Tips & Tricks For Applying to Co-Ops

So you’re applying for co-ops… Congratulations! 

As a former Explore student who has been on one co-op (so far), I’ve compiled some tips for applying to and interviewing for co-ops!

1. Double-check your resume

Use action words in your job descriptions and be specific about your accomplishments. Update your contact information with your current phone number, email, and physical address. Consider having a few different versions of your resume for different types of jobs (this is optional!). Check for typos and formatting errors. Have your co-op coordinator look over it for you and maybe a friend or advisor, too! And finally, highlight your skills, but don’t lie about your abilities!

2. Update your voicemail

Change your voicemail to something professional – some employers call before emailing you. Make sure your voicemail box is not full!  Answer unknown numbers when you are applying for jobs! It could be an employer. The harder it is to reach you, the less likely you are to get an interview and, consequently, the position. 

3. Clean up your social media

Make sure everything on your social media is something you are comfortable with potential employers seeing! You also might want to have a friend google your name and see the first couple of results that pop up. Just in case. 

4. Set up a profile on LinkedIn

Use a professional headshot for your profile picture (not a selfie). Update your headline with your current position – even if that position is just a student! Make sure your current positions are updated, and the information generally matches your resume. However, you can add things to your LinkedIn that you didn’t have space for on your resume – like additional positions or volunteer experience. 

5. Set up your public profile on NU Works

Check with your coordinator before you “publish” your NU Works profile! Add a professional headshot for your profile picture and background photo. Update your contact information – remember – employers can see this! Add your resume so employers can access it easily. Then, publish it!

6. Check the requirements of the application

Most jobs will ask for a resume and maybe a cover letter. However – some positions may require references, writing samples, letters of recommendation, a transcript, or other documentation! Check if you have to apply on the company’s website as well as NU Works. Some places won’t even consider your application unless you have applied on both!

7. Prepare for your interview

Research the position and the organization. Be familiar with the organization’s mission, purpose, and culture. Prepare your answers for common questions, such as “What drew you to this company/organization? How will your previous experience help you in this position? Tell me about a time when you struggled with something.” Practice interviewing with a friend. The more practice you get, the less nervous you will be, and the more confident you will appear to the employer!

8. Finally, don’t get discouraged!

If you don’t get the job, don’t take the rejection too personally (much easier said than done, I know). Sometimes employers hire people for different reasons. So just keep applying and interviewing, and you’ll find where you are meant to co-op!