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HERE'S LOOKING AT 2010 So what has 2010 got in store in the fashion job market? Last year was one of the quietest years in employment that I have experienced in my 15 years in the fashion job arena. But fashionista’s, 2010 is already showing signs of steady improvement. At the end of 2009 key fashion industry retailers and manufacturers indicated that there was an increase in market confidence, with sales exceeding expectation. In turn, this has given manufacturers more confidence and therefore more jobs all round. Key areas that are in demand right now include buying, merchandising planning, design and sales, both wholesale and retail. So how should you tackle your approach to a new year of fashion opportunities: 1. Look for a job while you are employed Yes this is my golden rule. Use the fact that you are working to negotiate a new job. You are more likely to be successful! Yes you are! The other advantage to being in a job while looking for a job, is that you are more likely to make a decision based on something that you really want rather than taking the stop gap approach. 2. Be more confident about making a move 2010 is bringing predictions of growth and we are already seeing signs of this. The predicted 5.8% unemployment in December has turned out to be 5.5% and retail sales are better than expected. So, it's a good time to move. It's also great because more opportunities are available with increased confidence in the market. 3. Ask questions about expansion plans and growth Seriously important! You need to know that you are going into something that has a great future. Whilst expansion isn't appropriate for all companies it is important to know that the company wants to grow, even if it's just margin growth or sales. 4. Ask about the companies downturn experience - Did they make redundancies? How many people do they intend to employ now? The barometer of what you can expect in the future is how a company was prepared for the downturn. Don't pass judgment based purely on this, however a company that has a trend of employing and then retrenching could be a company that may jeopardize your future. Make sure you are satisfied that you are going into something secure, if that is important to you. Whatever you do, just know that opportunities are out there right now, so don't be afraid to explore them. Natasha X
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