Top-rated Platforms to Find Internships and Kickstart your Career
Landing an internship can feel daunting, especially when you're just starting your career. As a student or recent graduate, internships are the easiest and most effective way to gain hands-on experience and showcase your potential.
If you lack work experience or a portfolio to demonstrate your skills, internships are a smart move to bridge the gap. However, finding the right opportunities requires leveraging the right platforms.
Why Should You Leverage Internship Opportunities?
In today’s fast-paced, competitive job market, standing out is essential. Internships act as stepping stones, helping you apply your existing skills, identify your strengths, and address your weaknesses.
Internships often guide you in navigating your career path. If you perform well, there’s a chance you might be offered a permanent position at the company. These opportunities can be paid or unpaid, depending on the organization.
Beyond experience, internships boost your resume and portfolio, filling employment gaps and enhancing your work history. Networking opportunities during internships can also lead to recommendations and future job offers.
What Are the Go-To Platforms for Landing Your Next Internship?
To secure internship opportunities, it is crucial to use the right platforms for your search. These platforms provide you with access to opportunities and daily notifications tailored to your role and preferences. Here is a list of some platforms that can help in your internship search.
Internshala
Internshala is a website that provides access to millions of internship opportunities. It is a user-friendly site offering internships based on location, job preferences, and more.
This platform, developed by the tech company Internshala, aims to equip students with relevant tech skills while connecting them to valuable internship opportunities.
Set Up a Profile: When applying for internships, setting up your profile is essential as it serves as your CV. Include your details and update them regularly. Specify your role of interest, whether remote, hybrid, or onsite. A complete profile gives you an edge in your internship search.
Use Filters: Internshala’s filter feature helps streamline your search based on the type of work, location, duration, minimum stipend, and starting date.
Take Courses: If certain certifications are required for your field, Internshala offers various courses to help you upskill.
With these tools and resources, Internshala simplifies the process of finding internships and ensures you’re well-prepared for the opportunities you pursue.
Handshake
Handshake is a highly student-centric platform, making it a powerful tool for securing internships tailored to your preferences. It allows you to connect with employers and gain insights into what they are seeking.
Create a Profile: Like other platforms, creating a well-thought-out profile is essential. Avoid treating it like a social media profile. Instead, focus on being intentional and professional in your application.
Use Keyword Search: Handshake allows you to search for internships based on job types, pay, career paths, on-site or remote options, industry, and school qualifications.
Filters: Use the filter icon to refine your search by application deadline or date posted. You can activate this by clicking the relevance icon below the search bar. Search results will appear on the left-hand side of the platform.
Note that this platform is primarily designed for college and university students.
Chegg Internships
Chegg Internships is a student-focused platform offering access to a variety of internships and employers. It also provides learning resources for different courses, essential materials, and books.
Learning Services: The site equips students with the necessary skills for career success and even provides interview preparation.
Entry-Level Jobs: Chegg Internships doesn’t only focus on internships; it also offers entry-level job opportunities for recent graduates.
This platform is a comprehensive resource for students looking to develop their careers while pursuing practical work experience.
WayUp
Are you someone who finds it hard to keep checking job sites constantly? If so, WayUp is the perfect platform for you.
Unique Feature: WayUp’s Job Matchmaker is one of its standout features. After creating your profile and setting your preferences, the platform automatically matches you with jobs that align with your profile and interests.
Who It’s For: It is an excellent platform for students, entry-level job seekers, and those looking for part-time opportunities.
Profile Creation: To get job recommendations, you must create a complete and professional profile that reflects your skills and interests.
WayUp simplifies the process of job hunting by doing most of the work for you, making it ideal for busy individuals.
Idealist
If you’re passionate about social impact, Idealist is the go-to platform.
Community Focus: With over 1.3 million members, Idealist is the leading platform for internships, jobs, and volunteer opportunities in the nonprofit sector.
Filters: You can refine your search based on location, remote preferences, job functions, areas of interest, education level, experience level, job type, organization type, language, and date posted.
Career Advice: Idealist provides valuable guidance for both internship seekers and employers, helping them make informed decisions.
Idealist is perfect for those who want to contribute to causes that make a difference while building their careers.
AngelList (Now Wellfound)
AngelList, now known as Wellfound, is an excellent platform for exploring opportunities in the tech and startup world.
Explore Tech Opportunities: The platform connects job seekers with startups and tech companies, making it ideal for young talent eager to work in innovative environments.
Profile Setup: Like other platforms, you must create a detailed profile. Specify your preferences, such as work environment (remote, hybrid, or onsite) and company culture.
Job Search Tools: You can upload your resume, verify your account, and search for job titles of interest. The site also allows you to save jobs for future reference.
Wellfound is tailored to individuals who want to be part of the dynamic world of startups and technology.
Qureos
Qureos is an AI-powered platform designed to connect job seekers with potential organizations.
AI Matching: It uses AI to match candidates with roles based on profession, location, and time of posting.
Resources: The platform provides valuable tools like a resume builder and guidance materials for job seekers.
Project Building: Users can create projects in areas like Sales, Product, Data, Marketing, Operations, Customer Experience, and Project Management.
Mentorship and Bootcamps: Qureos offers access to mentors who provide career guidance and boot camps to develop specific skills.
This platform primarily focuses on remote roles and helps candidates enhance their portfolios with hands-on projects.
Google Internships
Google offers multiple internship opportunities tailored to students and recent graduates across diverse fields.
Search Filters: Google allows you to search for internships based on various criteria such as location, experience, skills, degree, job type, and organization. You can also organize your preferences by date and relevance to streamline your search.
Internship Categories: Some of the popular internship categories include: Legal Internships, STEP Internships, BOLD Internships, Software Engineering Internship, MBA Internships, Hardware Internships, Korean Veteran Business Internship, Associate Product Manager Internships
Accessibility: These programs are open to both students and graduates, providing them with an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in their chosen fields.
Additional Opportunities: Google also offers scholarships for various programs, enabling participants to enhance their learning while exploring career opportunities within the company.
Google internships are highly sought-after, offering unparalleled experience in a globally recognized organization.
Career Success Australia
Career Success Australia is an Australian-based platform offering a range of internship opportunities across diverse career paths, including information technology, engineering, business, and commerce.
Services Offered: Career coaching, cover letter writing, Interview training, networking tactics and strategies
Free Consultation: The platform provides free consultations to help you with job applications and optimize them by inserting relevant keywords to streamline your search.
LinkedIn Profile Optimization: Career Success Australia helps with LinkedIn profile analysis, offering templates, career resources, and counseling to enhance your professional online presence.
Post-Interview Support: After your job interview, Career Success Australian assist with the reference-checking process, contract negotiations, and salary discussions to help you secure job offers efficiently.
Indeed
Indeed is one of the most popular platforms for finding internships and jobs across industries. Its intuitive design and robust features make it a go-to platform for both job seekers and employers. It provides company reviews and salary information.
Extensive Listings: There are thousands of internship opportunities across industries and locations. You can set up alerts to receive notifications about internships matching your preferences.
Search Filters: Narrow down your search by job type, salary range, location, experience level, and company size.
Resume Builder: Create and upload a professional resume directly on the platform for easy application submissions.
Application Tracking: Track the status of your applications directly through the platform.
Glassdoor
Glassdoor is widely recognized for its transparency and focus on empowering job seekers with detailed insights into companies and roles. It is a powerful tool for finding internships and understanding potential employers.
Company Reviews and Ratings: Access honest reviews from employees about company culture, management, and overall satisfaction. Through this platform, you can learn about company missions, values, and benefits directly from employer profiles.
Salary Insights: Compare salary data for internships and entry-level roles across various industries.
Interview Experiences: There is access to explore shared interview questions and experiences to prepare for your applications.
Job Search: Use filters to search for internships based on location, role, company, and work arrangement (remote, hybrid, or in-office). There are also customized job alerts for internships.
Career Advice: It provides guidance through blogs, webinars, and resources.
Tips and Tricks for Securing Internships
Tailor Your CV to the Role
When applying for internships, personalizing your CV to align with the job description is crucial. Avoid sending out generic CVs for every application, as this can come across as unprofessional. Carefully review the job requirements, identify the skills the employer is looking for, and incorporate those relevant skills into your CV. This increases your chances of passing Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which many companies use to filter candidates.
Write a Strong Cover Letter
A compelling cover letter sets you apart from other applicants. Avoid using generic templates found online, as they often appear impersonal and overused. Instead, research the organization thoroughly, including its mission and values, and address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager if possible. Showcase your understanding of the role, how you align with the organization's goals, and why you are the ideal candidate.
Related Article: How to Write a Winning Cover Letter
Apply for Jobs You are a Perfect Match
Focusing on roles that closely match your skills and experience increases your likelihood of success. Highlight your abilities and expertise for the role. While you don’t need to meet 100% of the qualifications, being strategic in your applications ensures a better chance of being shortlisted.
Related Article: Job Searching 101: What to Do and WHAT not to Do When Applying
Check for Errors in Your CV and Cover Letter
Grammatical and typographical errors on your CV or cover letter can be major red flags for employers. These mistakes may indicate a lack of attention to detail. Use tools like Grammarly or Quillbot to proofread and refine your documents, ensuring they are error-free and professional.
Leverage Your Network
Networking can provide valuable insights and opportunities during your internship search. Reach out to individuals working in your target companies or industries, even if you don’t know them personally. LinkedIn is an excellent platform for this purpose. Networking allows you to gain insider tips, prepare better, and potentially receive referrals that can enhance your application.
Maintain a Strong Social Media Profile
A well-maintained LinkedIn profile or other professional social media accounts can complement your application. Use your profile to highlight your expertise, work experience, and skills. Employers often view online profiles to gain additional insights about candidates, so ensure yours portrays you as credible and skilled.
Seek Recommendations
Recommendations from past colleagues, professors, or mentors can add credibility to your application. These endorsements serve as testimonials to your abilities, work ethic, and character. Request recommendations from individuals who can vouch for your skills and contributions in previous roles or academic settings.
Wrap-Up
Internships are invaluable for gaining practical experience and enhancing your CV. Exploring multiple platforms can broaden your access to internship opportunities.
To secure your desired internship, positioning yourself effectively is key. A tailored CV, an impressive cover letter, networking, and maintaining a strong online presence can set you apart as the ideal candidate. Remember, preparation and strategy make all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Are the Best Platforms for Internships?
The best platforms for internships include Idealist, AngelList, Internshala, WayUp, Glassdoor, Indeed, Qureos, Google Careers, Internships.com, and Career Success Australia.
What Is the Best Way to Get Internships?
The best way to get internships is to join local communities and services that help you find job opportunities suited to your skills and interests. These communities provide career advice and offer feedback on any challenges you encounter while applying. For example, Stellar Careers is a great platform to find internship opportunities and connect with professionals.
How Can I Increase My Chances of Getting an Internship?
To increase your chances of getting an internship, optimize your LinkedIn profile, conduct thorough research, and connect with professionals and recruiters. Tailor your CV and cover letter to match the job description, practice common interview questions, and take courses relevant to your field.
What Type of Internship Is the Best?
Research shows that a full-time internship is often the best because it provides the opportunity to fully apply and enhance your skills. It offers more experience and connections, and you might even be offered a full-time position if you perform well during your internship.
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