Internships and apprenticeships are excellent opportunities to gain valuable professional experience, expand your network, and open doors to future career prospects. However, the process of finding such opportunities can be challenging, especially for those just starting their professional journey. In this article, we outline how to effectively search for internships and apprenticeships and what to focus on to make the process as efficient as possible.

1. Why is it worth looking for internships and apprenticeships?

For many students and graduates, internships and apprenticeships are the first step toward developing a career. According to a report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), as many as 56% of graduates who completed an internship received a job offer from the company where they interned. In Poland, data from Pracuj.pl reveals that 40% of students and graduates who participated in internships were offered a job at the same company. This means that internships and apprenticeships are not only opportunities to gain experience but also a chance for long-term employment.

2. How to search for internships and apprenticeships?

There are many ways to find suitable internship or apprenticeship opportunities. Here are some of the most effective methods:

  • Job boards – The most obvious place to start is popular recruitment platforms. Websites like Pracuj.pl, LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor offer filters that make it easier to search for opportunities specifically targeted at students and graduates. Regularly browsing these platforms will help you stay updated on current offers.
  • Company websites – Many companies promote internship and apprenticeship programs on their official websites. It’s worth checking the “Careers” section of companies you are interested in. Large corporations such as Google, PwC, and Deloitte often run dedicated programs for students and graduates.
  • Job fairs – Career fairs are excellent venues for direct conversations with company representatives offering internships and apprenticeships. These events are held both in person and online. According to Universum Global, 70% of students attending job fairs established valuable professional connections that helped them secure internships.
  • University career offices – Universities often have career offices that assist students in finding internships and apprenticeships. Regularly check their job postings and attend events they organize with employers.
  • Networking – Professional connections are one of the most important tools in finding internships and apprenticeships. You can ask your professors, friends, or family members for advice or information about open recruitment processes. According to a Jobvite report, as many as 60% of job and internship opportunities come from referrals.

3. What do employers expect?

Understanding what employers look for in potential interns or apprentices can help you better prepare for the recruitment process. Here’s what employers value most:

  • Engagement and initiative – Employers look for individuals who are eager to learn and motivated to acquire new skills. According to National Association of Colleges and Employers, 85% of employers appreciate involvement in extracurricular activities, such as participation in student organizations or volunteering.
  • Communication skills – Clear communication and teamwork abilities are key competencies recruiters value. Data from LinkedIn in 2023 highlights that communication and collaboration are among the most sought-after soft skills in the job market.
  • Knowledge of new technologies – In many industries, familiarity with technology and software tools is essential. In fields such as marketing, finance, data analysis, or IT, proficiency in tools like Excel, SQL, or CRM systems can be an advantage.
  • Non-academic experience – Employers also value experience gained outside of academia, such as work with non-profits, startups, or personal projects. A study by NACE found that 78% of employers prefer candidates with experience from additional activities.

4. How to stand out among other candidates?

In today’s competitive job market, it is essential to stand out during the recruitment process. Here are a few steps that can help:

  • Well-crafted CV and cover letter – Your CV is your business card. It should be clear, concise, and tailored to the specific job offer. Highlight your achievements, skills, and relevant experiences that could be valuable to the prospective employer.
  • Portfolio – If you’re interested in creative or technical fields (e.g., graphic design, marketing, IT), it’s worth having a portfolio showcasing your previous work. This could be a website or a PDF file featuring selected projects.
  • Interview preparation – Proper preparation for an interview is crucial. Familiarize yourself with the company, its culture, and the industry it operates in. Preparing thoughtful questions for the employer demonstrates your interest and engagement.

5. Internship and apprenticeship statistics

Data collected by Zippia shows that in 2022, as many as 64% of students completed at least one internship before graduating. Interestingly, in sectors such as IT and engineering, this figure rises to 71%. In Poland, according to the Graduate Study report from 2022, 30% of graduates declared they participated in internships or apprenticeships during their studies, and 82% of those who completed them considered these experiences key to landing their first job.

Searching for internships and apprenticeships is a critical step in building a career. Through internships, you not only gain valuable experience but also have the opportunity to establish professional connections that can lead to future employment. It’s important to effectively use various channels, such as job boards, networking, career offices, and job fairs, and actively prepare for the recruitment process. Remember, the key to success lies in engagement, proper preparation, and consciously seeking opportunities for growth.

Sources:

  1. National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Report (2022).
  2. Pracuj.pl Report on Internships (2022).
  3. Zippia Internship Statistics (2022).
  4. LinkedIn 2023 Global Talent Trends Report.
  5. Universum Global Research on Job Fairs and Networking (2022).