ByFinding reputable internships in Kenya can be hard. However, it is an activity that bears experiences, as a result of which you will have enhanced your professional network and better the odds on getting a place to work.
The purpose of this guide is to try and make the process something a little bit easier for you to handle.
From research tips to application strategies, we cover it all to make your internship search successful.
Understanding the Importance of Internships
The internship provides on-the-job training within a specific area, initiates professional networking, and increases the probability for job offers.
According to Forbes, internships are crucial in today’s job market for the following reasons:
- Skill Enhancement: Gain practical experience.
- Networking Opportunities: Build professional relationships.
- Resume Building: Strengthen your CV.
- Career Exploration: Identify or refine your career interests.
- Employment Potential: Increase chances of job placement.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Internships
Step 1: Self-Assessment
Before commencing the search, reflect on your interests, capabilities, and career aims. This very important first step in initiating the entire job search process lays down the foundation. The following questions may help:
- What are my pros and cons? Deciding on a career can be informed by knowing where you stand.
- Which are the sectors in which I really have an interest? Your job search can be more focused and fulfilling if you decide which industries interest you or fit with your values.
- Which competencies do I wish to enhance further? Finding positions that offer chances for advancement and professional development. This can be easier if you are aware of the competencies you want to improve.
Step 2: Research
It is possible to find internships in Kenya by exploiting the different platforms and resources available to us. Here are some of the most common ways that will really boost your search for internships:
Online Job Portals: A considerable number of online job portals in Kenya are with specific intent to serve Kenyan employers and employees. Important platforms that you should look into are:
Internships.co.ke , Fuzu and KenyaMoja are excellent resources for finding internships because they give a broad spectrum of listings, which would ultimately connect you with different opportunities.
Company Websites: Another useful strategy involves looking directly at the career sections of websites of companies you’re interested in. Online job postings for internships are regularly posted by companies such as Safaricom, KCB Bank, and East African Breweries. This allows you to keep track of new job postings and apply for positions that fit your career objectives.
Getting your current network up to snuff is also key. This means reaching out to former students, teachers, or faculty members who may know someone in your area of interest or have insights and opinions.
Webinars and networking events can be very instrumental in finding internship opportunities .According to a LinkedIn survey, 85% of jobs are filled through networking. It drives home how important it is to build and maintain business connections.
Lastly, one can find internship postings on social media. Twitter and LinkedIn are great resources for finding internship postings. Not only can these platforms help you search and apply for jobs, but they also let you connect with possible employers in a straightforward way. You can follow businesses and go behind the scenes of industry-relevant content to increase your visibility and network within your chosen field.
Step 3: Creating an Effective Resume and Cover Letter
A couple of important assets that can make you distinct from other candidates vying for the same job are the CV and cover letter.
Your educational background plus skills with any work experience should be clearly shown on your resume. However, do tell us why you want the internship in this cover letter and go an extra inch in telling what value you can offer
- Resume Tips:
– Keep it concise and focused to ensure clarity.
– Highlight any relevant experience and essential skills.
– Include notable academic honors or key extracurricular activities. - Cover Letter Tips:
– Customize it for each specific application to show genuine interest.
– Explain in detail why you are particularly interested in the company.
– Highlight your pertinent skills and demonstrate how they align with the internship requirements.
Step 4: Application Process
When applying for an internship, make sure to:
- Follow all instructions provided in the internship listing meticulously.
- Follow the application guidelines and submit your cover letter and resume.
- If more documentation is needed, then please supply it, including any necessary academic transcripts.
Step 5: Prepare for Interviews
You will, in all likelihood, be invited for an interview once shortlisted. Here is how to effectively prepare:
- Research: Delve deeply into understanding the company’s mission, values, and recent developments. This includes knowing their products, their place in the market, and any notable achievements or news features.Extensive inquiry proves your genuine enthusiasm for the business.
- Practice: Engage in mock interviews to practice answering typical interview questions.You can, when you practice this, speak more confidently as well as clearly.You can ask a friend or use online resources to simulate interview scenarios.
- Dress Appropriately: Pay attention to your attire because first impressions are crucial.Your appearance during an interview is what will either make or break it in the eyes of those determining your fate.
Step 6: Following Up
You should send a thank-you note via email after the interview. A small way of thanking people who interviewed you and it will tell them that you are interested in job opportunity that’s just common courtesy. You just might sway the opinion of your interviewers by leaving them to make a good impression in their follow-up.
Step 7: Evaluate Offers
When you have to choose between several internship offers, consider the following :.
- Learning Opportunities: Carefully evaluate the type of skills and knowledge you will gain and how they align with your career goals.
- Company Reputation: Conduct thorough research on the company’s reputation and credibility within the industry, as well as its work culture.
- Compensation: Make sure the offered stipend, salary, and any additional benefits such as health insurance or housing allowances are sufficient to meet your financial needs and expectations.
- Location: Take into account the location of the internship in terms of travel, daily commute, and the overall living conditions in that area.
Conclusion
Getting a good internship placement in Kenya is a chess game. However, these steps will up your chances of bagging an internship that is worthy of your career goals. Remember — relentless & prepared.
