As some of you might know, I’m a very driven and ambitious person – I believe that if you work hard, you can achieve anything you put your mind to. In that spirit, I thought to talk to you about internships; one of the best ways get hands on experience and get connected in the industry.

When telling people about my various internships, they often ask me how I go about it. I’m no expert, but I’ve written down a couple of tips that might be helpful for some of you.

THE SEARCHING PROCESS

♥ For fashion internships, I frequently visit Free Fashion Internships, Fashionista and Indeed. Other times, I go directly to the company website – there’s often an email address where you can send an open application. If not, LinkedIn is your best friend.

♥ One of the best ways to obtain an internship is through connections; let the people around that you are looking – you’ll definitely know someone who knows someone. (Remeber to have your business card ready)

♥After finding the internships you would like to apply for, research the respective companies and tailor your cover letter to the company. And whatever you do, do not mix them up; nothing is worse than sending how much you love Armani to Topshop or vice versa.

Photo from one of my first photoshoots as a stylist assistant.

THE INTERVIEW 

Over the years I’ve observed and attended my fair share of interviews and picked up some easy-t0-remember guidelines.

♥ Research the company – this way you can bring up things you have learned, and really wow them by adapting your answers to the company’s values.(Values that you hopefully agree with)

♥ Look sharp, but show personality – I  try to steer away from the white shirt, black bottom receptionst look, by replacing the shirt with a cute blouse and adding a pair of eye-catching shoes.

♥ Arrive early  – you would be surprised how many people come 5 minutes late. It’s never OK.

♥ Bring a hard copy of your resumé – More often the not, the interviewer has not had time to go through the details of your resumé before you meet up. Bringing your resumé shows that you are prepared and proactive.

♥ Last but not least, remember to relax. An interview is not life or death. If you end up getting declined, see the process as an experience, not defeat or waste of time.

 Xx Hanna