Looking Beyond Job Boards: Mining LinkedIn and Reddit for Internships
Tired of scrolling through overflowing job boards and submitting application after application? As a college student, you need an efficient way to pinpoint internship opportunities perfect for you.
The solution? Look beyond congested aggregators and leverage more targeted communities like LinkedIn and Reddit. By tapping into specialized networks and insights, you can efficiently filter openings without getting overwhelmed.
Read on to learn insider tips for mining internship gold through these two platforms.
Master LinkedIn for Industry Connections
With over 800 million members, LinkedIn operates as an invaluable networking resource. Beyond job hunting, the platform provides insider access to professionals and organizations in your desired industry.
Start by optimizing your student profile. Craft a compelling summary that spotlights relevant coursework, skills, and goals. Use eye-catching headers and bullets to call out highlights. Include experience entries for campus leadership, class projects, and volunteer work.
Next, follow companies that interest you to stay on their radar. Join relevant industry and alumni groups to access shared job postings and community discussions. Engage actively by commenting on articles, asking questions, and sharing your own content.
You can also search internship listings located under Jobs > Internships. Use filters like company, date posted, and location to narrow options. Enable notifications so LinkedIn emails you the latest additions.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of direct outreach through LinkedIn. Identify employees at target organizations and request informational interviews to learn about their internship programs. Sign up for LinkedIn Premium to unlock messaging capabilities.
Crowdsource Insights from Reddit
Known for its authentic crowdsourced advice, Reddit hosts thriving communities covering specific careers, colleges, and topics. Subscribe to relevant Subreddits and browse previous posts for insider perspectives on landing internships.
For example, /r/internships offers a forum for candid questions and stories about applying for and succeeding at internships. You’ll glean advice for maximizing programs and hear uncensored takes on company cultures.
Niche communities like /r/csinternships and /r/Advertising_Internships also provide targeted glimpses into specific industries. And university pages like /r/BostonU feature school-specific tips.
Make posts expressing your unique situation or challenges and leverage the hive mind. If struggling to find biology research internships as a Penn State Junior for example, post for recommendations. Fellow Redditors will chime in with ideas and actionable suggestions.
Instead of combing cluttered job boards, access insider perspectives and opportunities on LinkedIn and Reddit. By tapping into specialized networks, you can surface ideal internship openings tailored to your skills and interests. Now get out there, make connections, and land that dream role!