Step 3: Connecting with Businesses

Connecting with Businesses 

Businesses have told us that before offering an internship, they would generally prefer connecting with students online.

If you see an internship opportunity on JobDUN please contact businesses to introduce yourself (by email or by phone if they have indicated that this is preferred).

If you need advice, your Career Development Support Centre  on campus will assist you with making contact.

Depending on where you are studying, please contact either the Otago Polytechnic or University of Otago Career Services teams if you think you might be a good fit for an internship role and you want some advice or if you need any assistance. 

Contact details are at Careers Success Centre at Otago Polytechnic and University of Otago Career Development Centre.

Once you have made contact with the business they may arrange to meet with you online or in person at their convenience. 

The business will decide if they would like to offer you an internship however there are no guarantees. 

You can view internship opportunities on Meet the Businesses. Business people don't appreciate time wasters, as their time is valuable. Please contact businesses where there is a good chance that your skills will match their needs. 

How to prepare

  • Get a LinkedIn profile.
  • Research the businesses that you're interested in.
  • Prepare a one page overview of your skills, talents and contact details to help you be clear about what you can offer and to give to a business person if required. Email a PDF and Word version of your CV or overview document.
  • Be prepared to talk about what you can offer and why you want to work for their business.