In the fashion industry, there are stepping stones. You don’t just come out of school and get your dream job. There are things you need to go through to build character, learn the industry, and figure out your own path. One of the first jobs that should come to mind is assistant if you want to learn the ropes. Think The Devil Wears Prada, but not as intense. Not every boss will be Miranda Priestly. Becoming an assistant to anyone in fashion will help catapult your career.

Learn the Ins and Outs
If you become an assistant for someone in the fashion industry, whether it be in magazines, retail, designers, the list goes on, you will learn the ins and outs of that niche. If this is the path you want to go down, that’s great, you know what to expect. You are able to see the good, the bad and the ugly. However, if you’re working in a niche and you realize that it isn’t the path you want to go down, no harm done. You are free to move on.

Build a Great Work Ethic
Yes, you may be fetching lattes or dropping off dry cleaning, but you are building a great work ethic. No matter how menial the task may be, do it to the best of your abilities. You may be picking up coffee, but if it’s done with a smile on your face, it will be noticed.

Network
If you’re in the fashion industry, odds are you will be going to different events and meeting so many different people. This gives you such a great opportunity to network and gets your name out there. While it may be intimidating at first to talk to people you admire, having the courage to do so will get you far. No matter what industry you’re in, who you know gives you a huge stepping stone.

Have a Mentor/Someone to Speak Highly of You
If you are an assistant to someone, you are bound to develop a close relationship. This, mentorship or even friendship, is great for your career. You are able to learn from your boss and watch the things that are done to become successful. Building this relationship also helps when you decide you want to move on from your current position. You have someone who will speak highly of you and give you a great recommendation.

Feature image: Adobe Stock

By: Megan Renaud, Vancouver, @meganbrigette