There is hope yet for designers who feel like they have become stuck in
their roles after landing their first job, or are unsure of what step to
take next. In order to help out high-aiming designers, we have compiled a
list with the ten tips designers should take to excel in the fashion
industry.
Plan your exit smartly. Although millennials are known to jump from job to
job after graduations until they find their sweet spot, this is unadvisable
for professionals who are more established in their careers as it can make
you out as a flight risk to potential future employers.
Keep in touch with your selected recruiters, make sure they have your up to
date resume and know you are looking to move. To enhance your chance of
landing a new job, maintain relationships with numerous recruiters as the
relationship only becomes exclusive when you have received a job offer via
a recruiter and take it.
Having connections in the right circles can offer you a fast track to your
new job. The right connections can put you in front of a company’s hiring
manager first thing Monday morning, as your resume can get lost in a pile
of papers on the HR managers desk.
Do not let yourself be pigeonholed, even if you have worked as a shirt
designer for the past two years. If you want to break free of labels, make
sure your resume and portfolio showcase all your abilities and talents.
Nowadays it is common for fashion companies to ask
shortlisted candidates to complete a project for them as part of the
interviewing process. This is your chance to show off your understanding
of the company’s DNA, market position as well as your skills and talents.
As the newest member to any team (and potentially the youngest) it is key
you able to bring in the influences of the outside world to your role and
team. Enjoy the responsibility of keeping things new and fresh, which will
be appreciated.
The combination of the industry’s multibillion dollar turnover and big egos
can led to out of control personalities. Try not to let this defer you as
people in the industry change their minds at any whim and expect you to
always be on top of the ball. Do not take it personally.
Even though the industry has come back from the recession, upper middle
design positions are still hard to come by as many companies hire
one candidate to carry out many jobs in one. So if you do get a senior
position, be prepared to multitask.
Do not let your inner artist go hungry and let your creativity flow outside
your job whenever possible. It will pay you back in ten fold and help you
bring more to the table at work.
Aim to become an expert in your field, keep your kills sharply honed and
don’t get too comfortable. Establish yourself as an individual as well as
part of the team. Take charge of your career and steer it consciously,
looking laterally for ways to apply your expertise.
Photos and sketches: Jackie Mallon
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