Getting your first bit of experience in the fashion industry can be daunting, but whether you’re looking to be the internet’s next big blogger, or keen to design the next generation of runway looks, an internship should be an important consideration.
Thanks to our ongoing campaign with AustralianSuper, helping you kick start your creative career, business person and fashion figure Lisa Hyde, is here to help walk you through the best way to launch your career.
This is an easy one, YES! INTERN!
But… make sure you choose a place where you can see yourself working. In my last trimester of my business degree, I was required to intern for eight weeks. While I really wanted to gain experience within the industry, I also wanted to put myself in a position where I could potentially gain a job at the end of my internship that fit with my career goals.
Finding a good place to intern can be competitive, but the good news is there are certain things you can do that will help enhance your chances of securing the right position that will give you necessary skills to take your next step. Here are my recommendations.
Your CV is key.
Make sure you double check what you are sending out. It can be a good idea to ask your lecturer (if you’re studying) or another trusted someone to look over your main documents.
Show enthusiasm towards the job.
In your cover letter explain what you would be able to bring to the role and what experience you’re hoping to gain. The clearer you are about what you hope to achieve, the better the employer can match you to a suitable role.
Bring your “A” game to the interview.
Preparation and research is a MUST. You need to ensure you’ve read up on everything you can about the company you’re applying to work with. Trust me, they will have done their research on you!
Emphasise flexibility.
As an intern you need to be willing to take on anything, so be open to alternate work hours and office arrangements. The ability to say “yes” to new challenges is a very attractive trait.
Ask about full time positions.
If you are putting yourself forward for this role it should be somewhere you want to gain a job at the end. There is nothing negative in asking the question about the internships future. In fact, it will show how keen you are to work with them!
Lisa Hyde is an ambassador, presenter and host across the fashion, travel and beauty circles and founder of Shevoke.
If you’re just starting out in your career, a few right moves early on can help set you up for life. For more stories in our AustralianSuper KickStart series, click here or go to AustralianSuper.
This article has been sponsored by AustralianSuper Pty Ltd ABN 94 006 457 987, AFSL 233788. The views and opinions expressed in any article accessed through theFashionSpot are those of the author or theFashionSpot and not the responsibility of AustralianSuper. For more information, please visit australiansuper.com
