The Official Internship Survival Guide

The fashion world is a place with many doors. Lucky for us in college, most of those doors begin to open when summer break starts. Stepping into the unknown and fuzzy abyss of corporate retail can be daunting at first- all the grey cubicles, the infinite rows of desktop computers. But after looking closer and actually experiencing the reality of this world, it is truly an inspiring place. One that never pauses for a moment and is constantly fluctuating, full of many different types of people- the analyzers the creators, the movers the shakers who are all so passionate about the essence of their brand that they themselves become it. Wishing that someone had eased my nerves of this beautiful and powerful industry before entering it, I am going to outline some tips that will ensure you as a success in this beautiful world that we call retail.

 

TIP #1: Cop a notebook that speaks to you.

Taking notes of EVERYTHING is key to being successful in your day-to-day tasks. Whatever you choose to take notes on will become your Bible. Make it an aesthetically pleasing Bible for your own sake- preferably one that can fuel the fire of your own inspiration.

TIP #2: Get close with the product before your first day.

As an intern, it is necessary for you to know the in's and out's of the product in your category. This knowledge will come the easy way (if you do your research before hand) or it will come to you slowly just from being surrounded by the product for so long. Why not get ahead of the game and learn this information sooner, so that your mind can be filled with more while you are at work and you can become more efficient?!

TIP #3: Decorate your desk.

Throughout any job, it is important to always stay inspired- this will reflect in the way you problem solve, create, and even treat others. This company has hired you to bring fresh, new ideas and methods to their company. In such a fast pace industry, there is not much time to inspire yourself by scrolling through Instagram or checking up on Tumblr/Pinterest at work. So to keep your mind alive, create your own personal inspiration board at your desk!

TIP #4: Get to know your fellow interns. 

Connections are everything. Keeping relationships with those who have experience and also those who are just entering the industry is crucial. Learn everything you can about everyone you meet and you yourself will benefit. Linkedin is an especially important tool in the networking process, so make sure that you link up with as many people that you were able to make an impact on during your experience!

TIP #5: Don't be afraid to speak up.

 Opinions are important and are typically the reasons for change. Make sure you are always confident in your beliefs and execute them with reasoning behind the opinion. It is important to keep a political diction when explaining your opinions to others so be mindful of this fact.

TIP #6:  Exercise before the work day begins.

A lot of sitting happens during the work day, it is important that you allow your blood to flow at some point! By working out in the mornings, your mind will be more stimulated than your peers who have not forced their bodies to exercise. This is also important because it will grow your appetite hopefully before you head to work, causing you to eat a hearty breakfast- since it is easy in this fast pace industry to have minimal time to eat during the day.

TIP#7:  It is okay to do nothing sometimes.

Throughout my internships I have felt the pressure to keep my social life moving at the same pace it moved when I wasn't working 40 hours per week. This is not realistic- and is rather crazy. Don't feel bad to go home and remain stationary once you have put in your day's work. If your body is craving rest, you will know- so don't fight it!