How to Effectively Request an Internship via Cold Call on LinkedIn

Looking to land an internship through a cold call on LinkedIn? You're not alone. Many professionals find that personal outreach can be more effective than relying solely on application forms. However, to make a successful connection, your message must be clear, concise, and tailored to the company and position you're interested in. This guide will walk you through the process and provide a comprehensive template to ensure your message stands out.

Preparing Your Message

Before you hit 'send,' take the time to research the company and the person you are reaching out to. Understanding their work, challenges, and mission will help you craft a message that resonates with them.

Introduction

Start by introducing yourself in a clear and concise manner. Mention your background, what you're studying, and why you're interested in the company. Genuine enthusiasm is crucial. Here’s an example:

Hello [Name], I hope this message finds you well. As a [year] student majoring in [Major] at [University], I am deeply passionate about [Industry/Companys Work]. I am reaching out specifically to express my strong interest in exploring an internship opportunity with [Company Name].

Highlighting Your Qualifications

Next, highlight your relevant skills and experiences. This shows that you are more than just a name on a resume. For example:

Through my coursework and extracurricular involvement, I have developed a robust skillset that I believe would be highly valuable to your team. Specifically, I [1-2 key skills/experiences]. For example, I [brief example of relevant project/experience].

Emphasizing Your Enthusiasm and Contribution

Companies appreciate candidates who are not only competent but also enthusiastic about their role and the company. Here’s how you can express your excitement:

I am driven by a genuine curiosity to learn and grow. An internship with [Company Name] would provide me the chance to apply my knowledge in a real-world setting while also affording me the opportunity to learn from your team of experienced professionals. I am confident that this experience would be instrumental in shaping my future career path.

Requesting Next Steps

Finally, provide a clear request for next steps. Ending with a statement like this can leave a lasting impression:

I would welcome the chance to discuss this internship opportunity further and demonstrate how I can be an asset to your organization. Please let me know if you have any questions or if there is any additional information I can provide. I am available for an interview at your convenience.

Remember, the tone should be professional yet personable. Convey enthusiasm and a genuine desire to contribute, while keeping the language concise and focused. Here’s a complete template you can use:

Subject: Internship Opportunity with [Company Name] Dear [Name], I hope this message finds you well. As a [year] student majoring in [Major] at [University], I am deeply passionate about [Industry/Companys Work]. I am reaching out specifically to express my strong interest in exploring an internship opportunity with [Company Name]. Through my coursework and extracurricular involvement, I have developed a robust skillset that I believe would be highly valuable to your team. Specifically, I [1-2 key skills/experiences]. For example, I [brief example of relevant project/experience]. I am driven by a genuine curiosity to learn and grow. An internship with [Company Name] would provide me the chance to apply my knowledge in a real-world setting while also affording me the opportunity to learn from your team of experienced professionals. I am confident that this experience would be instrumental in shaping my future career path. I would welcome the chance to discuss this internship opportunity further and demonstrate how I can be an asset to your organization. Please let me know if you have any questions or if there is any additional information I can provide. I am available for an interview at your convenience.

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