Landing the gig
Finding an internship and especially one that fits your interests is a challenge that can be discouraging at times. Some employers never even respond to our applications, others decide to pass on us. When you then break the ‘curse’ and finally get an interview, you are cautiously optimistic. You know you only got past the initial stage and that you still have other interviews, tests and screenings ahead of you before getting the internship. This alone can be emotionally exhausting, and applying at more than one places, as is often the case, makes it all the more tiring. But bear with us, you will pull it off. If we could, you can too!
As a tip I would advise you to tailor your resumes to the organization and position you are applying for as much as possible. The same goes for the cover letter – tell the recruiter who you are and why there is a match between you and the organization. Tell them why you want that position. Elaborate why you are the best candidate for it. If you do not have any experience, fear not. Just explain why you are so passionate about this job and emphasize your desire to immerse yourself in the role and to learn things as quickly and as best as you can. It will help you get the call. The interviews are your time to shine – you can use them as an opportunity to convince the interviewer of your resume’s and cover letter’s truthfulness. Take the lead at times – ask specific questions about the role, you will show them your interest this way. And no matter the outcome, know your worth. If you do not get the internship at company X this does not mean that you are not good. At the same time company Y might be looking just for you! And I am saying this from personal experience! 🙂
Looking back on my internship journey
If you are still wondering where to apply, I can wholeheartedly recommend ING. At its heart are its employees and the ones I had the chance to work with were extremely warm, welcoming and friendly. The atmosphere is upbeat and, as confusing as it might sound, the most informal formal one.
One of the best things is that you will be treated with utmost respect and as an equal – nevermind that you might be way younger and inexperienced. You can always count on support whenever you need it and will get all the resources you need to grow – both as a person, and as a professional. Freedom there is inviolable and you will be encouraged to ‘do your thing’. How and when you do your work does not matter. What counts is that you have done it in the end and you will always get acknowledged for a job well-done.
An internship at ING helps you take a peak at what the corporate world looks like from within and trust me, it is exciting. You feel part of something bigger and appreaciate your time there even more. By observing others in the company you can get an idea of what career you might one day have within this field and environment. But most importantly, you could see for yourself if this would really be your cup of tea. Entering the corporate world that early is not that common. But if you manage and happen to realize it is not the best fit for you, you would have extra time to change your career path.
Be bold, do your best and enjoy the ride!