Fashion Career Expert: Maria Pesin

I Have A New Job

I haven't been posting the last few weeks as I have started a new job and have been very focused on it.  I left my previous company for a variety of reasons.  But the major one is a difference in opinion on how to run my business.  I disagreed with my previous Boss's approach.  I really felt that we could grow a much bigger business if my CEO was more open to the ideas I gave him.  After 5 years it was time to go.

To get a new job I updated my resume and sent it to several Executive Recruiters.  I also called my store buyers and management and asked them who they felt was the best company to go to.  With these individuals references I called several companies and met with the Presidents.  Luckily I had a new job within 2 weeks.  That is amazingly quick.

I am very fortunate to be where I am.  I am loving this company and the people I work with.  My job is the same as before but with a different label.  My title changed to Vice President, but the job actually has more responsibility. I am very excited to be there and I know I can grow their business and be instrumental in the brands future success.

 

How To Get A Job In The Fashion Industry - Part 3

Networking is a great way to find a job.  But, I don't know anyone, you might say.  It doesn't matter.  There are still ways to do it.  See the list below:

1. Speak to all your friends, family, teachers and acquaintances.  Chances are they know someone.  Ask if they can introduce you.  Meet the person.  Maybe at their office or for lunch.  Just ask if you can speak with them.  Tell them you want to meet people in the industry.  Say that you are very interested in meeting people in the business and you want to learn how the fashion industry works.  They may not have a job available, but perhaps can hook you up with someone.
2. Join organizations that are industry specific and go to their functions.  This is a great way to meet people.  Perhaps you can volunteer for a charity that is directly associated with a company.
3. Look at companies you want to work for.  Find out who is in charge and ask for an interview.  Even if there isn't a job available tell them you want to meet them and learn from them how to get into the business.  Tenacity impresses people.  You never know where it may lead.

 

 

 

How To Look For A Job

Looking for employment can be a full time job in itself.  Many people approach the process half hearted-ly.  It is understandable as it is hard to look for a job.  Both emotionally and physically.  But, if this is something you need to do, then you need to take it very seriously.  If you are out of work, get up in the morning, eat breakfast, take a shower, and sit at your desk as though this was your work.  The message you send your brain will be powerful.  If you are working, than take your lunch hour, or some vacation time and use the same approach. 

The first step is to update your resume so that it shines.  If you look at previous blogs of mine you will get some tips on how to do it.  Next are 6 places to look for a job.

1. Friends and Family - Talk to everyone you know and see if they might know of something.
2. Colleagues - Here you have to be careful who you tell as you do not want it to get back to your boss.  But telling people in your business you are looking is a very good way to go.
3. Want ads in trade newspapers - These are specific to the industry you want to be in so they will  be good places to approach
4. Executive Recruiters - Many people, including myself, find jobs this way.
5. On line job sites - 24/7, Monster.com, careersearch.com, careerbuilder.com.  These are terrific places to look for what is available.
6. College placement offices - The college you attended will usually have job placement offices where jobs are listed.

Try to find a mentor to help you with the process.  Looking for a job can sometimes be disheartening.  Having someone on your side to keep your spirits up can really make a difference.

Good luck in your search.