There are some basics on what to bring when interviewing in
the fashion industry. While some people over-prepare, some under-prepare. On
more than one occasion I have had a design candidate show up for an interview
with me without a portfolio. Interview over. Every candidate should bring a
couple copies of their resume, but every designer must have their portfolio.
That’s a short list of must haves. The list of nice to haves can be much
longer.
If you are a merchant candidate and really want to set
yourself apart, maybe bring a market analysis. Something physical to show you
understand the brand, the competition and the major challenges facing the
market will show you are really excited about the position and company. This
gives you a leg up on other candidates.
For a production
/sourcing candidate, perhaps bring a brand analysis. What is the major line of
business for the company you are interviewing with? Where are they producing
their products? How are their price points relative to competition? How could
you do better? For example if you are interviewing with a denim company, have
you looked in labels to see where they produce? What are the washes, quality of
denim they are using? A report suggesting how you could do even better and what
costing you could achieve is a great way to set yourself apart from other
candidates.
For a designer, what could enhance your portfolio? I have
had candidates bring large sample bags and set up presentations. I have also
seen people go the extra mile with an additional digital presentation. When I
see someone get that excited and take the extra step, I tend to get excited
about them.
Of course all of the above nice to haves are above and
beyond the call of the interview duty. If done incorrectly, an extra like this
could hurt your chances of landing that job. If done well, you will be top of
mind for the brand.
What’s in your bag when you show up for an interview? If you
are really excited about a company, what could you do to go the extra mile? If
you only bring must haves on an interview, what’s holding you back from doing
more?
No comments:
Post a Comment