How to apply for your first job or internship

Create a job application process playbook

To create a great job or internship application, you first need a strategy that’s clear and easy to follow so you know what you need to do — and in what order — to get across the finish line. Let’s dig into some common job application questions that you can use to pull together job skills, research, and assets to make a winning package that puts you at the head of the pack as a candidate.

1. How do I find a job or internship?

If you don’t know what kind of job or internship you’re looking for, start by identifying the reasons you want one in the first place. Maybe you want to test out a certain kind of experience through an internship before committing to doing it full-time. You may be looking for a job or internship because you need the income. Or you might be trying to get a foot in the door with a bucket-list employer. Consider these takeaways as you think about what kinds of positions to apply for:

1. As a college student, you can apply for entry-level jobs directly related to your major, such as being a teacher’s assistant while studying education.
2. Some internships provide you with school credit. Find out if your program of study requires one and if your school will accept credit from a potential employer.
3. Interning for a large company can lead to great opportunities, but don’t overlook the hands-on experience you can get at smaller organizations.
4. An internship can help you stand out with your current professors and future employers and lead to better opportunities after graduation.

In your search for a job or internship, platforms like LinkedIn can provide ways for you to connect directly from your profile with job postings from companies or organizations. You can also use resources built specifically for your situation as a student or recent graduate such as college-related job boards and platforms like Handshake.

2. What do I need to apply for a job or internship?

During the job application process, you’ll need to provide details about yourself and your experience that paint a clear picture of your qualifications. These include general application requirements such as specific documents and information as well as unique requests specific to a particular organization. Here’s a list of the items most commonly needed as part of an application:

1. Personal information (your name, address, phone number, email address)
2. Resume
3. Cover letter
4. References
5. Employment or experience history
6. Transcripts

3. How do I make a resume?

Creating a resume for the first time can be anxiety-inducing. Nick D’Alessandro, digital designer, production manager, and recent college graduate, says he was unsure where to start with his first resume for a job related to his college major. “Students don’t get a lot of background or direction when building a robust resume,” says D’Alessandro. “Most of the process is major trial and error.”

As you begin thinking about how to make a compelling resume and what content to include, follow these guidelines as a starting point:

1. Be brief. You want the hiring manager to see your qualifications quickly. Keep your resume to one page while ensuring it’s clear and easy to read.
2. Target your audience. Tailor your resume to each new position rather than creating a generic document. If you have a lot of skills and experience, list only those that are relevant to that specific job opening.
3. Include a summary statement. Start your resume with a sentence or two summarizing why you’re a great fit for the position. Briefly state your experience and skills so the hiring manager can quickly assess your qualifications.
4. Weave in your skills. Discuss your hard and soft skills in the content you provide throughout your resume rather than in a dedicated list. This gives readers context for both what you’ve done and what you can do.

4. How do I design a resume?

Once you’ve decided what your resume should include, it’s time to assemble it into a professional, attention-grabbing package. Whether you’re a design all-star or a creative novice, there’s a whole world of resume templates that take the guesswork out of making a resume that gets you noticed for the right reasons. With the right template and easy-to-use editing tools like Adobe Express, you can create your customized resume quickly and easily.

Rather than a laundry list, create a clean, organized resume focusing on your greatest hits so your best experiences get the most airtime.

6. What should be in my LinkedIn profile?

Your LinkedIn profile is often the first stop prospective employers and internship selection committees make when reviewing candidates. This is your chance to present your professional viewpoint, and it’s one way you can show off your personality to people considering your applications. Putting together a smart LinkedIn profile page is a breeze when you include these five things:

1. A professional headshot for a great first impression
2. A compelling summary of what makes you tick
3. A summary of experience, expertise, and education
4. A list of skills for others to endorse
5. A strong, attention-grabbing headline

8. How do I apply for a job?

Check the job or internship listing to confirm what you need to deliver with each application. If there’s an online form, complete the required fields and attach your resume as directed. Only include your cover letter and portfolio if the form requires one.

If you apply by email, put your name and the position title in the subject line. Then attach your resume, cover letter, and portfolio. Include a few lines in the email itself about what role you’re applying for and what documents you’ve attached.