Learnings from our recent webinar on hiring and recruitment in the marcomms industry underscored the value internships have for students looking for their first post-grad roles. Carolyn Pippen, College Admissions Counselor and Academic Advisor at IvyWise, shares her tips for landing said internships, from coursework insights to application advice and interview tips.
Embarking on a career in marketing and communications (marcomms) starts with gaining practical experience, and internships are an excellent way to do this. They help you develop critical skills, understand the ins and outs of the industry, build your professional network, enhance your resume, and clarify your career goals. Here you will find a series of tips to help you land and prepare for a marcomms internship while in college.
Use Your Coursework to Prepare
If you’re majoring in marketing or communications, it’s crucial to maximize your academic experience to prepare for an internship. Ensure you’re fulfilling major requirements efficiently and strategically. Engage in courses that offer practical insights and skills pertinent to marcomms. Talk to your academic advisor and professors to identify which courses align best with your specific field of interest. Courses in digital marketing, public relations, media studies, and consumer behavior can be particularly beneficial.
Build Your Resume Through On-Campus Activities
Participating in relevant on-campus activities is a great way to build your resume in preparation for landing an internship. Join student organizations that are related to marcomms, such as the school newspaper, marketing club, or any student-run PR firm. These experiences not only enhance your skills but also demonstrate your commitment and interest in the field to potential employers. Consider taking leadership roles within these organizations to further bolster your resume.
Build a Professional Network
Networking is a key component in landing internships. Start by building relationships with your professors and advisors; they can offer valuable advice and may even know of internship opportunities. Connect with the staff in your career services office and learn about the resources they provide. Attend professional networking events both on and off-campus. These events can help you meet industry professionals and learn more about different organizations within your field of interest. Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals in organizations that interest you to introduce yourself, express your enthusiasm for the industry, and ask any questions you have about their work.
Find Strong Fit Internships
Utilize all available resources to find internships that are a strong fit for you. Leverage your professors, career services office, and professional network to discover opportunities. Don’t overlook the power of online searches and job boards dedicated to internships. Additionally, talk to friends and family who might have connections in the marcomms field. When evaluating potential internships, make sure you understand the job description and what the organization is looking for in candidates. This clarity ensures you can tailor your application to highlight your most relevant skills and experiences.
Submit Strong Applications
When applying for internships, it’s important not to put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to multiple opportunities to increase your chances of success. However, balance this by focusing on positions that genuinely interest you. Ensure that your application is flawless; follow all application instructions precisely and pay close attention to deadlines. A well-crafted cover letter that is tailored to each specific internship can make a significant impact. If you have any personal connections within the organization, don’t hesitate to reach out and follow up on your application, expressing your enthusiasm for the role.
Develop Interview Skills
Preparing for interviews is essential to securing a marcomms internship. Familiarize yourself with common internship interview questions and practice your responses. Mock interviews with friends can be very helpful. Additionally, take advantage of the resources offered by your college’s career services office, such as interview prep workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions. Strong interview skills can set you apart from other candidates.
Conclusion
Securing a marcomms internship requires a proactive and strategic approach. By leveraging your coursework, participating in relevant on-campus activities, building a professional network, submitting strong applications, and honing your interview skills, you’ll significantly enhance your chances of landing an internship that aligns with your career goals. Remember, each step you take not only brings you closer to landing an internship but also prepares you for a successful career in marketing and communications. Start early, stay persistent, and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.
