By John Kigozi
Securing a good internship opportunity in countries like Uganda where opportunities may be limited due to networking or connections can be challenging.
However, with persistence and strategy coupled with a long wait after series of CV rejections, sometimes it’s possible to acquire that job. In this article, our reporter takes you through 10 tips that can help you acquire a valuable internship.
1. Start Early: Begin your search early. Many internships are competitive, and early applicants often have an advantage. Therefore, it is important that one starts networking and applying a few months before the intended start of their internship.
2. Leverage University Resources: Many universities have career centers or partnerships with companies that offer internships. Many students however, do not know this or they just tend to ignore but reaching out to your university’s career office for guidance, job fairs, and internship listings can help in getting a valuable placement.
3. Build a Strong CV/Portfolio: This does not mean that you need to lie. Even if you have worked in only one place, it is important that while writing your CV, you highlight your skills, achievements and any volunteer work. Tailor your CV to reflect the skills the employer might be looking for. Include a portfolio if your field is design, media, or tech-related.
4. Network Strategically: Even if you don’t have high-level connections, you can still network. Attend industry events, seminars or workshops. Similarly, you can join LinkedIn, follow companies of interest, and engage with professionals in your field.
5. Volunteer: Offer to work for free in exchange for learning experience. Volunteer at NGOs, community organisations, or local businesses. This often leads to opportunities later on.
6. Consider Startups: Smaller companies and startups may not have the strict application processes of larger companies and might be more open to hiring interns based on enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
7. Cold Email/Call Companies: Research companies that interest you and send them personalised emails. Express your desire to learn and grow through an internship. A personal approach can sometimes work in smaller markets.
8. Learn New Skills: Increase your attractiveness to employers by learning in-demand skills. Use platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or Udemy to gain certificates in areas that are relevant to your industry.
9. Be Active on Social Media: Join professional groups and participate in conversations relevant to your field on platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Engage with content related to companies or sectors you are interested in.
10. Consider Interning Abroad: Explore remote internship opportunities with international companies or programs that offer cross-border internships. Some global organizations have virtual internships, which you can apply for and complete from anywhere.
Moses Ssonko, a professional counsellor in Kampala, says while connections are helpful, showing initiative, perseverance and the right skills can make a significant difference in anyone getting a job.
He however, advises that now that trends have changed in the country, students while still at the university, they should focus on obtaining skills that can enable them start up their own jobs.
“Growing up my dream job was to be a bank manager, but I’m over 40 years and that dream is no more so imagine if I had waited for that job. You need to start up something even if it is small as you apply and hope on God to grant you your dream job,” he says.
