Here is a video with some very truthful tips on what is really takes to make it in the PR and fashion world. Featuring Stefanie Skinner of People’s Revolutions – Kelly Cutrone’s PR, branding and marketing firm – and Andrew Mukamai a stylist and consultant. It may not be what you want to hear, but they are spot on in terms of tried-and-tested experiences that secured them both sought-after jobs. Nothing worth doing comes easily so don’t be afraid of a little hard work. And remember if you apply yourself and show you are dedicated, you will be rewarded.

Watch the video here:

IMPORTANT TIPS TO REMEMBER

Nothing will be handed to you on a plate
Although it’s a lovely idea, it is a fairytale way of thinking to expect that things will just happen. Sometimes in life we are lucky enough that good things come to us with a minimal amount of effort required. But this is rare. The best way to approach things is to go out and seek – contacts, knowledge and experiences. If you put on your “explorer” hat you will be amazed at what you can learn and find.

Expect the unexpected
Just like in life, at work – be it work experience, an internship or a casual job – no two days are the same. Expect to learn new things all the time and be open to changing your opinion on many things. If you are open minded you are more likely to adjust to things better, exemplify maturity and to tackle anything thrown at your effectively.

The little tasks are important
Believe it or not, a lot of work goes into almost everything in life. From 50 people reading one paragraph on a magazine page before it goes to print, to a fashion intern returning 200 parcels of mail from a four-page spread fashion shoot – there are hundreds of tasks and people that play a crucial role in the end product. Have respect for each one of these tasks. Each one will teach you something, whether that may be becoming great a sending mail or knowing postcodes of by heart, down to learning patience, respect and determination.

Work hard, be dedicated and it will be noticed
Dedicating yourself to something and seeing it through, from the start to finish, with as much gusto in your step as you can muster will not go unnoticed. Work hard on the little things, even if that is getting the coffee or returning a package, and when your dedication and efficiency is noticed you will be rewarded – usually with more responsibility and eventually a job offer.

It’s all about real experience
Formal training is great, essential even in some cases, but it is not the be-all and end-all. You NEED to have real experience in the industries/areas you are interested in working in. Being able to adapt in different environments is something that comes by exposing yourself to a range of experiences. Go out and seek experience. It is this experience that will ultimately help you adjust better to the professional world. And it can be a big adjustment, so do yourself a favour and expose yourself to it as early as you can so there are no big surprises once you get your first real job.