Do your research:
When considering an application to a fashion internship ensure that you know all there is to know about the company that you are considering applying to before you send your application. Learn all about their mastheads, their editorial voice and all successful past articles published if you care considering entering into their editorial department. If you are seeking entry into the PR department ensure that you are familiar with the company's clients and the aesthetics of the company. It is important that you are able to illustrate that you are their biggest fan and able to answer any and all queries about why you desire working at that particular company.
Start small:
The most desired internships are very competitive in nature and this means that you have to be able to compete with the best of the best in terms of applicants. You must have a lot of relevant experience before you aim for the bigger and more coveted internships. An example of this is before starting at Teen Vogue most interns will possess as many as three internships completed.
Good timing:
Timing is important and applications should be posted out before the month of March. The later they are submitted the more persons you will have to compete with. Aim for getting them to prospective employers by late January to mid February.
Resume / Cover letter:
Ensure that you trim your resume to exclude all irrelevant work experience. Leave out the fancy formatting and keep high school achievements to a minimum. You should be thorough when detailing tasks, responsibilities and commitments for jobs that you previously held. Your cover letter should be three paragraphs where you illustrate your suitability for the job. Avoid cliché phrases and do not be redundant and repeat information that can be found in your resume. Convert the document into a PDF file.
Interview skills:
Ensure that you are appropriately attired for an interview and study before the interview. Prepare answers to typical questions asked in interviews such as "Why do you want a job here?" and "Who are your favourite designers?" Make sure to walk with a portfolio of your work and if you do not have one get started. Do not be too pushy but exude confidence and enthusiasm.
Do not get fired:
Read through your contract thoroughly and ensure that you know all the confidentiality clauses. Make sure that your attitude is good and that you are not snobby or rude. Ask the appropriate questions and do not be afraid to ask for assistance. The more you do well the more responsibilities you will receive.
