How I Dominated My Internship Search

In a previous post, I discussed how students should pick an internship that is right for them, rather than apply to the masses and go wherever they can. The things I spoke about in the post I used and it got me four interviews: three agencies and one clothing line. Here is how I did it.

Before I began my search, I decided what industries or areas I wanted to work in. I knew I wanted to work at an agency with multiple clients or in fashion. So I applied at 3 agencies, all of which have multiple clients and one in-house position for a clothing line, it also fell in the realm of fashion PR.

I did my research, both on the companies and the people with whom I’d be sending my letters and resumes. I became familiar with each company, their focus, and their clients.

After choosing where to apply, I catered my cover letter to those positions. Read the description and requirements for each position and made separate cover letters for each. All of my cover letters had the same idea: Why I am the ideal candidate.

I didn’t want to send in the “I’m writing to express interest in ________ position.” Employers read those everyday. Figured I’d spice it up.

I told them why I’d be great for the position. I didn’t just write my experiences, but how my experiences would help their company and how I can be beneficial, even as an intern. I hit them with the good stuff and I made sure it was seen first in my cover letter. I made sure that my cover letter and resume were relevant to one another, but didn’t cover the same stuff entirely.

After a little waiting, I received follow-up e-mails from all four places. Interviews were schedule and the ball was rolling.

I noticed one question that came up in each interview was, “What do you expect out of this internship.”

I was stumped at first. When are we ever given the opportunity to say what we want? The perception is that we have to climb the ladder, and that means doing the work no one wants to do.

My response? “I don’t want to be a coffee runner. I want to work. I want to be used. I’m free help I want to be taken advantage of, in terms of working with clients and assignments. I’m here to learn; I’m eager to take in everything.”

After all is said and done two places offered at the end of the interview. The other two are still making decisions. I have accepted a position with Factory PR, based on what I will be doing and possible opportunities after my internship.

Even though I won’t be working with the other organizations I responded with an e-mail asking to keep in touch and to consider me for future projects. I let them know I was available for volunteer, freelance, or contracted work as needed.

One thing I believe helped was this Web site. I gave them more options in terms of understand me. It gave employers an opportunity to see who I am, how I speak and any work related documents. The Web site added another dimension to my overall appearance.

Oh yea, none of them asked to see my portfolio.

Related post: The Right Internship for YOU