It’s essential that you don’t underestimate the importance of work experience when it comes to securing a job in the fashion industry.
So whether you are struggling to secure a placement and want to know what employers look for in a placement student, or you want to know how to get the best out of an forthcoming placement then read on. You never know, it could make the difference when it comes to applying for a job.
You may be involved in a course at college or university that includes a ‘work placement’ as part of the curriculum. Some will require you to attend a placement one day a week, some for a whole term or even a whole year. This is a great opportunity to get real experience of the industry which will be extremely valuable when applying for a job.
Securing a work placement
The first thing you will need to do before looking for a placement is to update your CV. Securing a work placement can be extremely competitive – not only will you be facing competition from UK-based students but also those from overseas – so you will need to make sure you put down any work experience you’ve already had as well as other relevant skills and qualities you possess. This could be a Saturday or holiday job.
As well as detailing your academic achievements, it will also be important to show you have skills and interests outside school, college or university. You will also need to thoroughly research the company you are applying to and let them know what you can offer their particular brand in a personalised covering letter.
If the placement you are applying for is design-related, you will also need to produce a portfolio. This can include moodboards, technical drawings, patterns and actual garments you have made.
Next you need to be prepared in case you get invited along for an interview. Employers will understand that you won’t have a detailed career history, so will ask questions that enable them to find out more about your interests and personality. And don’t forget to check the dress code – a suit isn’t always necessary and can often make you feel uncomfortable.
If the course you choose doesn’t give the opportunity for a work placement, then arrange your own. The summer holidays are a popular time to arrange placements, so make sure you apply well in advance. This is your opportunity to showcase your talents and interests so don’t apply to a womenswear company if you are interested in menswear.
Paid or unpaid?
As well as asking yourself how far you are willing to travel, you need to consider if you are willing to work for free. Many work placements, especially those at well-known companies, only offer un-paid placements. Other companies may agree to cover your travel and food expenses alone. You can try to negotiate pay, but if you want to be able to put a big name on your CV you may have to be prepared to work for free.
The placement
Depending on the size of the company you attend on placement, the structure may differ. Larger companies often require work placement students to work on a specific project, where as smaller companies want someone who is willing to be more “hands-on” and work between departments. Details of what you will be required to do can often be sent before you start. You also need to consider how long you are willing to work for. The ideal length of a placement is six months, as this amount of time will enable you to get really involved with a company, taking on responsibilities and learning new skills.
It is important to be realistic about what you can expect to be doing. It is possible that much of your time may be spent on tasks you dislike, such as filing and sorting orders. It is important to remember that these will give you a clear picture of what the job involves and give you a better idea of where you want to be when you apply for jobs after your course is completed.
Keeping a journal or diary whilst on placement can prove really worthwhile, so if you’re not provided with one, create your own. Remember to write down the types of equipment and existing skills you have used and the new skills you have acquired. If you do something that demonstrates newly acquired skills, ask if you can take a copy as evidence or make sure you can reproduce the work you have undertaken. Then at the end of each day write down any questions you may have and remember to ask them.
Whilst on placement, take pride in all that you do – even if all you are doing is counting buttons – as someone will be relying on you to get it right. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, this will show the employer that you are keen and engaged with the process. Remember, the more responsible you are, the more responsibility you’ll be given. If you really impress, you may be asked to contact the company once you have graduated.
After a work placement
Once you have completed your work placement, you will again need to update your CV. Be honest when detailing new skills – don’t say you can do something when you know you can’t – as you just might get caught out! Also, be honest about the names of the companies who have worked for and ask your placement host to provide you with a reference.
Thanks go to Debbie Leon, the founder and director of “Fashionizer” – an international design company that produces couture uniforms – who helped during the writing of this section. Established in 1993, the company has hosted a number of work placement students.
