C O M M U N I C A T I O N.
I remember my first internship in fashion at age 16. Assistant Designer/Merchandiser at Chanakya, Intl. Embroidery Export House in Mumbai, India. Boy, did I learn so much about the role of communication in the workplace.
At Chanakya, I was given the opportunity and challenge of communicating with multiple stakeholders within the industry. Not only was I in constant contact with the embroidery directors of Roberto Cavalli, I had to report progress of each embroidery swatch issued by the Italian luxury brand to my supervisor at Chanakya. Upon receiving each embroidery request from Cavalli, I communicated with the CAD department to create a preliminary design. I would then revert back to Cavalli to see if they required any changes in the design. After design was approved, I took the CAD to Chanakya’s embroidery factories and explained the embroiderers around what kinds of beads, threads, and materials were to be used for the embroideries. As each embroidery was progressing, I constantly took WIP images to send to Cavalli for confirmation and comments, until perfect final swatch was sent out to Roberto Cavalli.
Seeing such a multi-faceted process through required a great deal of patience and clear communication on my part, and I now look back and realize that it is
communication that will be the most valuable asset you can bring to the table as an intern in the fashion industry.
Do not be afraid to ask, clarify, or even add your input. Ever. I can guarantee you that you will be talking to so many different people in so many different positions, no matter what department in fashion you are working under. It’s just one of those industries that really is all about the connections–not just in the outside world but within your company as well. Maintaining good working relationships is a huge part of fashion. In all that you do, remember that you can only add value if your voice is heard! Don’t be afraid to learn from your co-workers and bosses, but you must also provide them some value too–communicate your thoughts and contribute your unique skills as best as you can! With that said, I wish all of you best of luck as you get into your summer 2018 fashion internships 🙂
