Fashion Merchandising: Standard 9 Finding a Career in Fashion
Which Job is Best for Me? Determine your aptitudes, skills and interests. Skill: The ability to do something well Ex: Ability to sew might lead to designing or manufacturing Aptitude: a natural talent or ability Ex: Working well with others might lead to sales or marketing Interest: An activity or concept that is enjoyable Interest surveys are questionnaires designed to identify interests through responses to carefully focused questions
Research Now that you have determined your career interests, you can begin researching specific career areas. Career guides are available on-line or at the library Provide information on job descriptions, pay rates, etc. Company website Provide information about their products and company info. Employment opportunities may also be listed.
Skills for Success In order to have a successful career in the fashion industry, it is important to develop professional and interpersonal skills. Two categories: Soft skills Hard skills
Hard Skills Specific, teachable abilities that can be defined and measured. Some common subjects in fashion that would be good to have a basic understanding of are: Forecasting Analyzing Communication Customer Service
Soft Skills By contrast these skills are less tangible and harder to quantify Strong work ethic Positive attitude Good communication skills Time management abilities Problem-solving skills Acting a team player Self-confidence Ability to accept and learn from criticism Flexibility/Adaptability Working well under pressure
Getting the Job Now that you have found a job that interests you, it is time to go and get it! Application Resume Cover letter Interview Follow-up
Application Most business have a standard application form Requiring basic personal information: Name, address, phone number, brief work history, education and references Write neatly and legibly
Resume A document you create to highlight yourself, including: Personal information Skills Work experience Education Activities Honors/awards One page in length
Cover Letter Used when mailing a resume to a prospective employer A brief, one page letter that introduces you to the employer Explains why are applying for the job Opportunity to present info not included in your resume
Interview Face-to-face meeting between you and the prospective employer Tips for success: Dress appropriately/ Well groomed Anticipate questions Be on time Go alone Do not chew gum Talk slowly Use a firm handshake Be confident- Be yourself! Look at the interviewer Listen carefully Explain why you want the job Thank the interviewer
Follow Up Following the interview, send a letter or note thanking the interviewer. Good time to mention anything that you may have forgotten to say in the interview.