The summer is a great time to start looking for an internship. In the UK, as per Gov regs. since 2017, the policies have changed and internships are now paid. This can make finding an internship all the more competitive. Companies will obviously want the very best if they’re taking on paid staff.
When to Look for a summer internship
This may seem obvious: in the summer, surely. Not so hasty, since internships are competitive and for companies to take someone on who hasn’t worked in the sector before, time costly, applying ahead of time is beneficial. It may be the case that you’re responding to an ad a firm has listed for an intern but if they haven’t, you can get in early and contact them. This shows that you’re proactive and have initiative.
How to Find an Internship
As mentioned above, the earlier you start looking, the more time you’ll have to interview and select the right placement for yourself. You can search online for internship placements but don’t just rely on this, also apply speculatively. If you know that you need to gain experience and skills from working for a large corporate (for example) then start applying.
How to Apply
Regarding the aforementioned, if you’re applying for a big corporate then think corporate. Find the right person to contact. Check the company’s internal grad’ programme and get the right contact. If you have a contact within the said organisation then this could be another route in. Make sure that your application looks the part and that you can back it up. If you want to work for a legal firm then obviously don’t show up wearing jeans. Consider your application through from beginning to end. These people know nothing about you other than that which you present to them. If you present half basked they might think you’re disinterested and sloppy applications usually end up in the bin. Rise above the competition and streamline yourself as a professional.
Tried but Failed
If you have tried to get an internship and have failed then fail forward. Do not give up. This is your career. Your life & work will be your life’s work. This will require work now. It’s a job in itself to find a job. You can go the distance. If you’ve applied through schemes and websites and not heard back, do not dismay. Often internships are advertised on regular job websites and if you’re struggling then volunteering is a great place to start.
If you’re looking for a role within a larger firm and have always dreamed of working for a company that’s a household name but it’s not happening then look at smaller options first. Every big organisation started small. No one starts at the top. Smaller organisations will likely teach you more because the team will be smaller and you’ll be less likely of being overlooked. There are positives to not getting what you want straight away. Stepping stones often lead the way. Every opportunity paves the way to success.
Volunteering to Interning
With internship applications, ongoing (or even graduate schemes if you’ve completed your uni course), there’s nothing stopping you from volunteering while you apply elsewhere. This is almost the same in that you’ll be working alongside employees and learning skills while you volunteer your time. The best part is volunteering is usually a few days per week, allowing you to work full time in a paid role doing more casual work in a cafe or bar. Good luck and don’t forget to enjoy the summer!
