Have you considered completing an internship?
Release Date: 20 April 2010
The value of completing an internship or work experience placement should not be underestimated. Whilst your focus may be on securing a permanent position post-university it is advisable to keep an open mind when it comes to work experience, both before and after graduation.
The benefits of work experience are really quite plain to see. On the surface, applying for any job offers practice at writing covering letters and attending interviews and attending interviews with a company in the industry in which you want to work may provide you with examples of questions that are likely to be asked. Even if you are not successful you should get feedback on where you can improve, which is positive. The more exposure you have to these situations the more comfortable you will be in them in future.
An internship or work experience placement offers an opportunity to experience real working life. This is something that appeals to employers as it demonstrates that you are probably not “stuck in the student lifestyle”, which is a complaint occasionally made by companies considering taking on students or fresh graduates.
Soft skills such as leadership and communication can be developed during a placement as well as confidence. Theses skills are valued by employers alongside academic achievement, which is easier to prove.
Completing and internship or placement gives the chance to network with other employees. The people you meet at work can be very useful as referees and can also offer sound career advice. They may also be on hand to alert you to future vacancies.
Working on placement in an actual business may help you to decide on the career or even employer for you through accumulation of knowledge. It may make you decide that this is not the route you want to follow, but even then, this puts you once step closer to finding your way. Completing an internship will also demonstrate commitment to a chosen career path and if you succeed in impressing your employer if could offer a ‘foot in the door’ and you may be offered a more permanent role!
This is not an exhaustive list of the benefits, there are even more! So make sure you keep your eyes open for any adverts!
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