Securing an internship – Business, Economics and Law

Expressions of interest have a limited chance of success if you don't show that you've researched the company.

Create a shortlist of at least 5 companies and research each one before sending your cover letter. Research helps you prepare for interviews and understand company values, culture, and teams. Employers want to see a genuine interest.

Once you’ve explored those, shortlist another 5. More applications increase your chances of securing an internship.

Take advantage of exclusive BEL internship opportunities or make your own connections using:

• UQ StudentHub
• Global Mobility Internships
• Prosple
• Seek
• Indeed
• GradConnection.

Don't overlook small and medium-sized companies; these can offer valuable learning experiences.

Be discoverable

If you don’t have a LinkedIn profile, create one now. It allows potential employers to see your skills at a glance and you can start building a network of professional connections. 

Use your connections

Reach out to your personal networks — friends and family may know of opportunities.

Resume writing resources

The first step in securing any internship or job is having a professionally presented, up-to-date resume and cover letter.

If you don’t have one yet, you may find the following resources helpful to get started and guide you through the process:

• Resume and cover letter writing guide (PDF, 127.8 KB)
• Complete the "crafting a resume" and "writing a cover letter" modules on our BEL Employability courses page.
• VMock Smart Resume - an online smart resume checker.

Tailor your resume and cover letter to each opportunity

Before drafting your resume and cover letter:

• Research the company thoroughly.
• Highlight soft skills that match the opportunity.
• Don’t worry about lacking technical skills; these can be developed during your internship.
• Know your value proposition. Resumes are often scanned in just 6 seconds, so make your strengths clear.

Your cover letter should include:

• why you’re applying
• your interest in the company
• what you hope to learn
• your value proposition
• your availability.

Include up-to-date contact details

• Use contact details for inboxes and platforms you check daily.
• Ensure your voicemail greeting is professional.
• Use a professional email address (e.g., avoid informal ones like princess@gmail.com).

Expect employers to call

Only answer unknown numbers if you can speak professionally. Otherwise, allow it to go to voicemail and return the call when you are prepared.

Track your applications. If you haven’t heard back within 2 weeks, follow up via email or phone.

Stay positive and proactive—persistence is a key part of the process.

Make use of all tools available to present your best self and seek guidance from a WIL Advisor at employability@bel.uq.edu.au.