Somehow, that perfect internship or job fell into your lap. Or maybe you’ve been scouring job sites since the moment you stepped foot on campus, and your labors have finally paid off. Or maybe you’re like the other 95 percent of us and have no idea what you’re doing after you graduate. No matter what your situation, it’s never a bad time to review the basics of how to get a job or internship. We can’t guarantee that these tips will work, but they will definitely improve your chances. Trust us, we know exactly what we’re talking about.
Spend As Little Time As Possible On Your Resume
Anything goes, but generally the best tactic is to list all the jobs you’ve ever had, including babysitting in junior high and busing tables for a summer. Even if it seems irrelevant to the job or internship you’re interested in, deep down you know that there are surprising similarities between international business and working in retail. Plus, it’ll fill up pages, and the longer your resume, the better. Just like your professors, employers actually love reading 4-5 pages of bulls#!t.
Dress For The Beach
Flip-flops are the new Oxfords. Shorts are much more comfortable than slacks. And that Bud Light-stained, screen-printed T-shirt you bought two years ago at a boozed-out Kid Rock concert is a good way to communicate your fun side. Another option is something tight and a little too small, like your jeans from freshman year. There’s a good chance that showing off your physique will help you make a lasting impression. Besides, “business casual” is more of a suggestion than a requirement.
Treat The Interview Like A First Date
Show up a little late. It’s the same principle as dressing properly: you don’t want to seem too eager. Don’t bother to learn anything about the company you’ll be working for; let them surprise you! Definitely don’t prepare any questions; the right ones will come to you in the moment, so just let them flow. Finally, get out of there when you feel like the interview is going well. It’s crucial that you leave them wanting more. Oh, that’s not how you act on a first date? Stay tuned for our upcoming article “How To Date.”
Bargain
Nothing is non-negotiable, including the parameters of your job or internship. Is your dream internship unpaid? Use persuasion and bargaining tactics to suggest a salary. Start high, say at $50 an hour, to demonstrate that your (admittedly limited) skills are valuable, and if all goes well, you may end up with a decent salary. Does the job require working year-round? Subtly imply that you would be willing to exchange small favors—for instance, pet-sitting—for a few more vacation days. It’s all about supply and demand, and your employer will appreciate your free market savvy.
