How To Apply For An Internship With Video
Every age in history has its own prominent feature. That of the Twenty First Century is the exploitation of science and technology for the facilitation of our daily lives as humans.
Thanks to advancements in technology, messages that used to take hours to send via telegraph can be sent in a matter of seconds – through email and instant messaging. Automation and artificial intelligence have helped us easily solve complicated problems that would have dumbfounded geniuses like Newton and Leibniz. The utilisation of technology has also played a significant role in employment. In recent times, several prospective employers and employees have replaced the traditional mode of physical applications and interviews with virtual ones. We can see this too in the increase in remote internships available now. This method possesses many advantages ranging from lesser costs to expedition. Video applications are a common example of the burgeoning practice of the adaptation of technology in employment.
Like written applications, it’s important to make a good first impression, as first impressions are almost all that matter in situations like this. This might be particularly difficult when it comes to international student internships, as you may have to interview virtually. To increase your chances though, it might be good to send a video application!
If you are thinking of making a video application, here’s a list of four things you should take into consideration:
1. Have a Concrete Plan
It would be a great disservice to the entire application process if you do not have a well thought-out and viable plan. Unlike written applications where applicants might not really have to bother themselves with elaborate preparations (and choose to copy application letters from their friends or from over the internet), video applications require extra effort. You need to master your facial features, master the spoken language, and stage an appropriate background. The words to be said in front the camera must have been planned beforehand and memorized, so ensure you practise your speech a couple of times before you begin the actual recording. It’s also important to ensure that you are modestly dressed. You don’t have to be super-formal – unless the job requires it. A plain and clean t-shirt should be enough.
2. Take Your Introduction and Conclusion Seriously
If there’s something that public speaking experts agree on it is the fact that the listeners barely remember word-for-word every content of a speech except for the opening and closing words. A good introduction and conclusion are as important to your application as a solid foundation is to a house. The words you speak should not be the only thing noticeable in your introduction; a friendly smile should precede your speech and you should ensure that you are maintaining eye contact. Accompany that with a greeting and then introduce yourself: state your name, age, nationality, current educational or professional status and accomplishments.
The entire introduction should be well-timed and not exceed thirty seconds.
3. Showcase Your Skill Set
No organisation wants to hire or even accept internship applications from applicants who have skills suited to its operations. To set yourself out from the crowd and indicate that you are a worthy candidate, you must list and explain skills that you have that are relevant to the role. Remember that you are competing with other applicants. Before you start filming, compile a list of relevant skills that you believe you possess and come up with ways in which you think they can help further the goals of the organisation. And always keep in mind that even if you do not possess any work experience, you still have skills. Here are a couple of transferable skills that you can have without much work experience: Adaptability, Communication, Collaboration, Emotional Intelligence, Problem-solving, Time Management, and Negotiation. Finally, be sure to have carried out an extensive research on the organisation so that you can mention how your skills align with its operations.
4. Points to Include in Your Conclusion
As already mentioned in the first item of this list, your conclusion constitutes a crucial component of your application. A good conclusion should contain a statement of how you believe your skills and experience would be beneficial to the organisation, your excitement and enthusiasm for the role you are applying for, and what you intend to gain from the organisation should your application be accepted. In selling your skills ensure you list out and elaborate instances in which you applied them; adopt the CARL technique (Context, Action, Result and Learning).
