Applying for Internships/Jobs

Internship and job applications are something most everyone must do at some point in their lives. Young professionals, especially, must know how to successfully navigate their way through the application process because most do not have a whole lot of experience to draw on. Here are some things to keep in mind that could help you successfully land the internship or job of your dreams:

1. Timeliness. Find out when application deadlines are due and try and send in your application as early as possible. Employers will notice and appreciate your timeliness and enthusiasm. This will also give you the opportunity to be one of the first applicants they review, which may work to your advantage.

2. Update your social media. Make sure any professional sites are updated with your latest information. For personal accounts, clean up any questionable activity or change your privacy settings. Employers will google you so be wary and prepared for it.

3. Follow up. Whether you get an interview or not, follow up and thank someone for reviewing your application. If you do get an interview, make sure you follow up as soon as possible.

4. Research the company. Make sure in your cover letter and in any interviews you know everything there is to know about the company. It will be impressive to see in a cover letter and equally as impressive in an interview. Know what the company can do for you and what you can do for the company. This is an easy point to prepare for an interview.

5. Customize your cover letters and resumes. Do not send a generic cover letter to several different companies. They will be able to spot that a mile away. Add information about the company in your cover letter and highlight on skills they specifically mentioned in the job description. Same goes for resumes. Tailor your stuff to match the job description a company is looking for in a new employee.