Mistakes to Avoid While Filling An Internship Application Form

Getting an internship in today's competitive marketplace can be a real challenge if you don't know what to do and what not to do, especially the internship application form itself.

As part of the internship application process, you must fill in an application form with your details and general information regarding your educational background, work experience, skills, etc.

While most candidates believe internship application form to be relatively straightforward, it can cause you much trouble if not filled out correctly.

It is thus advisable that you use proper techniques while filling in this form so that it has the most significant impact on your potential employer and increases your chances of landing the job.

It is important to note that different organizations will have various application forms based on their specific requirements. Still, most internships around the world would ask for similar information.

The required information could include your name, address, contact number, and email address; your academic qualifications and any relevant work experience acquired in your previous jobs or internships may also be your educational qualifications.

Typos

Always proofread.

If you can't handle that, get someone else to do it for you. Poor grammar and typos are immediate disqualifiers in many internship applications.

Don't let a lousy application be your first impression!

Nothing is more glaring than typos, and that's especially true with an application form. Make sure you proofread your answers so you don't look like you were too rushed or careless about submitting your application.

You might also want to ask a friend or family member to go over it for you—they can spot mistakes in writing where you might not be able to.

If possible, apply in advance of your target due date so that you have time to fix any issues with your application (if any).

No Clear Objective

Without an objective on your application, recruiters are left guessing about what type of internship you're looking for and how it fits their organization.

It's easy to fix; list a few objectives on your resume.

For example, To work on writing a successful marketing plan in collaboration with company X employees or gain hands-on experience working in the social media department while building and growing my professional network.

If you want your application form reviewed by professionals, make sure it sounds like you know exactly what you want to do once hired.

Poor English Grammar

Be careful while filling out application forms because poor English grammar may cause rejection.

People check your application form to judge you. So if you don't pay attention while filling up application forms, you may lose a great opportunity.

Always double-check and proofread your work before sending it to your employer/company for reference. If you find mistakes after submitting your job application, never hesitate to correct them or re-submitting them immediately.

The Resume is Merely an Extended Cover Letter

Your resume is your presentation of self. It's what you use when applying for a job or internship, and it details your accomplishments and skills as they pertain to that particular role.

Resumes should generally be two pages—one page if you're young and new to work—but it isn't easy to include everything on one page (especially with a large font). If your application has a word limit, you need an accompanying cover letter.

Cover letters are more involved than resumes—that said, they're also easier because you have all of those extra words!

Applying with Unrelated Experience

Some companies have a narrow range of experience they're looking for on their internship application form. In that case, it's best not to apply if you don't meet their requirements.

But even when there isn't a perfect fit, there is almost always something in your background that can be translated into relevant experience.

Think of it as a simple math problem: What skills or experience do you already have? How do those map back to things you want in an internship? What can you highlight or emphasize on your application form, so it makes sense?

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are a few essential things to remember when filling out an internship application form.

First, be specific about your experience, skills, and qualifications.

Don't just say that you can speak French; include some proof that you've studied it. (For example: Passed an exam for Intermediate French, tutored 15 students over two years).

Second, make sure you cover all of your previous employment histories in detail so that hiring managers can see where your career has been heading—and determine if it will continue on a course at their company.

Thirdly and finally, never lie or misrepresent yourself on any part of your resume; doing so is a great way to get out of consideration entirely!

Free Internship Application Form Templates (for Recruiters)

You can use our ready-made internship application form template to get started. And if you want to build an online application form from scratch, sign up with our free online form builder today.