Internships are one of the best ways to gain industry experience, build a professional network and develop practical skills at the start of a career. Competition can be fierce, but there are simple ways to make an application stand out. 

From avoiding common mistakes to sharing what worked for her, APL Media’s editorial intern Grace Clift shares seven tips for securing a media internship. 

1. Take the cold (email) plunge  

Don’t be afraid to email people you admire. I secured my six-week internship at APL Media after reaching out to Georgia Stephens, features editor at National Geographic Traveller (UK), to compliment her on one of her print articles and to say that I was interested in seeing the magazine’s production in person. Plus, many companies don’t publicly announce they offer early work experience, so it’s always worth sending that email.  

2. Build a portfolio 

The strongest applicants demonstrate existing experience in the internship’s focus area, as well as some general media skills. To build your portfolio early on, make use of your personal social media profiles by regularly writing about a topic on Substack or producing short-form content for social platforms such as TikTok. University publications can also be an accessible way for students looking to get their first bylines. 

3. Make yourself known  

LinkedIn is a powerful tool, not only for connecting aspiring media professionals with entry-level opportunities, but for chronicling a career journey. A frequently updated LinkedIn profile — even if just to share projects you’ve worked on, articles you’ve enjoyed, events you’ve attended or skills you’re developing — demonstrates that an applicant is actively interacting with the industry and regularly achieving new milestones.   

4. Diversify your CV  

The best CVs demonstrate flexibility and openness. No internship covers just one area of expertise — you may be great at writing features, but it’s likely you’ll need to work on social media or marketing, too. Applicants shouldn’t just showcase one style of writing either. Being able to write formally and casually, for different types of newspapers, websites and magazines proves that you can adapt to various styles and tasks.  

5. Do your research 

Media internships get hundreds of applications, and many of them are entirely generic. It’s likely editors will have read ‘Dear reader’ countless times before they get to your application, so showing that you’ve taken the time to find out their name may make them pause. Learn about the structure of the company, the titles they produce and mention any projects you’ve enjoyed. Don’t shy away from adding details. 

6. Grow your network 

Opportunities can come from the most random encounters without forcing connections at stuffy events. Media societies at universities are particularly useful for stepping into a network of like-minded creators early on, but reaching out to people directly on social media can unearth just as many leads. Don’t be afraid to connect with those in your dream job right now and ask them for advice over a coffee.  

7. Be persistent  

Media internships can be fiercely competitive, so it’s best to become comfortable with rejection. It can be difficult, but it doesn’t mean you aren’t good enough or won’t be able to enter the industry. Rejections are often about timing and budget as well as competition. I’ve been rejected lots of times before, but then I found my dream internship here at APL Media.  
 
One practical tip: Instagram has become a useful place to spot creative job opportunities, so follow careers pages and purposefully linger on posts for a second longer to curate an industry-centric algorithm that does half the work for you.  

Breaking into media rarely happens with one application. Every email you send, portfolio piece you publish and connection you make builds towards the next opportunity. Stay curious, keep creating and don’t let rejection stop you from applying again. 

More helpful resources:  

• Journo Resources  
• Freelance Writing Jobs  
• Internships in Marketing, Media & PR | Bright Network  
• @_creativelives on Instagram 
• @youthbeyondborders on Instagram  

Are you interested in reading about what qualities APL Media looks for in an intern? Visit: https://aplmedia.co.uk/top-qualities-we-look-for-in-an-intern/  

### 

About APL Media 
APL Media is a multi-award-winning content marketing agency and publisher, creating high-quality print, digital and live media across the travel and lifestyle sectors since 1997. It has published National Geographic Traveller (UK) under licence from National Geographic Partners LLC since 2010, alongside brand extensions including guides, events and digital platforms. Its portfolio includes Living360, a digital lifestyle brand spanning wellness, travel, food, sustainability and culture.  

APL Media delivers custom content, branded campaigns and editorial consultancy, internship schemes including Step Up and produces leading events such as the Travel Media Awards. It’s also a leading reseller of advertising for national newspapers. Its trade titles include Postcards and the ASTA Worldwide Destination Guide, with content also created for national newspapers. aplmedia.co.uk