How internships can pay off for young graduates
NEARLY three- quarters of graduate employers hired interns this year, offering 9,390 such positions — up 13 per cent year-on-year — says the Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR). But how can you successfully win one?
Matthew O’Shea, a former intern at mass media firm Thomson Reuters, who is now in its global business consultancy, says: ‘I applied online, and then had a telephone interview where I could ask questions.’ He was then invited to an assessment day in London. It was a mix of interviews with leaders from the business and team-building exercises.
‘All the candidates are in competition, but it’s important to show you can still work in a team.’ Matthew was offered an eight-week internship, continued on to the graduate scheme and was finally offered a permanent position. He advises those seeking an internship: ‘Because in time you get better at applying, try not to make your first application the one you really want.
‘Eventually, a carefully researched application will make you stand out from candidates who send out many ill-considered ones.’
He also suggests calling the recruitment team. ‘I found they were often willing to talk, and to let me visit and chat to existing interns. Some offered work experience,’ says Matthew.
Ilona Jurkiewicz, head of early careers at Thomson Reuters, says: ‘Competition for internships is increasing, so prospective interns should thoroughly research companies that they are applying to.
‘At interview, be yourself. Too often candidates behave like robots and forget to engage with people at the company.
‘Ask assessors questions and spark a conversation. Such small personal connections will help the company to remember you.’
The AGR Annual Survey found that an average of 45 per cent of 2015 interns landed graduate jobs in the same company. Banks, engineering and accountancy firms hire the most interns.
AGR chief executive Stephen Isherwood says: ‘ Ensure you pick the internship to suit you and have a clear idea of what you want from it. Remember, you should receive at least the minimum wage.’ This year the median intern wage was £330 a week, up four per cent year-on-year.