I am excited to announce that I recently accepted a social media internship position with Tart-a-licious French Desserts! It’s only been a few weeks, but I love working with this gourmet dessert business, especially since my work can be completed remotely during quarantine.

As a social media intern, I’m helping the owner streamline her social media strategies, create social media content, and really nail down brand voice and narrative. After my internship with bread & Butter last summer, I feel really confident about working in the restaurant industry and all the nuances that come with it.

While the tasks I’m doing are very typical for a social media intern, how I scored this internship position was anything but typical. I had been applying for summer internships like crazy when suddenly COVID-19 put everything on hold. My mom (AKA my #1 fan) likes to browse Nextdoor and when she saw Tart-a-licious’ social media internship job posting in this unlikely place, she knew I would be a great fit. I applied immediately and within 48 hours I had the job. This position is only set to last through May, but I’m already getting great experience and I know I’ll be sad when it’s over!

Well, that’s my story. Here’s my advice on how to find internship opportunities in places that aren’t LinkedIn or another job site…

1. Use any and all connections

Think of the industry you want to work in. Whether it’s fashion, finance, or food, identifying you dream job is the first step in putting your connections to work. You’d be surprised how far an introduction can get you. Any relative or family friend you have working in your dream industry can help steer you in the right direction and talking to the right people. I’ve found that a personal email always gets you farther than a job application.

2. Cold-call businesses

Seem scary? It kind of is. But desperate times call for desperate measures. If local businesses in your industries don’t have job listings for internship positions, reach out and ask if they would consider having one. This doesn’t have to be done over a literal phone call- a polite email will do. Especially during these uncertain times, make sure you include why having an intern will benefit them. They hadn’t seen a need for this position before you brought it up, so make sure to sell it!

3. Social networking sites

These don’t have to be conventional, although asking around on Facebook and Twitter isn’t a bad start. I found my social media internship on Nextdoor, which makes sense because it’s a local business looking for a local intern. If you’re looking to work locally, a local social media site is a good option.

As many corporate offices have closed their doors to interns due to COVID-19, I hope these tips can help you find an internship you love. Stay safe out there!

-K

P.S. While you’re here, you should follow Tart-a-licious on Instagram and Facebook!