How to find smaller physical commodity shops to intern at?

To find smaller physical commodity shops for internships, here’s a strategy based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Target Support/Service Sectors and Related Industries:

   • If you're struggling to find direct trading internships, consider targeting support/service sectors or commodity producers/consumers. These roles are less competitive and can provide valuable experience to boost your CV for future trading positions.
   • Examples include:
     • Container shipping companies or freight forwarders.
     • Warehouses (e.g., Steinweg).
     • Futures brokers or dealers (e.g., Marex Spectron).
     • Trade finance departments at banks.
     • Farms or producers in key regions like the Ivory Coast or Brazil.

2. Leverage Online Research:

   • Use Google to search for smaller firms in your area or specific sectors of interest. Create a spreadsheet with company names, email addresses, and contact details.
   • Tools like Hunter.io can help you find email formats for companies.

3. Cold Email Effectively:

   • Keep your emails concise and professional. Introduce yourself, explain your interest in the energy sector, and highlight relevant skills or experiences. Attach your resume and express your willingness to learn and contribute.
   • Example templates and advice can be found in WSO threads like "Cold emailing to ask for internship - Template Advice."

4. Network Strategically:

   • Reach out to alumni from your school who work in the energy or commodities sector. Use LinkedIn to connect and request informational interviews.
   • Attend industry events or webinars to meet professionals in the field.

5. Broaden Your Search:

   • Don’t limit yourself to trading roles. Internships in operations, financing, or logistics within commodity firms can provide a strong foundation and open doors to trading roles later.

By targeting related industries, leveraging online tools, and networking effectively, you can increase your chances of finding smaller shops to intern at.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/cold-emailing-to-ask-for-internship-template-advice?customgpt=1, What do sophomores usually do for internships?, One Cold Email to Change Your Life (Result right here), Entry-Level Natural Gas Scheduler, Physical Commodity Trading