Preparing for Summer

Internship
Goa Institute of Management ‘24
My Journey
● 7+ years of management consulting experience
across PwC US, Praxis Global Alliance and GE
Healthcare
● Industry focus: HealthCare, Consumer & Industrial
Products, Start-ups
● Functional area focus: Growth strategy, GTM, Market
& Customer research, M&A (Due diligence, PMI)
● Education: IIM Mumbai (2016), SPCE Mumbai (2014)
● Conducted 100+ mock interviews, 30+ mock GD
sessions and 15+ training workshops
My Internship Journey…
 Why do companies hire summer interns?
➢ Companies get an opportunity to “Test the candidate” before hiring during final placements
o Companies are eager on understanding How You Think and your Approach to Problem Solving, Not how
quickly you get to a solution
o Will you fit into the company culture?
o Will you work well with others, do you have a professional appearance and mannerisms, can you be
promoted?
o Are you productive, will you get the job done on time, can you be trusted, are you a team player, do you
have the initiative?
➢ Companies get an “outside-in view” of an existing problem statement especially when the management’s
bandwidth is tight!
Few skills which all companies look for in
summer interns
 Preparation before starting your internship
Overview of the workshop
Reflecting on internship experiences
➢ Comprehensive guide to transitioning from
➢ Identify key accomplishments, skills
internships to full-time roles
gained, and lessons learned
➢ Interactive sessions and activities to apply
➢ Discuss challenges faced and how to
learnings
overcome them

Interview preparation for full-time roles Q&A session

➢ Practice answering common behavioral and ➢ Get personalized advice from the
technical interview questions facilitator on your job search
➢ Learn how to ask thoughtful questions to ➢ Opportunity to clarify any remaining
demonstrate your interest doubts or concerns

Enhancing resumes and LinkedIn profiles Networking strategies

➢ Optimize resumes to highlight relevant ➢ Develop an elevator pitch to
internship experiences confidently introduce yourself
➢ Craft a compelling LinkedIn profile that ➢ Identify and connect with
showcases your professional brand professionals in your desired industry
Internship Experience
Key takeaways from the internship experience

➢ Gained practical, hands-on experience applying

classroom knowledge
➢ Developed a better understanding of company Skills and experiences gained
culture and work environment
➢ Strengthened communication, teamwork, and
problem-solving abilities
➢ Participated in projects that expanded technical
and analytical skills

How the internship has influenced their career

goals

➢ Confirmed interest in a particular industry or

function
➢ Identified areas for further growth and
development
 Experience Log
Updating resumes with detailed internship information

➢ Include Relevant Details: Start with the internship title, company name, location, and dates
of employment. Use a clear format to make this information easily accessible.
➢ Use Action Verbs: Begin each bullet point with strong action verbs (e.g., "developed,"
"managed," "analyzed") to convey your contributions and impact effectively.

Using action verbs and quantifiable results

➢ Select Strong Action Verbs: Choose impactful action verbs that convey your
contributions clearly and dynamically, such as "initiated," "designed," "executed,"
or "collaborated." This helps to create a sense of proactivity and leadership in your
descriptions.
➢ Incorporate Quantifiable Results: Whenever possible, pair your action verbs with
specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate the impact of your work. For example,
instead of saying "assisted with marketing," say "developed a marketing strategy
that increased website traffic by 40% in three months." This adds credibility and
demonstrates your effectiveness.

Highlighting key projects and accomplishments

➢ Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers and metrics to showcase your
accomplishments (e.g., "Increased social media engagement by 30%," or "Managed a budget of
$5,000 for a marketing campaign").
➢ Focus on Impact: Describe the significance of your projects, emphasizing how they benefited the
team or organization. This could include improvements in efficiency, revenue growth, or
enhanced customer satisfaction.
Enhancing Resume
Emphasizing transferable skills and achievements

➢ Identify Key Skills: Highlight skills that are relevant across various roles, such as communication,
problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability. Clearly link these skills to your internship experiences to
demonstrate their applicability.
➢ Showcase Achievements: Instead of merely listing responsibilities, focus on specific achievements that
illustrate your abilities. Use bullet points to describe how you contributed to projects or improved
processes, making your resume more compelling.
Quantifying results and impact of work done during internships

➢ Use Metrics and Numbers: Incorporate quantifiable data to provide context for your
achievements. For example, state that you "increased sales by 25% over six months" or "reduced
processing time by 15 hours per week," which gives potential employers a clear picture of your
impact.
➢ Highlight Outcomes: Discuss the results of your work in terms of benefits to the organization,
such as enhanced efficiency, cost savings, or improved customer satisfaction. This helps to convey
the significance of your contributions.
Tailoring resumes for specific job applications

➢ Research Job Descriptions: Carefully read job postings to understand the skills and experiences
that employers value most. Highlight those specific qualifications in your resume to
demonstrate alignment with the role.
➢ Customize Content: Modify your resume for each application by adjusting the order of your
experiences, emphasizing relevant projects, and using keywords from the job description. This
shows that you have taken the time to tailor your application and are genuinely interested in
the position.
Update LinkedIn Profile

Adding internship details and accomplishments Seeking endorsements and recommendations

from colleagues and supervisors
➢ Comprehensive Overview: Include company
name, position, dates, and a brief role ➢ Request Endorsements: Ask colleagues and
description for clarity. supervisors for endorsements or
➢ Highlight Achievements: Showcase significant recommendations to validate your skills.
accomplishments with quantifiable results to ➢ Reciprocate Support: Endorse and
demonstrate your impact. recommend others to foster a supportive
network, encouraging them to do the same
for you.
 Showcasing your internship on LinkedIn
Writing a compelling LinkedIn summary
Highlighting key skills and projects in the experience section
➢ Craft a Personal Narrative: Write a summary
that tells your professional story, including your ➢ Detail Responsibilities and Achievements: Clearly
background, interests, and career aspirations, to outline your responsibilities and specific projects,
engage readers. focusing on what you accomplished and the skills
➢ Incorporate Keywords: Use industry-specific you developed.
keywords and phrases to enhance your visibility ➢ Use Bullet Points: Present information in concise
in searches and attract the right connections. bullet points for easy readability, emphasizing
quantifiable results and impact.

Engaging with your network through posts and updates

➢ Share Insights and Learnings: Post about your internship

experiences, sharing key takeaways, challenges, and
successes to demonstrate your growth and expertise.
➢ Interact with Others: Engage with your network by liking,
commenting on, and sharing relevant content, which
helps to build relationships and increase your visibility.
Networking Strategies
Importance of networking for career advancement
• Access to Job Opportunities: Networking can provide inside information about job openings and help you get your foot in
the door at companies of interest.
• Gain Valuable Insights: Connecting with professionals in your field allows you to learn about industry trends, challenges,
and best practices, which can inform your career decisions.
Leveraging LinkedIn for professional networking
• Connect with Relevant Professionals: Use LinkedIn's search and recommendation features to find and connect with people
in your desired industry or company.
• Engage with Your Network: Regularly interact with your connections by liking, commenting on, and sharing their posts to
stay top of mind and build relationships.
Attending industry events and webinars to expand your network
• Identify Relevant Events: Research and attend industry conferences, meetups, and webinars to connect with professionals
who share your interests and goals.
• Be an Active Participant: Engage with speakers and attendees during events, introduce yourself, and exchange contact
information to foster new connections.
• By prioritizing networking and implementing these strategies, you can build a strong professional network that supports
your career growth and advancement.
Informational Interviews

How to request and prepare for them Benefits of informational interviews

➢ Craft a Polite Request: Reach out via email or LinkedIn ➢ Gain Industry Insights: Informational interviews provide
with a concise message explaining your interest in firsthand knowledge about specific roles, companies, and
their work and requesting a brief meeting (in-person industry trends, helping you make informed career
or virtual). decisions.
➢ Do Your Homework: Research the person’s background ➢ Expand Your Network: These interviews allow you to build
and the company beforehand to ask informed relationships with professionals, potentially leading to job
questions and demonstrate your genuine interest. opportunities or mentorship.

Questions to ask during informational interviews

➢ Career Path and Experiences: Ask about their career journey, including how they got started and what key experiences shaped
their path.
➢ Industry Trends and Advice: Inquire about current trends in the industry, challenges they face, and any advice they would offer to
someone starting out in the field.
 Researching company cultures and job
Preparing for full time requirements

job research ➢ Explore Company Websites and Reviews: Visit

company websites, read employee reviews on
Identifying target roles and companies platforms like Glassdoor, and check their social
media presence to understand their culture
➢ Assess Your Interests and Skills: Reflect on your and values.
internship experiences to identify the roles and ➢ Analyze Job Descriptions: Review job postings
industries that align with your strengths and for your target roles to identify common
passions. requirements and skills needed, which will
➢ Create a Target List: Compile a list of companies that help you tailor your application materials.
interest you, focusing on those that align with your
career goals and values.
Aligning personal career goals with job opportunities

➢ Define Your Career Objectives: Clearly outline your

short-term and long-term career goals, including
desired roles, industries, and professional growth.
➢ Match Opportunities with Goals: Evaluate job
openings against your defined career objectives to
ensure they align with your aspirations and provide
a path for growth.
Crafting a strong cover letter
Customizing cover letters for each application
• Address the Hiring Manager: Whenever possible, personalize your cover letter by
addressing it to the specific hiring manager or recruiter, which shows attention to
detail and genuine interest.
• Tailor Content to the Job Description: Use keywords and phrases from the job
posting to align your cover letter with the specific requirements and responsibilities
of the role.

Highlighting relevant experiences and skills

• Select Key Experiences: Choose 2-3 relevant experiences from your background
that directly relate to the job you’re applying for, providing specific examples of
your accomplishments.
• Showcase Transferable Skills: Emphasize skills that are applicable to the role, such
as teamwork, problem-solving, or technical abilities, and explain how they will
benefit the employer.

Demonstrating enthusiasm and fit for the role

• Express Genuine Interest: Clearly articulate why you are excited about the position
and the company, mentioning specific aspects that attract you to the role or
organization.
• Align with Company Values: Research the company’s mission and values, and
explain how your personal values and career goals align with them, reinforcing your
fit for the role.
 Types of interviews: Behavioral, Technical, Case

➢ Behavioral Interviews: Focus on past experiences to assess how you

Interview Preparation handle various situations; prepare by reflecting on your previous

roles and challenges.
➢ Technical Interviews: Test your specific knowledge and skills related
to the job; be ready to solve problems or answer questions relevant
Preparing responses to common interview questions to your field.
➢ Case Interviews: Common in consulting and analytical roles, these
➢ Anticipate Common Questions: Prepare answers for assess your problem-solving abilities; practice structuring your
frequently asked questions, such as "Tell me about yourself" thought process and articulating your reasoning.
and "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"
➢ Practice Your Responses: Conduct mock interviews with a
friend or mentor to refine your answers and improve your
confidence.

Thoroughly researching the company and role

➢ Understand Company Values and Culture: Familiarize yourself

with the company’s mission, values, and recent news to tailor
your responses and show genuine interest.
➢ Analyze the Job Description: Identify key responsibilities and
required skills, allowing you to align your experiences with what
the employer is seeking.
Behavioural Interview
Questions
Common questions and how to answer them
• Identify Common Behavioral Questions: Prepare for questions like "Describe a time when you faced a
challenge" or "Give an example of a successful team project."
• Reflect on Your Experiences: Think of specific examples from your past that demonstrate your skills and
abilities related to the questions.

Using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure responses
• Situation: Briefly describe the context and background of the situation you faced.
• Task: Explain your specific role and responsibilities in that situation.
• Action: Detail the actions you took to address the situation, focusing on your contributions.
• Result: Share the outcomes of your actions, emphasizing what you learned and how it benefited the
team or organization.
Technical and Case Interviews

Reviewing common technical questions for your field

➢ Identify Key Topics: Research common technical questions relevant to your industry or
role, such as coding challenges for software positions or design principles for engineering
roles.
➢ Study Industry Standards: Familiarize yourself with the tools, technologies, and
methodologies commonly used in your field to demonstrate your expertise.

Practicing case interview techniques and frameworks

➢ Learn Case Frameworks: Familiarize yourself with frameworks such as SWOT analysis,
Porter's Five Forces, or the 4 Ps of Marketing to structure your responses effectively.
➢ Conduct Mock Case Interviews: Practice solving case studies with peers or mentors,
focusing on articulating your thought process and arriving at logical conclusions.
Dressing for Interviews
Guidelines for professional dress codes

➢ Understand the Company Culture: Research the company's dress code policy
(business formal, business casual, etc.) to ensure your attire aligns with their
expectations.
➢ Opt for Neat and Professional: Choose clothing that is clean, well-fitted, and
appropriate for the setting, avoiding overly casual or distracting outfits.

Tips for selecting appropriate interview outfits

➢ Choose Classic Styles: Stick to timeless pieces such as tailored suits, blouses, or
dress shirts in neutral colors that convey professionalism.
➢ Pay Attention to Grooming: Ensure your hair, nails, and overall appearance are
tidy, as personal grooming contributes significantly to the overall impression you
make.
Post-Interview Follow-Up
Sending personalized thank-you notes

➢ Express Gratitude: Send a thank-you note within 24 hours of

the interview, expressing appreciation for the opportunity and
reiterating your interest in the position.
➢ Mention Specifics: Reference particular topics discussed
during the interview to personalize your message and
reinforce your fit for the role.

Maintaining communication with interviewers and recruiters

➢ Stay Engaged: Follow up with a brief email if you haven't heard

back within the timeframe discussed, expressing continued
interest in the position.
➢ Share Relevant Updates: If you acquire new skills or complete
relevant projects, consider sharing these updates with your
interviewers to keep the conversation going.
Leveraging Internship Connections
Staying in touch with your internship network

➢ Regular Check-Ins: Reach out periodically to your internship contacts through email or
LinkedIn to maintain relationships and stay on their radar.
➢ Share Updates: Keep your network informed about your professional journey and
achievements, which can lead to potential opportunities or referrals.

Seeking mentorship and career advice from former colleagues and supervisors

➢ Identify Potential Mentors: Approach colleagues or supervisors you admire and ask if
they would be willing to provide guidance or mentorship as you navigate your career.
➢ Request Informational Meetings: Schedule casual coffee chats or virtual meetings to
seek advice on career development and industry insights.
 Creating a Personal Brand

Defining your unique value proposition

➢ Identify Key Strengths: Reflect on your skills, experiences, and what sets you apart from others in your field to articulate you r unique value
proposition.
➢ Craft a Clear Message: Develop a concise statement that communicates your strengths and what you bring to potential employers or clients.

Building an online presence through blogs, articles, and posts

➢ Share Your Knowledge: Write and publish articles or blog posts on topics relevant to your field to establish yourself as a thoug ht leader and showcase
your expertise.
➢ Engage with Your Audience: Use platforms like LinkedIn to share insights, comment on industry trends, and interact with other pr ofessionals to
enhance your visibility.

Using social media to establish and promote your brand

➢ Curate Your Profile: Ensure your social media profiles reflect your professional identity and are consistent with your personal brand.
➢ Network Actively: Use social media to connect with industry professionals, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions to expand your
network.
Professional Development
Pursuing additional certifications and courses

➢ Enhance Your Skills: Identify certifications or courses that are relevant to your career goals and can enhance your qualifications and expertise.
➢ Commit to Lifelong Learning: Make continuous education a priority to stay competitive and adaptable in your field.

Attending workshops, seminars, and conferences

➢ Expand Your Knowledge Base: Participate in industry-related events to learn about new trends, tools, and best practices while networking with other
professionals.
➢ Engage with Experts: Take advantage of opportunities to interact with industry leaders and gain insights that can inform your career path.

Staying updated with industry trends and developments

➢ Follow Industry News: Subscribe to relevant publications, blogs, and newsletters to keep abreast of changes and innovations in your field.
➢ Join Professional Associations: Become a member of industry organizations to access resources, networking opportunities, and ong oing professional
development.
 Preparing for Campus Placements
Understanding the campus placement process

➢ Familiarize yourself with the campus placement process at your institution, including registration deadlines,
eligibility criteria, and required documents.
➢ Stay updated with placement-related announcements, events, and deadlines through official channels and student
groups.

Strategies for preparing for campus interviews

➢ Research the companies participating in campus placements and their hiring criteria to tailor your preparation.
➢ Practice common interview questions and participate in mock interviews to boost your confidence and
performance.

Leveraging campus resources for career support

➢ Utilize career counseling services offered by your institution to receive guidance on job search strategies and
interview preparation.
➢ Attend career fairs, workshops, and networking events organized by your college or university to connect with
potential employers.
 Mock Interviews and Feedback
Organizing mock interview sessions with peers or mentors

➢ Conduct mock interviews with friends, classmates, or mentors to receive constructive feedback and identify
areas for improvement.
➢ Record your mock interviews and review them to analyze your performance objectively.

Using feedback to improve performance

➢ Reflect on the feedback received and identify specific aspects of your interview performance that need
enhancement.
➢ Implement the suggestions provided by your mock interviewers to refine your responses and delivery.

Practicing responses to common interview questions

➢ Prepare answers to frequently asked questions, such as "Tell me about yourself" and "Why are you
interested in this role?"
➢ Practice delivering your responses with clarity, confidence, and enthusiasm to make a lasting impression.
Real-Life Success Stories

Case studies of successful placements

➢ Showcase real-life examples of students who successfully transitioned from internships to full-time roles.
➢ Highlight the key factors that contributed to their success, such as networking, skill development, and persistence.

Lessons learned from their journeys

➢ Share the challenges faced by successful students during their transition and how they overcame them.
➢ Discuss the importance of adaptability, resilience, and continuous learning in navigating the job search process.

Key takeaways for students

➢ Emphasize the value of internships in gaining practical experience and building professional networks.
➢ Encourage students to proactively seek opportunities for growth and development during their studies.
Managing Job Offers
Criteria for evaluating job offers

➢ Assess the overall compensation package, including salary, benefits, and growth opportunities.
➢ Consider factors such as company culture, work-life balance, and alignment with your long-term
career goals.

Negotiation strategies for salary and benefits

➢ Research industry standards and cost of living to determine a fair salary range for the position.
➢ Prepare a well-reasoned case for your desired compensation based on your skills, experience, and the
value you bring to the organization.

Accepting offers professionally and ethically

➢ Express gratitude for the offer and clearly communicate your acceptance or rejection.
➢ Withdraw your applications from other companies once you have accepted an offer to maintain
professional integrity.
Time Management Skills

Effective time management techniques

➢ Create a schedule that allocates dedicated time for job search activities, academic commitments, and personal well -being.
➢ Use productivity tools and methods to stay organized and focused on your priorities.

Creating a job search timeline and sticking to it

➢ Develop a realistic timeline for your job search process, including milestones and deadlines.
➢ Review and adjust your timeline regularly to adapt to changing circumstances and maintain momentum.

Prioritizing tasks and setting achievable goals

➢ Break down your job search into manageable tasks and prioritize them based on their importance and urgency.
➢ Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals to track your progress and stay motivated.
Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace
Importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in professional
settings

➢ Highlight the significance of EQ in building strong

relationships, effective communication, and resilience in
the workplace.
➢ Discuss how high EQ can contribute to career success and
leadership potential.

Techniques for improving EQ

➢ Practice active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution

skills to enhance your emotional awareness and
management.
➢ Seek feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors to gain
insights into your EQ strengths and areas for
improvement.
Overcoming Job Search Challenges

Strategies for dealing with rejection

➢ Acknowledge and process your feelings about rejection in a healthy manner.
➢ Reframe rejections as opportunities to learn and grow, focusing on the
aspects you can control.

Learning from feedback and experiences

➢ Seek constructive feedback from employers to understand areas for
improvement.
➢ Reflect on your experiences to identify lessons learned and apply them to
future applications.

Staying motivated and persistent despite challenges

➢ Celebrate small wins and milestones throughout your job search journey to
maintain a positive mindset.
➢ Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and mentors
who can provide encouragement and guidance.
 Resources and Tools
Job search websites and platforms (e.g., LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor)
➢ Utilize online job boards and professional networking platforms to discover
opportunities and connect with potential employers.
➢ Leverage company review sites to research organizations and gain insights into their
culture and hiring practices.

Resume and cover letter templates

➢ Use well-designed resume and cover letter templates to create professional-looking
application materials.
➢ Customize your resume and cover letter for each job application to highlight your
most relevant skills and experiences.

Interview preparation resources and tools

➢ Access online resources such as practice questions, mock interviews, and interview
tips to enhance your preparation.
➢ Utilize tools like the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your
behavioral interview responses effectively.
Key Takeaways

Summary of key strategies and tips

➢Emphasize the importance of proactivity, persistence, and continuous learning in the job
search process.
➢Highlight the value of networking, informational interviews, and leveraging campus
resources for career support.

Encouragement to take action and seek support

➢Motivate students to take immediate action on their job search and career development
goals.
➢Remind them of the available support systems, including career services, mentors, and
peer groups.
Q&A Session
Encouraging discussions and sharing experiences
➢Foster an open and engaging environment where students feel comfortable
asking questions and sharing their experiences.
➢Facilitate discussions that allow students to learn from each other's perspectives
and insights.
Providing additional insights and guidance
➢Address students' specific concerns and queries with relevant advice and
resources.
➢Encourage students to continue seeking support and guidance from the facilitator
and other campus resources beyond the workshop.