How to get an internship without work experience

In order to get an internship without any work experience, you need to stand out in other ways beyond your resume. It definitely it possible, but you’re going to have to take it a step further beyond just submitting a resume and hoping for the best!

• Research

Learn everything you can about the company and the internship program! Reach out to former interns on LinkedIn and ask if they’re willing to tell you about their experience. Learn everything you can about the company, their clients, what they do, etc. If you reach out, prepared with plenty of background knowledge, you will stand out as someone who cares about the position.

Find out who the hiring manager is, or the person who manages the internship program. Reach out to them directly, expressing how much you’re interested in this position. It shows that you invest time and energy into your application, and are willing to take steps to go above and beyond.

• Extracurriculars

I have hired interns without any previous internships or work experience at all. They earned the position by demonstrating they were interested in and prepared for the role in other ways. This includes joining clubs relevant to the internship, being members of a related association, volunteering in a position that had transferable skills, etc.

Just because you haven’t had professional experience yet doesn’t mean you can’t be prepared and well-suited for the role. Look into other opportunities that don’t necessarily need work experience to get into.

• Follow Up

Every candidate that has called me to follow up on an application received an internship offer from me. Making the call shows that you’re genuinely interested in the opportunity and really care about making connections with those that work there. So, make sure to follow up, whether it’s by calling or emailing.

And, as always, asking your friends / family / network for help! You can absolutely get an internship with minimal experience.