When you’re making your initial approach into the fashion industry there are a few tips you should know when it comes to getting some eyes on your resume. Here’s a quick list to help you make a great first impression.
1.) Spin it
If your resume lacks actual fashion-related experience, list whatever you have until you get some- then systematically delete the least relevant items as you gain more experience. If you’re on your hustle, it shouldn’t be too long before your resume is full of fashion gigs. Don’t worry that the fashion industry experience you do have is not directly related to the position that you’re currently applying for. Employers in this industry are looking for a diverse skill set in most cases. Even if you don’t get the specific position you are applying for, you might just weasel into a different position within that company if you can prove yourself to be indispensable.
2.) Make things clear
Don’t use kooky, hard to read fonts. Now is not the time to put your arts and crafts skills to the test. Keep it clean, simple, modern, and professional.
3.) Show your skills
When going after entry-level fashion jobs, try to display a unique skill you posses that sets you apart from the competition. Be specific about what makes you a great candidate. For example- are you great at phone sales? Do you have an artistic talent, such as graphic design? You might be surprised at what seemingly unrelated skills your future employer finds attractive.
4.) Get social
Be a social media Jedi, and make sure your resume reflects this powerfully attractive skill set. Don’t think that just because you’re applying at a fashion company that your social media skills are un-related. Some companies will hire you just because of these skills, regardless of your education or past experience. Take note that we’re telling you to become an expert in the social space, not just a user. Bringing some cutting edge strategy to the table is much more impressive than just being aware of how to casually use the various platforms.
5.) Calling all computer nerds
Be a computer nerd, and wave that flag high! Much like the highly coveted skill of social media prowess, having some computer expertise makes you a seriously hot commodity in any fashion office. Especially if you’re a Mac user. 99.9 % of fashion industry professionals use a Mac, not a PC. Some of the skills that put you at the top of the hire list are Photoshop, Illustrator, WordPress, Mailchimp (and other mass email programs), Final Cut Pro, In Design, and HTML/PHP programming. Keep in mind that the entire fashion industry relies heavily on visual arts, so any related computer skills displayed on your resume will definitely make you a serious contender.
In addition to these resume tips, don’t forget to include a brief, concise cover letter! Make sure you do your research on the company you’re applying for and personalize your cover letter based on your research. Nothing says “please don’t hire me” like a totally generic cover letter which opens with a generic cut and paste opener like “Dear Company, blah blah blah”. Refuse to be ignored by making your cover letter and resume stand out!
Good luck out there, and don’t forget to share your success stories in the comments section below.
[image via Glamour.com]
