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would like to know what the biggest challenges for a newcomer in the fashion merchandising industry is. Can anyone who just graduated from college expand on this for me?

#1 Faby on 2007-07-13 23:30 (Reply)

Hi Faby, I don't work in the fashion industry, but was really considering it when I was in college so hopefully I can help a bit. I think that like any industry, getting your foot in the door at any fashion company would be one of the biggest challenges. Getting an entry-level job in the industry is tough, but you just have to put yourself out there, send out lots of resumes and know a LOT about the fashion industry.

Check out job posting and career advice on www.monster.com, www.monstertrak.com, www.careerbuilder.com, www.craigslist.com, www.hotjobs.com, and also http://www.collegegrad.com/ . This last one is geared toward recent college grads.

Lastly, do what you can to find contacts in the industry - those will be excellent resources as well. I think that once you have your first job, you'll have more credibility and leverage towards the next one that you really want.

Hope that helps!

#1.1 Yu on 2007-07-17 11:33 (Reply)

Yu, can you tell me if getting a Masters Degree would be better then earning a Bachelor’s Degree, in reference to getting "your foot in the door?"

I'm going for my Masters Degree and I would like to know how it would benefit me.

#1.1.1 Dominic John on 2007-09-12 18:23 (Reply)

A Masters degree is quite an accomplishment! It indicates that you have continued your education in a specialized field, making you a valuable asset to your studied industry. In the fashion biz, the more you know about all aspects of the trade, the better equipped you are to work with the insiders. Not to mention, many grad students research their thesis or mentor with professionals in their desired industry. I can't think of a better way to "get your foot in the door" than making connections while becoming a well-educated expert.

#1.1.1.1 Jennifer on 2007-09-17 10:09 (Reply)

Hi Faby,
The fashion industry is extremely competitive…as I am sure you know! As a fashion writer and show producer, I have spent many (and I mean MANY) years working in retail sales at mall chain stores and eclectic boutiques. I learned so much setting up corporate floor layouts, window displays and running sales & business reports. I learned even more working directly with a small boutique owner – assisting her on all her buying trips to NYC, trade shows, accessories shows, etc. I also spent time right out of college interning for FREE with local fashion designers and charity organizations producing fashion show fundraisers. Although interning/volunteering doesn’t pay the rent, it does help you make connections within the industry. Whether you live in NYC, Miami, LA, or a small town in the Midwest, working with the right people in your area can open doors for you elsewhere. While interning on a fashion show, I was offered a job to produce a small-scale Prom fashion show at a high school… that job lead to charity event and so forth. The key is to figure out where your niche is the fashion industry is the strongest and make it happen. It is challenging to make a name for yourself in any industry, but being persistent will keep you out there and the industry will start to recognize what you have to offer! And don’t forget to dress the part – this is where you can truly make a statement!

#1.2 Jennifer Petrini on 2007-07-18 10:38 (Reply)