As with any job hunt, the same rules apply. Larger companies have a multi staged selection process, with online screening generally being the first step, followed by an Assessment Centre and final interview.

Online screening requires you to submit your resume and cover letter, as well as answer several questions designed to get an understanding of your communication skills, work habits, commitment, initiative and teamwork skills. Take your time when answering the questions and get someone to proofread before you hit the submit button.

Never underestimate the importance of your cover letter! Employers are not expecting Interns to possess much, if any, office experience, thus making your cover letter potentially more important than your resume. The cover letter is an opportunity to state your case and really sell yourself. Tailor your cover letter specifically for the company you’re applying to. A very common mistake that will send your application straight to the bin, is to place the name of different company in your cover letter. For example applying to Ernest & Young and saying you “really want to work for KPMG”. Don’t laugh, it happens a lot.

Internships are often unpaid. Companies that do pay interns, don’t pay much. Employers like the idea of cheap or free labour, but what they really like is being able to introduce bright young graduates such as yourself to their organisation before you’re snapped up by a competitor. For you, working full time for three months without income may not seem appealing, but if you perform, the experience you earn and the networks you generate will more than compensate. Think of your internship as a trial or probationary period where it’s up to you to sink or swim.

Initiative separates one intern from another and is how successful Young Professionals advance their career. Remember that your supervisor wasn’t hired specifically to hold your hand. They have meetings to attend, KPI’s to hit, deadlines to meet, accounts and teams to manage and a multitude of other things that impact on the company’s bottom line. Don’t just expect work to be handed to you. You can show initiative by going beyond your assigned duties (within reason i.e. don’t contact external clients or stakeholders without permission). For example, using spare time to conduct market or internal research and outline potential opportunities or improvements in business processes. Speak up in meetings instead of just taking notes, suggest edits to the company website and don’t be afraid to politely ask your supervisor if there’s anything they have you can help with. It’s more than likely they will.

A common complaint amongst interns is being given menial tasks. Any good organisation will have plenty of real projects to keep you occupied, but you may well find yourself from time to time making photocopies, trawling databases, making coffee runs, restocking the stationary cupboard etc. Obviously you’re capable of much more, but remember that you’re part of a team and everyone has to play their part. Show you’re a team player by taking a positive attitude to any assigned task, and once you’re done, show initiative by politely asking if there’s anything more substantial you can help with.

Get to know as many permanent employees as you can, even outside your assigned department. Internships are easily the greatest opportunity you have to get to know and work along side of industry professionals and experts. Attend after work drinks, company retreats and activities and use the time to ask intelligent questions and just generally get yourself known. As well as gaining great insight into the company, the company will be able to see you as a person and potential employee and not just another summer intern.

Jeremy Bost