Unlock Your Career Potential: Tips and Tools to Land Your Next Internship or Entry-Level Job
Unlock Your Career Potential: Top Tips and Tools to Land Your Next Internship or Entry-Level Job
Tips on how to land your first internship or career opportunity from a seasoned Boston University career coach
Want to set yourself up for success as you find your next opportunity and navigate the job market? You need to tap into your career resources! Whether that’s a digital tool, your network, your mentor, a career coach, or something or someone else entirely, leaning into your resources is a necessary part of the search for a new role. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
Ensure your résumé is optimized for your roles of interest:
There’s a lot of buzz about including keywords in your résumé and ensuring the document is pristine for when it encounters the ATS (applicant tracking software). While that buzz might be valid, what’s most important is that your résumé is a precise fit for the role(s) you’re applying to. If the job description mentions a need for project management and expertise in a certain software, ideally, your résumé should show your skills in those areas through keywords and descriptive bullet points.
We recommend using VMock for assistance with résumé formatting and content development (and cover letters, interview prep, and LinkedIn profile assistance, too).
Go beyond job boards and online searches:
Using job search tools on Handshake (great for finding internships and early career opportunities), job boards on LinkedIn and Indeed, and industry-specific job boards are great ways to find opportunities. However, tapping into your network and connecting with employees at your companies of interest are great ways to secure opportunities. Referrals, informational interviews, and info sessions make a world of difference.
Stay organized and set achievable goals for yourself:
With so many tasks involved in the job search process—researching companies, applying for internships and jobs, networking, and following up on applications—it can be easy to lose track of your progress. And when you lose track of your progress, it can feel like you’re walking in place. To stay on top of your search, create a job search tracker (or use one already created, like this one from The Muse) to monitor applications, deadlines, and outreach. Setting daily or weekly goals can also help keep you motivated and on track. Consider setting goals around the number of applications submitted or new connections made. Remember, consistent effort is key; tracking your progress can help you see how far you’ve come.
Finding the right opportunity takes time, consistency, and strategic use of your resources. Remember that the Center for Career Development is here as you navigate your career journey! Check out BU’s Career Development Blog for more information and tips on the job hunt.
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