How to Successfully Apply for a Summer Internship

Why You Need a Summer Internship

Whether it's an internship, fellowship, leadership development program, etc it's important that you devote time to professional development! Though it doesn't have to be summer, many companies and organizations use that time to offer students and early professionals entry to different programs because the regular academic year is not in session. So make sure you take advantage of the diverse offerings to increase your professional development, experiences, skills and networking opportunities!

How to Research Career Opportunities

Believe it or not, most companies post their Early Talent Programs (internships, immersive camps, development programs, etc) right on the Career section of their websites. But if you're not sure where to start searching, look no further than Google. You can search for a specific field or industry or even just "Summer 2021 Internships." Recruitment usually starts around August and September, when students get back to school, but may go all the way until March of the year of interest. So be cognizant of application deadlines as candidates are being chosen NOW.

A Quick Look at Resume Optimization

It make seem tricky but here are a few tips to ensure you have an impactful resume:

• Don't use the same resume for each position, highlight skills and wins that match the job description you're applying for

• Instead of showcasing your daily responsibilities, focus more on your impact. You can use these formulas to create bullets:

Accomplished [X] as measured by [Y] by doing [Z]

“SAR” (Situation – Action – Result)

• Create a skills section of your HARD skills

• Resume Hack: Google [Insert Ivy League] + [Resume Formula] to get detailed information on how to format and optimize your resume

A Quick Look at LinkedIn Optimization

Making sure that your LinkedIn profile highlights your achievements and is a strong representation of your professional brand is an important step in obtaining professional opportunities. When recruiters, hiring managers, etc view your profile, impress them with a:

• Professional headshot

• Impactful headline

• Strategic Banner

• Unique Summary

• Accomplishment-based experience section

• RELEVANT skills

• Custom URL

LinkedIn Hack: Google [LinkedIn Optimization] to get detailed how-to's on making your profile stand out

Connecting with a LinkedIn Recruiter

Instead of cold applying to positions, it's always smart to try to reach out to a recruiter or hiring manager on LinkedIn to get your application in front of a real pair of eyes. This not only shows initiative and interest, but can also be the step that lands you an interview. To do this:

• Search LinkedIn for the Company + Recruiter + Location of the position you're interested in (sometimes the recruiter will be listed in the job description)

• Request a connection with the recruiter and be sure to add a personal note introducing yourself, stating the position you're interested in, and the job code or ID

• LinkedIn only gives you 300 characters for a personal message to accompany your connection request, so be sure to be concise but compelling, for example:

Hi Anastasia,

My name is T'kheya and I'm a recent graduate. I'm sure you get a lot of messages as a recruiter, but if you have any time, I'd love some guidance on applying to the 2021 Leadership Development Program Eaton is offering, Job ID 12937308BB. Any feedback would be much appreciated!

Having a great LinkedIn profile is the best way to pique a recruiter's interest, so make sure yours is optimized and that you have a resume tailored to the job description ready to send them.

Creating a Unique Elevator Pitch

No matter what stage you're currently in for the application process you should have a unique and impactful elevator pitch you feel comfortable delivering (verbally or in written form). An elevator pitch is a quick summary that can be used to market yourself, an idea or a product. For a successful elevator pitch, you should focus on:

• Introducing yourself

• Describing what you do/what your passions are

• Tying that into the role you're applying to

• Ending with an action

An example of a good elevator pitch is:

“Hi, my name is T'kheya. It’s great to meet you! I’m a Public Relations Manager, specializing in overseeing successful initiative launches from beginning to end. Along with my 3 years of professional experience, I recently completed a certificate program with a focus on consumer trust and retention. I find the work your PR team does to be innovating and refreshing—I’d love the opportunity to put my expertise to work for your company. Would you mind if I set up a quick call next week for us to talk about any upcoming opportunities on your team?”

If You're Nervous, Apply Anyway!

It's easy to talk ourselves out of applying for great opportunities because we aren't sure if we're qualified or think someone else would be suited for the position, but that's the wrong way to think!

You are smart. You are competent.

And whatever you put your mind to you will achieve

That's what TK the Mentor is here to ensure! Use your resources and network to increase your confidence, skills and opportunities.

Good luck!