Why I <3 Fashion PR

When I first realized my passion for fashion public relations everything in my life just seemed to click. Years before I discovered my passion I studied design and construction at a private school in Manhattan. I have always been drawn to fashion...it's in my blood.

Many people ask me if getting a degree in fashion design was worth it if I was going to become a publicist. Yes. Understanding the theory, assembly, and labor that goes into creating a collection gives me the ability to translate unspoken words about fashion through my writing. Nothing became more exciting then writing about fashion and telling people how amazing it is beyond the runways and glamour. I began to see the beauty in expressing a designer's vision behind his/her collection. Being a designer myself the expression came naturally, my journalism courses put my words into a PR perspective.

As in search for my first PR position I am constantly reminded of my hunger for this industry. My need to be the voice behind a brand that I have personally fallen in love with. My dream job would be a position that would allow me to do just that. Failing has never been an option and it won't be...ever! I'm pushing forward because having a career in fashion PR is one of my goals.

It's my dream...it will happen.

Best,
Joi-Louise

Fashion Week Fall 2013!

Being an intern pro, fashion week is a bit of a stranger. I have always chosen to stay in the office in order to learn more about my craft and what I need to accomplish in order to bare the name "Coordinator". But as we are smack in the middle of a chaotic fashion week reflect on what the steps are leading up to a four minute fashion show.

Walking around the office during a time like this is an interesting feat. Interns scramble to get Lookbooks printed and get coffee for employees who remain chained to their desks. I try to remain focused on the prize, which is building my skills while balancing the "grunt work"

Fashion week amplifies the stress of the PR world but I only see the finish line.

Photo credit: Vera Wang Fall 2013

The PR Portfolio

For a PR newbie this is just as important as a social security card or a passport. Employers will see your abilities and view you as an asset if they are able to actually see what you can do.

Your portfolio begins with your résumé. It introduces you to the reader and highlights the skills that qualify you for the job. Make sure it is targeted to the industry you intend to work in (no sales experience on a PR resume). Make it one page and utilize your chance to sell your personal brand to the investor (employer).

Next, add in a few writing samples. Show that you know and understand press releases. Present at least three examples.
If you have a blog, twitter, Instagram,
Express your appreciation for the direction of the industry. Social media is now a huge part of public relations. Take screen shots of your professional social media presence.

Then, display any freelance work you have done. Development of social channels for local businesses, signage, press kits and PR plans will all be impressive to employers looking for someone to dive into a new position.

Finally include a thank you note addressing the employer for taking their time to review your portfolio.

Dealing with Arrogant Interns at Your Internship

So we have all come across the attitudes that come along with working in the world of fashion. It's something you can either accept and deal with or fall apart and be devastated about. I choose not to stress the small stuff, especially when I have grad school and freelance PR deadlines.

It's natural to feel the need to go off in the face of pure arrogance but remember your purpose of being an intern, your there to receive academic credit, and/or a job. Having a blow up in the showroom while on duty at your internship over some he said she said nonsense just isn't worth it.
This is all part of your training, knowing how to input, return, and ship out samples is part of it, but knowing how to separate business from personal is golden.

Some people are not warm and nurturing, they may never say please or thank you. Maintain the joy you experience by working in fashion public relations because it will be what keeps you from climbing the walls.

What to Do When Your Contacts Can't Find You A Job!

I've come to a roadblock in my quest for Fashion PR employment. Though I have made many connections it seems that my network of professionals just cannot help me find work. At this point (8 months post grad) it may just be entirely up to me to break my way into the industry.

As per advice given by my career mentor,
I have made contact with a few more recruiter agencies here in NYC. Though it is difficult to think of actually putting your job search in someone else's hands it may just do the trick. Many reputable PR firms and fashion houses use agency recruiters to find the best candidates around.

So as I continue to look on my own I am being represented by an agent who knows my career path, where I have been and how I intend to get there. When you network of contacts seem unable to lend a helping hand consider a recruiting agency.

Interning at an Agency

It's no secret that agency operations are different from that of working in-house PR. In most cases an agency intern is just that...an intern. The office segregation is comical. Interns often inflict it upon themselves by sitting at different tables in the lunchroom. But the scariest part would have to be the separation of simple amenities like bathrooms, which is often enforced by staff and owners of the firm. Agency PR interns seem to be the black sheep of the office. It actually made me laugh when I realized what the too secret agent locks on the kitchen cabinet doors were for ( to keep interns out).

The next 4 months should be interesting and I am so down for the ride. It's important for me to experience all that the world of fashion PR has to offer. Each day is more and more interesting, and getting used to an agency culture has not been easy.

The Power of Networking

I didn't grow up a social butterfly that loved to be the center of attention or had the natural gift of gab. When I was a sophomore in college I realized what I wanted to do with my life and fashion just had to be a part of my career.

If you want to be a fashion PR it's very important to know and understand networking. First, ask yourself "What is networking?" You know that awkward feeling being the new kid at school in the cafeteria at lunchtime? Either you decided to remain a wall flower or you made the choice to spark up a conversation. That is exactly what networking is. Finding the courage to start a conversation whether its in person or through social media. No one will know who you are or your intent if you do not make it known.

My experience with networking has brought me to some amazing places. First, it gave me a voice. Which at one time I never had. Speaking to people about the service at the local Starbucks becomes easier when you realize you have much in common with the person on line behind you.

Networking got me my chance at a career I enjoy and love. It will do the same for you. Speak up!

New Year. New Silk to Adorn.

So here we are in a brand new year. The resolutions are strong and the gym memberships are on fire!

I'm pushing forward on the journey to begin my passion. A career that allows me to be involved in fashion and PR. As I'm writing this post I think about how far I've come since my high school graduation.

Accomplishments seem to line up as I recount my past years in college. Yet, being the perfectionist I am, I still have so much more to do. In 2013 I hope to accomplish professional growth and more hands on practical experience.

As I move forward with a new internship I tell myself my dream is a whisper away. I crave to release my creativity which stems from the designer in me, I want to be involved in the making of incredible things. Nothing brings me more joy...it's like being wrapped in silk.

You didn't get the job.

Well. You didn't get the job. You weren't sent a rejection letter nor were you denied on the spot. You just have not heard from the interviewer in two weeks after being told you would hear a decision by end if the week (the interview was on a Monday).

Of coarse you were on fire about the position but after careful consideration you have come to the conclusion that maybe this company wasn't the place for you. You are destined for something greater.

The next step when dealing with job rejection is to simply pick yourself up and moving forward. Something greater is waiting for you. Persistence is key. As the new year comes around remember that your dreams are moments from coming true. Never sell yourself short!

My First PR/Social Media Job Interview

On Monday Dec 17, 2012 I went into my first interview for a full time paid position. I was more excited and anxious than nervous. I arrived early. Not because I was trying to brown nose but because I was genuinely happy to be there. I got a glimpse of another job hunter interviewing for the same position and realized the competition was real. I found the lion within and decided this job would be mine. I was hungry...hungry for success and happiness within my work environment. PR does this for me. In the interview the VP received me with a sturdy hand shake and a smile. We discussed the brands direction as pertaining to social media and what exactly I would be doing should I come on board. I explained my experience in Pr and social media and why I was the person for the job. I left feeling great like I'd already received the job. I was told I would be contacted with a decision by the end of the week. The VP thanked me for coming in as she walked me out the door.

Interviewing for a PR Internship

Dec 7, 2012-- On my way to an interview for a PR intern position in the big Apple. Surprisingly I am more anxious than nervous. It shocks people when they hear I'm looking for another internship right after finishing one. But my hunger to work in this industry is more than enough to make me over look my pride and focus on the dream.

Today my attire is serious but not boring. I didn't throw on a basic suit in order to appear serious but I chose a look that would showcase my personal style and ability to be taken seriously not only by a future employer but the ability to show clients that I am the one for the job. I am confident that my résumé is more than enough to lock this position down so it is up to me to sell the interviewer on my personal brand.

Although this is just an internship I treat it as if it were a job interview. Meaning showing up early, putting on a smile and letting the interviewer into my world and perception of the industry I aspire to be a part of. It's so important to showcase your ability to sell (yourself) when interviewing especially for positions that require you to pitch and sell ideas to perspective clients.
This time around I'm going to be a part of a PR agency as opposed to an in-house PR team and I believe this experience is needed to make my brand desirable. Notice how I've already claimed the internship without knowing whether or not it's mine. This is all a part of branding and making sure your future employer knows your intentions and confidence in your abilities to deliver.

Be genuine and let them know your ready to go all out and be the very best at everything you do whether its packing boxes or pulling samples for a shoot. Have a positive attitude from day one because you don't get a second chance to make a first impression.

Stay Connected Until Something Happens

As I finished my first semester of my MBA program and my time at Gucci ended I wondered what I would do next being that I hadn't received ONE job offer. I worried about paying school loans, putting gas in the car, and buying groceries. Stress didn't begin to explain what I was feeling.

Does it hurt to stop interning while looking for a job in fashion PR? I asked the advice of PR pro __________ who told me the best advice she could give me was "keep on interning and gaining your experience the job WILL come!" I thought "I can't do that, I have to get a real job" although I am working two jobs to stay above water I hate the idea of maybe having to do this for even another week. I've thought over and over and over about what my choice would be and I chosen future. I know it won't be easy and I will have to sacrifice many things but the real prize will come with a career that will allow me to grow personally and professionally.

Being that I am single (not married) and do not have children this is something that I can do. If your responsibilities make it a bit more difficult for you seek the help of your friends and family. Explain your intensions and be clear about your desires to be a better you. I vow to chase my dreams at all costs. Even if it means working for free. It is so important to make sure your expletive is fresh and valid in the eyes of future employers.

Working My First Sample Sale

I was stationed in the Lobby of the tower in order to mandate the guest list of fashion gods, also known as Editors. As they lined up for the 9:30 sale I thought to myself "This is some crucial semi-networking time". I made it a point to introduce myself where appropriate provide a swift transition from checking in to hitting the sales floor of the sample sale.

Being an intern your not at the top of the priority list but eloquence and organization will often get you noticed. Being in charge of "the list" gave me the power to see who these editors were face to face. I engaged them with small talk about the weather and jokes about the rush that comes with some sample sales. Like the fights that were created for films like 'Confessions of a Shopoholic". I was doing it! And without even trying...I made them smile and a few even laughed and took the time to wish me look with my endeavors as they left the building. To think that I was once a shy girl.

A great quality to have as an intern is pride. Now I don't mean the kind of pride that causes you to be a complete jerk but the kind that is noticed in everything you do around the office. It's seen in the precision that you possess when sending out samples or calling the messenger center to check on a package. Have pride in your work and you'll begin to see the trust that your supervisors develop in your abilities. Some might say that being the door woman at a sample sale isn't a glamorous role. I would have to say that if your going into PR for the glamour...maybe you should choose another career.

My time interning has always been hard work and justly so. You have to put in your time and realize that everyone over you has once been where you are now and no one can respect someone who hasn't paid their dues. From the moment I entered the doors of my last internship I have enjoyed every moment. From the mistakes to this sample sale. Today was a good day! Remember that your dreams are attainable if your willing to get your hands dirty.

My Time at GUCCI

In September of 2012 I began a PR internship at Gucci in Manhattan. As I send out my last Gucci samples I wonder what great things I will move on to next.

Today is my last day as I ride on the train to the corporate office for what will be my last time as an intern I reflect on the enter experience. Some would say that days here were boring. I'd say you didn't look for things to do. Some would say they didn't like the atmosphere. I say you had too much time to care or notice. My main focusing walking through those doors was to become a sponge at every given moment. Ask questions you don't know the answers to and know that it's ok to mess up as long as your willing to keep working on being a better you. The PR team at Gucci is comprised of hardworking people from various backgrounds and places in life that know and understand the hard work that comes along with being a PR Girl/Guy. I was never made to think the job was easy but always felt that it was rewarding when I saw the delight each employee displayed when discovering a credit in a major magazine. It was all exciting to me.

I began to envision myself as a part of this team. When Hurricane Sandy hit all I could think about was how much I wanted to get back to work. To be back in the showroom being productive and not feeling like what I do for a living doesn't have purpose. I began to build relationships with everyone that include. The receptionist was a cool laid back New Yorker at heart that gave me some great advice on finding work in this crazy competitive environment. The guys from the mail room understood my position on employment and constantly handed me information on how to better my chances of finding work. The gentleman in the Lobby was just as ambitious as I am and he made it a point to tell me to never let go of my dreams because they will be what contributes to a combination of happiness and financial stability.

My time at Gucci will always be remembered as the doorway to my future happiness. I don't regret a moment of time in that PR department. It gave me "life".

The Pros and Cons of Interning In - House

So you got an internship in the PR department of a major fashion label. What does this mean experience wise?

In house PR focuses on one brand. While at Gucci the team I worked with focused on all Gucci divisions from menswear,womenswear, and jewelry. The pros are being able to focus on pitching on brand to the press at a time, planning for one brand and be able to put all of your creativity towards that brand. I also hear that in-house salaries are higher though I wouldn't know personally.

All events will be focused on the brand your working for whether it be fashion shows or charity events. You'd meet with the same people and would be relatively close to them because they just may working down the hall or in the cubicle next to you.

The cons of working for an in-house agency are the lack of diversity in your skills and performance. At a PR agency which caters to a variety of brands your abilities are tested and put to use. Receiving a call from glamour requesting dark wash denim for a grunge James Dean inspired shoot and a request from Vogue for Bridal can come in all at once when working at an agency. I find this to be much more exciting and due to high product volume interns are often allowed to pull from samples closets themselves which is all that a true aspiring PR wants, to be hands on! To open up the pages of Vogue and see a Vera Wang gown that you pulled is breathtaking.

Interning and gaining real world fashion PR experience is important in any form. But it is valuable to have experience in both divisions. Send out your emails and put yourself out there. Your dreams are waiting to come true!

Finding a job in New York Public Relations in the Year 2012-2013

Difficult would be an understatement. I have been searching for a job in PR for the past six months. Asking for advice and interning in the process. My desire to be a part of this industry is what keeps me off the ledge. But what are the guidelines to achieving this goal (if any) and how do i follow them in such a competitive environment  inflamed by the recession?

I am a recent college graduate majored in Business Marketing with a second degree in Fashion Design. Yes. I have submerged myself in the world of fashion. However, on this journey I've come across what seems to be nothing but road blocks and a never ending stream of politically correct rejection letters and promises to "keep you on record, should another position open up". At times this was disheartening but what I try to keep in mind is the euphoric vibes I experience every time I enter a showroom or open the pages of a magazine to see an editorial spread that I was a part of creating. That's it! That feeling is all too real. Something I could never see myself trading for a boring life of folding sweaters at the local mall.

But is it enough to get you the job? This is my burning question. I've been able to obtain some of the top in demand internships in the country but have yet to turn those into jobs. Some blame it on the market. I just think its about strategically planning around the loop holes of this industry.

Being in school is what gets you to the internship and maybe even the interview but it often doesn't get you the job. I've found that real world (industry) experience yields returns on interviews that turn into job offers. Experience also gives you room to network and this is equally as important as interning. Speaking to any and everyone has given me so much insight on the industry and contacts to people who could possible help me obtain my first job in fashion PR.

So what is this purpose of this blog Joi?

Even though you may be frustrated with your job hunt regardless of the industry. Determination and persistence will yield returns. I have created this particular article as the beginning of a documentation of my journey through my career in fashion PR. Come along for the ride!