This summer, my internship at Black Frame kept me extremely busy tracking fashion samples, collecting client coverage, using Fashion GPS and assisting at fashion shows. When I wasn't traipsing about Manhattan delivering a Kenzo bag here or picking up a Rodarte dress there, I filled my time by attending several networking events and mingling with other PR hopefuls and established professionals of the industry. While in New York City, where fashion professionals are everywhere and resources for learning and meeting new people are abundant, it was crucial to really capitalize on this opportunity. Welcome to my version of Networking 101.
A few basic tools you should always keep stocked in your networking tool belt are: high energy, several key messages you want to get across to whomever you're talking to, the ability to listen and of course, an absolute sense of professionalism.
1. High Energy
The managers at Black Frame were always looking for flexible and excited personalities from interns. One thing I learned in particular this summer was that the fashion industry thrives on HIGH ENERGY. No matter what the case may be that day at work: a client keeps repeating questions you've had to answer over and over, a co-worker's unpleasant habit is getting to you, you have to perform a mundane but necessary task that may not be your favorite, or maybe the FedEx guy didn't show up on time... all require one main thing and that is to STAY POSITIVE and KEEP GOING.
In other words, never let 'em see you sweat.
2. Key Messages
By now, we've all heard the term "elevator speech." Almost every PR professor I've had emphasizes the importance of having my own 30-second self-pitch prepared just in case I ever actually do step into an elevator with the employer of my dream job. Deliver any main points as naturally as possible. When this happens, it leaves room for follow up questions, which is always good. A few of my key messages that I never want to leave a conversation without saying are:
- I am a future fashion PR professional, graduating from university in December, looking to relocate from Michigan to Los Angeles, CA.
- I studied abroad and interned in London and interned in New York City; I have had a lot of positive global experience.
- My internships have given me a concrete understanding of what it's like to work at the entry-level of fashion PR and I am excited and eager to break in.
3. Listen
While it helps to get all of your key messages across swiftly and concisely, it also helps that people feel excited about the prospect of talking to you again. Don't dominate the conversation. People love talking about themselves, and by listening to what they have to say and remembering it the next time you see them again, your likability points go up.
4. Professionalism
It all comes down to how you present yourself. Getting back to basics, this means good posture, eye contact and always a smile. Nobody wants to talk to, especially hire, a person that doesn't know how to be a professional. If there is someone you don't particularly get along with in attendance at an event, be cordial. If there is alcohol served, be careful and drink casually or not at all. No matter what industry you're in, professionalism and sophistication go a long way.
At first it may seem overwhelming, but networking can be fun and beneficial. When done right, it can present opportunities that you wouldn't otherwise have if you had decided to just stay home that day. Networking forces you to put yourself out there and really come into your own. It builds confidence as well as relationships. When genuine conversation starts flowing and a rapport is built naturally, that's when you know you've made a great connection.
All photos taken on the evening of a networking event attended at the Starett-Leigh building in NYC.
