How to Get a Competitive Edge When Applying to Internships

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Landing an internship in today’s market is no easy feat. With thousands of students and recent grads applying for the same opportunities, it takes more than just a strong resume to break through. The good news? There are strategic ways to stand out and increase your chances of getting hired.

Here’s how you can gain a competitive edge…

🔹 Optimize Your Resume for AI & Recruiters
Most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter candidates before a recruiter even sees them. To make it past these filters, ensure your resume includes relevant keywords from the job description, is formatted simply (no fancy graphics!), and highlights measurable achievements. SCALIS’s AI Resume Parsing feature helps ensure your details are structured for success.

🔹 Leverage Direct Invitations & Referrals
Did you know that 80% of jobs are filled through networking? Instead of applying into a black hole, focus on building relationships. Engage with hiring managers on LinkedIn, attend virtual career fairs, and use platforms like SCALIS, where employers can send personalized invitations to candidates whose skills match their needs.

🔹 Make Your Applications Count
Instead of mass-applying to 100+ positions, focus on a curated list of 10-15 that genuinely align with your goals. Customize your cover letter for each role, demonstrating your enthusiasm and explaining why you’re a great fit. Recruiters can spot a copy-paste application from a mile away!

🔹 Track Your Applications & Follow Up
One of the biggest mistakes internship seekers make is submitting applications and waiting. Keep a spreadsheet—or use a tool like SCALIS’s Job Application Dashboard—to track where you’ve applied, set follow-up reminders, and stay organized. A well-timed follow-up email can make all the difference.

🔹 Showcase Your Skills Beyond a Resume
Internships aren’t just about experience—they’re about potential. Build a personal website, contribute to open-source projects, write LinkedIn articles, or create a portfolio showcasing your work. Recruiters love candidates who go the extra mile to demonstrate their expertise and passion.

The competition may be fierce, but with the right strategy, you can rise above the crowd and secure the internship you’ve been dreaming of.

💡 Looking for internship opportunities right now? SCALIS connects job seekers with top employers who are actively hiring.

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In this episode of Career Hack, Brandon Amoroso sits down with Kevin Johnson, Senior Talent Recruiter at Caylent, to explore the dynamic world of recruitment and career growth. With over 25 years of experience and a journey through explosive company growth, Kevin shares invaluable insights on building talent pipelines, leveraging AI in hiring, and the importance of networking for job seekers. Tune in to discover actionable strategies to stand out in today’s job market!

Here’s What You’ll Learn:

📈 How to scale hiring during explosive company growth

🤝 Why networking and referrals are essential for landing jobs

🤖 How AI is transforming the recruitment process

🎯 Key tips for standing out as a job seeker in competitive markets

📚 How to build experience and overcome entry-level barriers

🌍 Why building a talent pipeline is critical for recruiters and candidates

🎓 The power of internships and early career planning for success

Follow SCALIS on social to stay updated with early career opportunities and exciting new trends!