How to cold email for an internship

Most people hate the thought of cold emailing...

But when it comes to internships...it can be a powerful tool.

By using the right strategies, you can open doors to amazing opportunities.

With this guide, you'll discover 10 must-know strategies for successful cold emailing for internships.

We'll cover everything from how to find the right contacts to how to craft the perfect cold email internship template.

Ready? Let's dive in!

1. Start with your network:

Before you start cold emailing for internships, it’s important to exhaust all of your personal resources first. Ask family and friends if they know anyone who can help you find an internship.

Template for inspiration:

"Hi, I wanted to see if you know anyone in the industry who could help me find an internship. Any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated."

2. Do your research:

Once you’ve exhausted all of your personal resources, it’s time to start researching potential internship opportunities. Use online job boards and search engines to find openings in your area or industry.

Tip: Don't forget to check out company websites and social media accounts for any available positions.

3. Target the right people:

Once you’ve identified a few potential opportunities, it’s time to start cold emailing for an internship. Make sure that you target the right person - usually someone in HR or recruitment - so that your email doesn’t get lost in a sea of other applicants.

Example Template:

"Dear HR Manager,

I’m interested in learning more about the Internship position available at your company. I believe my skills and experiences are an ideal fit for this role."

4. Craft the perfect subject line:

A good subject line can make all the difference when it comes to cold emailing for an internship. Make sure to include keywords from the position and something unique about yourself, such as how you can solve a problem or how you can add value to the company.

Template ideas:

-"Recent Graduate Seeking Internship: Unique Skills for Problem-Solving"

-"Experienced Marketing Professional Interested in Internship at ABC Company"

-"{{FirstName}}: A Passionate {{Industry}} Student Interested in Internship"

5. Personalize your email message:

Once you’ve crafted the perfect subject line, it’s time to write the body of your cold email. Make sure to personalize your message and highlight how your skills and experiences make you a unique candidate for the position.

Template ideas:

"My experience in {{field}} gives me a unique perspective on how to approach projects and how to collaborate with others. I also have a strong interest in {{industry}} and have been researching the sector for some time."

6. Keep it short, but sweet:

When cold emailing for an internship, it's important to keep your message concise and to the point. No one wants to read a longwinded email that doesn’t get to the point.

Template ideas:

"I am confident that my experience and knowledge make me an ideal candidate for this position. I would love to discuss how I can contribute to your team. Please let me know how I can be of assistance."

7. Follow-up:

Don’t be afraid to follow up if you don’t hear back right away. After a week or two, try sending another cold email with a friendly reminder of your interest in the position and how your skills could be beneficial to the company.

Template ideas:

"I hope all is well! I wanted to follow up on my previous email and express my continued interest in the {{position}} internship. I am confident that I could contribute with {{skill/s}}. Please let me know how I can be of assistance."

8. Show off your work:

If you have a portfolio, website, or blog related to the position you're applying for, make sure to include a link in your cold email. This is an excellent way to show how you can add value and how your skills can be beneficial to the company.

Example Template:

"I'm excited about this opportunity and would love to discuss how I can contribute. Here are some examples of my work: (link/s)."

9. Close with grace:

Once you’ve included all of the necessary information in your cold email, it’s time to close with class. Thank them for their time and express how excited you are about the opportunity.

Template ideas:

"I am confident that I could make a positive contribution to the team at {{company}}. Thank you for taking the time to read this email and I look forward to hearing from you."

10. Don’t give up:

Cold emailing for an internship can be a daunting process, but don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back right away. Keep trying and remember to tweak your message each time you send it out. With the right words and the perfect template, you’ll land that dream internship in no time!