Frederic Nicolas – Contributor

As the fall semester begins, many students are starting to prepare for internships and post-graduation employment. This time of year, businesses and organizations are actively looking for their next class of summer interns, providing opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience outside of a classroom context. However, landing an internship or a job isn’t just about sending out resumes and hoping for a lucky break. Students have to be well-prepared to stand out in a competitive job market. 

Networking: the key to unlocking opportunities 

Networking is considered by most to be the cornerstone of career success. It’s not just about knowing people – it’s about building meaningful professional relationships with key individuals. Studies show that a great number of jobs aren’t advertised to the greater public and that many opportunities come through personal connections and referrals. Students who make time for networking will be more likely to be aware of these hidden opportunities, giving them a head start when it comes to job search. 

Higher education institutions like Bishop’s offer different networking opportunities. Attending career fairs, industry-specific events and any networking mixers hosted by the university or clubs can prove beneficial in meeting the right people in your field of study. At those events, students are encouraged to engage with guest speakers and organizations who visit campus and to connect with them on professional platforms like LinkedIn. Professors and mentors can also be valuable assets, often providing insights into your industry of interest or upcoming opportunities. 

Simply collecting business cards isn’t sufficient to create meaningful professional connections. Students have to focus on building authentic relationships. Asking questions, showing interest in their work and offering value where possible can make connections evolve into mentorships or even job offers. 

Tailoring your resume: quality over quantity 

One of the biggest mistakes students make when applying for jobs or internships is sending out the same resume to every employer. While it might seem efficient, doing so significantly reduces the chances of a student getting noticed. In a job market where employers are often sorting through hundreds of resumes for the same position, looking for ideal candidates that align with their specific needs, tailoring your resume to each job description is essential. 

Start by thoroughly reading the job posting and identifying the key skills and qualifications the employer is seeking. Customizing your resume to highlight the relevant experiences, coursework or projects that match those qualifications will help you stand out. Quantifying achievements when applicable is also a good idea, as metrics give employers a concrete sense of one’s capabilities. 

Soft skills: the unsung heroes of employability 

While technical skills and academic background are important, market trends show that employers are increasingly looking for candidates who demonstrate strong soft skills – such as communication, teamwork, adaptability and problem-solving. Many hiring managers value soft skills just as much, if not more, than technical expertise. 

During interviews, students should be prepared to provide real-life examples of how they have demonstrated these skills in previous work experiences, in the classroom or other activities on the side. These skills will help set the student apart from other candidates who may have similar qualifications, but fail to show the interpersonal and professional skills that are required to be successful in today’s dynamic work environment. 

Securing an internship or a job is more than just a one-and-done effort; it’s an ongoing process of preparation, networking and refining your skills. By building a strong network, customizing your resume to the job posting, and highlighting both your hard and soft skills, you’ll see your chances of standing out in the competitive market for a job increase significantly. 

Investing time now will pay off when it comes time to apply. Start early, be proactive, be intentional about the steps you take toward your career and most importantly, be aware of the different resources Bishop’s has to offer for career preparation. Bishop’s Career and Transition Services (CATS) are free for students to take advantage of and might prove valuable in their future job search.