Finding an internship: our tips
Here are 九色视频鈥檚 tips to help you search efficiently for an internship.
Start early
With lessons, applications and exams to manage, it is important to begin your search early, before you find yourself overloaded. You will need to set aside time for this process if you want to end up in a position to choose. Several weeks in advance, determine when the most appropriate time will be to start looking at what鈥檚 available, according to the planned internship period.
Devise a plan of attack
To motivate yourself during the internship search, decide on a routine to follow every day, to write cover letters, send emails and recontact companies. It can be a good idea to draw up a list of target companies and plan making contact with them.
Decide which direction you want to go in
During your studies, it may be that you do not yet have a career path mapped out. In this case, think about a business sector, a profession or the types of companies that attract you, so that the internship can then help you narrow down your goal.
Craft your CV and cover letter
To give yourself the best chance of success, you absolutely must tailor your CV and cover letter to your specific internship search. It is important that the company understands your chosen direction, how your education and experience match the internship description, and how you will be able to manage the responsibilities of the role.
Create a coherent online presence
Internships are often found through specialist websites and personal connections, but professional social networks also play an important role. By taking the time to update your profiles on the web, you can open up opportunities and grow your network of connections.
Post your CV on job boards and send targeted unsolicited applications
To improve your CV鈥檚 visibility on job boards, it is important to use the right keywords when describing your skills and abilities. Don鈥檛 hesitate to send unsolicited applications through the websites of major groups, which are often looking for new profiles, or to approach companies that you are particularly interested in.
Use your network
Focussing on direct contacts, turning to your network and talking to the people around you are probably the most powerful ways to get your CV out there and land an internship.
Get off the beaten track
To stand out, be proactive in your search by trying various techniques, like sending follow-up emails and calling employers a week after sending an application.
Recontact companies
Whether you are looking for an internship overseas or in France, it is crucial to stay positive and not throw in the towel. To see where you stand, keep track of your applications (application sent, refused, interview date, etc.). Don鈥檛 be discouraged by lack of success. Hang in there and be determined.
Finding an internship: tools on the web
To help you in your internship search, there are many websites to search for jobs, internships and work-study placements, where you will find tens of thousands of available positions. Exercise caution, however, as not all websites are reliable. To avoid bogus ads and companies that don鈥檛 respect interns鈥 rights, we recommend focussing your attention on specialist websites and using search filters to target your desired sector.