Competition for internships is often fierce, and the application process can be stressful. EY believes it is important to support students in their first steps in their careers by providing opportunities that help them discover their strengths and develop both professionally and personally.
To help boost your confidence when applying, we spoke to EY, one of the best-known and most sought-after student-friendly employers in the School of Economics, who shared practical tips on how to stand out during the application process.
1. Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter for Each Application
- Highlight the skills and experiences that match the specific internship requirements.
- Add a short summary at the beginning of your CV explaining why you want this position and what makes you unique.
- Avoid unnecessary information - focus on what matters to the employer. Make sure your documents are accurate and free of spelling mistakes.
2. Be Proactive and Use Different Channels to Find an Internship
- Identify companies where you’d like to intern, follow their activities on social media, and reach out directly to recruiters.
- Attend career fairs, open house events, and use university job portals.
- Networking and direct contacts give you an advantage and show your genuine interest.
3. Highlight Your Soft Skills
- Communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving are just as important as technical knowledge.
- Share examples during interviews of how you’ve used these skills—this helps employers see your potential and fit for the team.
4. Prepare Thoroughly for the Interview
- Research the company, think through your expectations, and be ready to share them.
- Practice answers to common questions and provide examples from your experience.
- Pay attention to first impressions: appropriate attire, confident body language, and polite communication create a trustworthy image.
5. Develop and Market Your Personal Brand
- Identify your strengths and skills, create a professional LinkedIn profile, and keep your content updated.
- Share posts about your studies and achievements, join discussions, and actively engage with industry experts.
- Be authentic and focus on quality rather than quantity - this helps you stand out and increases your chances with employers.
To stand out in an internship competition, it’s important to be informed, determined, and proactive. Focus on your strengths, communicate openly, and treat every application as an opportunity to gain experience. Stay up to date with developments in your field and enhance your skills through training or certifications, as this demonstrates interest and readiness to grow.
Every step - whether it’s crafting your CV, attending an interview, or building connections - brings you closer to your desired internship.
Check out TalTech's internship portal
You can find more tips and useful guidance on EY special page