With summer quickly approaching, the time to look for a summer internship is now. Here are a few tips to prepare you for the search!

1. Update your resumé and create an outline of a cover letter.

In all of your applications, you will need to attach a resumé. You want to make sure your experience and skills are represented correctly and clearly on your resumé. In addition to the resumé, create a template of a cover letter. Each position will require different knowledge and skills, so you should read the job description to know what keywords to use in your cover letter. Most importantly, be careful you are sending the correct resumé and cover letter to each company! You will not get the internship if you say, “It is my dream to work for Disney!” when you are applying for an internship at one of their competitors.

2. Use your network.

Finding internships is often very competitive. There are qualified students from each school interested in every internship. Use your network from LinkedIn, friends, family and your school to find out about internships being offered. These connections might also help you get to the interview stage–make sure the recruiter sees your resumé!

3. Update your LinkedIn profile (or create one).

If you do not have a LinkedIn profile, you are behind the game! Make sure you create an account, which is fully filled out with information regarding your work experience. LinkedIn is a great tool to get connected with people working in different fields and various companies.

4. Keep applying!

You will not always get a call for the first internship you apply for. Do not get discouraged when you have not gotten any calls. Continue to improve your resumé and networking skills, and the right opportunity will come along!

5. Research companies.

Make a list of companies you would like to work for. Search their websites or find connections on LinkedIn of people who work at these companies. Find out if they are offering internships and how you can apply. Additionally, once you are invited for an interview, make sure you research the company to know how their business runs, what their values are, and what products or services they offer before going to the interview. The interviewer will be impressed you did your homework!

6. Understand your goals.

In most interviews (especially internship interviews), they will ask you what your career goals are. Have your answer prepared before the interview. This will help your goals become clear to the interviewer. They want to hire an intern who is passionate about their field!

7. Follow up after the interview.

To display your interest in the position further, follow up with the interviewer after the interview and thank them for their time. Not everyone will follow up after the interview, so this can be your way to set yourself apart from the competition!