What do you do if you want to secure an internship in business strategy with a top company?

1 Research Deeply

Thorough research is the bedrock of any successful strategy. When aiming for a top business strategy internship, start by identifying the companies you admire and whose values align with your career goals. Dive deep into their business models, recent initiatives, and strategic priorities. Understanding their corporate culture and industry position will not only help you tailor your application but also prepare you for interviews where you can impress with your knowledge and insightful questions.

2 Craft Your Story

Your personal narrative is your unique selling proposition. It's essential to craft a compelling story that highlights your relevant experiences, skills, and aspirations. When applying for a business strategy internship, focus on instances where you've demonstrated strategic thinking, problem-solving, and leadership. Whether it's through past internships, projects, or even extracurricular activities, make sure to convey your potential to contribute meaningfully to the company's strategic goals.

3 Network Strategically

Networking can open doors that otherwise might remain closed. To secure a top business strategy internship, build relationships with industry professionals and alumni from your institution who work in the field. Attend industry events, join relevant groups on professional networking sites, and reach out for informational interviews. These connections can offer valuable insights, advice, and may even refer you for internships within their organizations.

4 Perfect Your CV

A polished curriculum vitae (CV) is crucial when competing for a high-level internship. Ensure that it's not only free of errors but also clearly showcases your educational background, relevant work experience, and any skills that are pertinent to business strategy. Use action verbs and quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your impact in previous roles. Remember, your CV is often the first impression you make, so make it count.

5 Practice Interviewing

Interviews can be daunting, but with practice, you can become more confident and articulate. Prepare for interviews by researching common questions asked in business strategy internships and practicing your responses. Understand the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique to structure your answers effectively. Mock interviews with peers or mentors can provide feedback and help hone your communication skills.

6 Follow Up

After each application or interview, a well-crafted follow-up can reinforce your interest and keep you top of mind. Send a personalized thank-you note to each interviewer, expressing gratitude for the opportunity and reiterating your enthusiasm for the role. This level of professionalism and courtesy can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to a career in business strategy.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?