re capable of. It’s one thing to list your experience on your resume. Physically showcasing your abilities takes your desirability to a whole new level.
- Get Certified in Your Field
Some internships will require you to obtain certain certifications that are relevant to your position. If you’re interning in a physical therapist’s office or a hospital, for example, you may need to get CPR certified. These certifications should go on your resume, as they will show future employers that you’re the real deal.
Finding a job after college is hard, but internships can help you tremendously. You’ll be able to bolster your resume while earning college credit at the same time. You have nothing to lose, so start searching for opportunities today!
