Who You Know vs. What You Know

As frustrating as it may sound for some, often times who you know will get you the interview, but it's what you know that will get you the job (internship). Expanding your networking and meeting as many people in the field as possible will prove beneficial as these people will help you get your foot in the door for that initial interview. However, a mistake that is often made is relying on those personal resources to actually get you the job. That's where the "what you know" aspect comes into play. Your personal resources cannot interview for you, therefore it is your responsibility to "wow" your interviewers with what you know, what you've done (remember, experience is critical), and how you will add value to their company or organization. Just because you know the VP of Stadium Operations at the Boston Red Sox, for example, does not mean that you are a "shoe in" for an internship in the Marketing Department.

Take the time to get to know people in the industry, create strong relationships, and a valuable network. But please also make sure to gain experience and develop your skills and knowledge because those are the things that will get you the farthest in this industry.