Internships

Do Internships Increase Employability?

Petrina Darrah

Posted: May 12, 2023

In today’s competitive job market, it can be challenging for recent graduates to stand out and secure a job. As a result, many individuals turn to internships as a way to gain valuable experience and skills that can increase their employability. But do internships actually increase employability?

What Are Internships?

First, let’s define what internships are and why they exist. Internships are temporary work experiences where individuals can gain hands-on experience in a specific field or industry. They are typically aimed at students or recent graduates, although some internships may be open to anyone interested in gaining experience in a particular field. Internships can be paid or unpaid, and they can range in length from a few weeks to several months.

There are different types of internships, including summer internships, part-time internships, virtual internships, and full-time internships. Summer internships are typically shorter in duration and are popular among college students. Part-time internships allow individuals to work while still attending school, and virtual internships can be completed remotely. Full-time internships are usually more immersive experiences, where interns work full-time alongside professionals in the industry.

The Benefits of Internships

Internships offer several benefits for individuals looking to increase their employability. Firstly, internships provide an opportunity to gain valuable experience and skills that are relevant to the industry. This can include technical skills, such as computer programming or data analysis, as well as soft skills, such as communication and teamwork.

Secondly, internships offer individuals the chance to network with professionals in the industry. This can be invaluable for individuals who are just starting out and may not have many contacts in the field. Networking can help individuals learn more about the industry, get advice on job searching, and even secure job interviews.

Finally, internships can help individuals build their resume and stand out to potential employers. Having internship experience on a resume can demonstrate to employers that an individual has practical experience in the industry and is committed to pursuing a career in that field.

Do Internships Increase Employability?

Now, let’s address the question at hand – do internships actually increase employability? The short answer is yes. According to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 65% of employers prefer to hire candidates who have relevant work experience, such as internships.

Additionally, a study by the Center for Research on College-Workforce Transitions found that graduates who completed internships were more likely to secure employment within six months of graduation. The study also found that interns were more likely to have higher starting salaries than those who did not complete internships.

To illustrate this point, let’s take a look at GVI’s international Internships. GVI offers a range of internships in fields such as marine conservation, community development, and wildlife research. These internships provide individuals with hands-on experience in these fields, as well as opportunities to network with professionals and gain skills that are relevant to the industry.

GVI’s internships also provide individuals with a range of resources to help them maximise their experience. This includes pre-departure training, on-site support, and post-internship debriefs. These resources can help individuals build their confidence, gain valuable skills, and make the most of their internship experience.

How to Maximise the Benefits of Internships

To get the most out of an internship experience, it’s important to be proactive and take advantage of the resources available. Here are some tips for maximising the benefits of an internship.

Set clear goals

Before starting an internship, it’s important to set clear goals for what you want to achieve. This could include gaining specific skills, networking with professionals, or building your resume. Having clear goals can help you stay focused and make the most of your experience.

Be proactive

Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you – be proactive and seek them out. This could include asking for more responsibilities, volunteering for projects, or reaching out to professionals in the industry. By taking initiative, you can demonstrate your skills and commitment to the job.

Network

Take advantage of the opportunity to network with professionals in the industry. Attend networking events, reach out to individuals on LinkedIn, and ask for informational interviews. Building relationships can help you learn more about the industry and potentially lead to job opportunities down the line.

Ask for feedback

Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback on your performance. This can help you identify areas where you can improve and demonstrate to your supervisor that you are committed to doing your best work.

Reflect on your experience

After completing your internship, take some time to reflect on what you learned and how you can apply it to your future career. This can help you identify areas where you excel and areas where you may need to improve.

In conclusion, internships can be an effective way to increase employability by providing individuals with valuable skills, experience, and networking opportunities. While there is no guarantee that an internship will lead to a job offer, completing an internship can certainly increase an individual’s chances of getting hired. By being proactive and taking advantage of the resources available, individuals can maximise the benefits of their internship experience and set themselves up for success in their future careers.

By Petrina Darrah

Petrina Darrah is a freelance writer from New Zealand with a passion for outdoor adventure and sustainable travel. She has been writing about travel for more than five years and her work has appeared in print and digital publications including National Geographic Travel, Conde Nast Travel, Business Insider, Atlas Obscura and more. You can see more of her work at petrinadarrah.com.

Speak to us about special offers

Everyone’s invited. Get up to 80% of your program fees covered.

GVI Foundation Grants are now available for conservation programs abroad. Up to ZAR 100,000 based on your motivation and circumstances. Apply by 30 Nov.

Apply

what’s up next?

Top 12 Employability Skills Employers Look For

Learn about the importance of employability skills in this article. Discover the top 12 employability skills that employers look for when considering potential hires.

GVI

Posted: August 5, 2023

Read the article