Into the Fashion Industry Career Podcast

Hosted by Maria Hedian: Fashion Educator, Mentor and Industry Connector

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Nov 2024

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About the show

The Into the Fashion Industry Career Podcast is dedicated to giving fashion professionals tools, information and resources you need in order to start or further your career. If you've ever wished you had a mentor to help you achieve all of your fashion career goals, this podcast is for you. With over 20 years of experience within the industry, your host, Maria Hedian - corporate fashion professional turned career mentor and fashion educator, teaches you everything you need to know in order to excel as a professional within the fashion industry. Learn actionable tips and strategies in weekly episodes that provide real-life guidance for career success. Discover how to craft a resume that gets noticed, ace your interviews, build a professional brand and navigate networking. Join us as we discuss all of your career questions and behind-the-scenes industry strategies and techniques. Every episode is designed to help you take immediate action that will take your fashion career to the next level. Don't wait to start listening - now is the time to gain the skills and confidence needed to get hired in this competitive industry. With The Into the Fashion Industry Career Podcast, you'll be able to navigate the the ins and outs of one of the world's most exclusive industries with confidence. Tune in each week to learn all there is to know and make your career goals a reality.

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November 19, 2024Episode 2419 min

What I Wish I Knew About Networking in Fashion: Top Fashion Networking Tips for Students and Aspiring Professionals

Ever wonder how fashion industry leaders actually built their networks? Spoiler: It wasn't through perfectly polished elevator pitches. In this tell-all episode, I'm sharing the networking mistakes, awkward moments and unexpected wins that transformed my fashion career - including how a failed fashion school application led to becoming an educator at that same institution.You'll discover:Why hiding in the corner at fashion networking events actually taught me a valuable lessonHow a chance conversation at a museum exhibit landed my student a dream fashion magazine internshipThe exact cold email strategy I used to break into fashion event production with zero experienceWhy an "extinct" social media app became my secret weapon for fashion industry connectionsWhether you're an introvert dreaming of a fashion career, a student looking for your first industry job, or a fashion professional ready to level up, this episode reveals the unfiltered truth about building genuine connections in fashion.Keywords: #FashionCareer #NetworkingTips #FashionIndustryJobs #FashionInternships #FashionNetworking #FashionMentor #CareerAdvice #FashionProfessional #EmergingDesigners #FashionBusiness[Perfect for: Fashion Design Students, Fashion Business Majors, Emerging Fashion Professionals, Fashion Entrepreneurs, Fashion Industry Career Changers]▼ LINKS & RESOURCES ▼EPISODE SHOW NOTES:https://mariahedian.com/fashion-networkingEPISODE MENTION:8 Game-Changing Strategies to Supercharge Your LinkedIn Profilehttps://www.mariahedian.com/linkedintipsandtricksTHE ITFI ROSTERSign up for our ITFI Roster here: https://www.mariahedian.com/roster-signupMake sure to fill out the form you receive in your email.If you don't, we can't add you to the roster!JOIN THE ITFI FACEBOOK COMMUNITY:https://mariahedian.com/itfi-groupITFI INSTAGRAM@intothefashionindustryITFI IS ON TIK TOK!@FashionCareerMentorLoved the episode? Have a question? Send me a text!

November 9, 2024Episode 2336 min

How to Land 2025 Fashion Internships: Insider Tips, Networking Strategies and Organization Tools for Success

Ready to land one of the top 2025 fashion internships? In today’s episode, we’re diving into everything you need to know to make your application shine, network authentically and stay organized from start to finish.Whether you’re on the hunt for internships through job boards, networking or school resources, I’ve got strategies to help you stand out. I’ll share my personal experience (yes, including a follow-up fail that taught me the importance of staying organized) and walk you through creating a solid system to track applications and follow-ups.We’ll also cover how to build genuine industry connections on platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram, plus tips for nailing that follow-up email - complete with subject line ideas and a strong call to action to stay top-of-mind.And even if you don’t have every skill listed on a job description, I’ll show you how to leverage your unique experiences to showcase your potential.Hit play to equip yourself with the tools, confidence and strategies you need to get closer to your dream role in fashion.▼ LINKS & RESOURCES ▼EPISODE SHOW NOTES:https://mariahedian.com/2025-internshipsEPISODE MENTION:How to Create an Online Portfolio and Why It’s Important for Your Fashion Careerhttps://www.mariahedian.com/onlineportfolioEPISODE MENTION:8 Game-Changing Strategies to Supercharge Your LinkedIn Profilehttps://www.mariahedian.com/linkedintipsandtricksFREE RESOURCE:40 Questions to Ask at Your Next Informational Interview Cheat Sheethttps://mariahedian.com/cheatsheetCAREER LAUNCH KIThttps://mariahedian.com/fashion-career-kitTHE EMAIL CONTACT DATABASEhttps://www.mariahedian.com/resource-suite RESUME REVIEW & REVISION PREMIUM SERVICEhttps://services.mariahedian.comTHE ITFI ROSTERhttps://www.mariahedian.com/roster-signupMake sure to fill out the form you receive in your email.If you don't, we can't add you to the roster!JOIN THE ITFI FACEBOOK COMMUNITY:https://mariahedian.com/itfi-groupITFI INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/intothefashionindustryITFI IS ON TIK TOK!Follow me @FashionCareerMentor to learn more actionable steps, professional strategies and a behind-the-scenes look at all things fashion industry.Loved the episode? Have a question? Send me a text!

October 30, 202429 min

Ultimate Guide to Fashion Job Fair Prep: Networking Tips and Resume Strategies

Welcome to the Into the Fashion Industry Career Podcast! In this episode, I provide you with essential strategies to maximize your experience at a fashion job fair.We start by discussing the importance of researching participating companies. Knowing who you want to connect with can set you apart. If you have a portfolio or lookbook, I emphasize its importance as a visual representation of your skills. Curate your work thoughtfully, focusing on quality over quantity.With many job fairs moving online, I share tips for effective virtual delivery. Learn how to maintain eye contact, engage your audience, and use notes without sounding scripted.After the fair, your job isn't done! We cover critical follow-up strategies, including sending personalized thank-you emails within 24 to 48 hours. Mention specific details from your conversations to reinforce your interest. We also discuss tracking your follow-ups to stay organized.This episode will help you feel confident the next time you attend a fashion job fair, giving you peace of mind and the chance to impress every single person you meet. Don’t forget to subscribe for more career tips, and if you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review!▼ LINKS & RESOURCES ▼EPISODE SHOW NOTES:https://www.mariahedian.com/career-fairEPISODE MENTION:How to Create an Online Portfolio and Why It’s Important for Your Fashion Careerhttps://www.mariahedian.com/onlineportfolioEPISODE MENTION:How to Write a Strong Fashion Resume That Shows Off Your Experience, Even If You’re Just Starting Outhttps://www.mariahedian.com/fashion-resumeCAREER LAUNCH KIThttps://mariahedian.com/fashion-career-kitTHE EMAIL CONTACT DATABASEhttps://www.mariahedian.com/resource-suiteRESUME REVIEW & REVISION PREMIUM SERVICEhttps://services.mariahedian.comTHE ITFI ROSTERSign up for our ITFI Roster here: https://www.mariahedian.com/roster-signupMake sure to fill out the form you receive in your email.If you don't, we can't add you to the roster!JOIN THE ITFI FACEBOOK COMMUNITY:https://mariahedian.com/itfi-groupITFI INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/intothefashionindustryITFI IS ON TIK TOK!Follow me @FashionCareerMentor to learn more actionable steps, professional strategies and a behind-the-scenes look at all things fashion industry!Loved the episode? Have a question? Send me a text!

April 13, 2024Episode 2115 min

What is a Unique Value Proposition and How Can It Help You Stand Out in a Fashion Job Interview?

As an experienced fashion educator, I've mentored countless young professionals who felt frustrated and discouraged trying to land their dream fashion job. The secret? Identifying and communicating your Unique Value Proposition.In this episode, I share the story of one of my former students and how uncovering her distinct background and experiences transformed her job search. You'll learn a step-by-step framework for reflecting on your proudest accomplishments, soliciting honest feedback and leveraging your natural strengths.Gain the confidence and tools to make your unique voice heard and set yourself apart from the competition. This is your key to unlocking incredible opportunities in the fashion industry. You'll walk away from this episode with a clear, step-by-step process for developing your own Unique Value Proposition. So get ready to reflect, refine and OWN what makes you uniquely qualified. This is your chance to take your fashion career to the next level.▼ LINKS & RESOURCES ▼EPISODE SHOW NOTES:https://www.mariahedian.com/uvpMYERS-BRIGGS TYPE INDICATOR TESThttps://www.mbtionline.com/en-US/How-it-works/OverviewSTRENGTHSFINDER QUIZhttps://www.gyfted.me/personality-quiz/strengthsfinder-test-freeCUSTOM RESUME REVIEW SERVICELet's work together to create a powerful resume that gets you interviews.Open to new and returning customers!https://mariahedian.com/career-servicesTHE ITFI ROSTERSign up for our ITFI Roster here: https://www.mariahedian.com/roster-signupMake sure to fill out the form you receive in your email.If you don't, we can't add you to the roster!JOIN THE ITFI FACEBOOK COMMUNITY:https://mariahedian.com/itfi-groupITFI INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/intothefashionindustryITFI IS ON TIK TOK!Follow me @FashionCareerMentor to learn more actionable steps, professional strategies and a behind-the-scenes look at all things fashion industry!Loved the episode? Have a question? Send me a text!

October 20, 2023Episode 2026 min

The Art of Cold Outreach: How to Build Valuable Connections to Advance Your Fashion Career

Struggling to expand your professional network beyond immediate connections?Cold outreach is the secret weapon that can transform your fashion career. This episode tackles the art of reaching out to industry professionals you’ve never met before to build relationships.Learn how to identify and research potential mentors, collaborators, and opportunities. Discover tips for crafting personalized, compelling outreach messages to stand out. Gain insight into professional email structure and follow-up strategies to secure responses. Whether you’re looking to land jobs or gain insider intel, effective cold outreach unlocks doors.This episode breaks down the strategic process into actionable steps so you can approach cold outreach with confidence. Expand your network through thoughtful relationship-building outreach.Tune in and let me know how your cold outreach efforts start to change after listening to this episode!▼ LINKS & RESOURCES ▼EPISODE SHOW NOTES:https://mariahedian.com/coldoutreachEPISODE MENTION:Networking Strategies for Recent Grads: How to Use Your Network to Reach Your Career Goalshttps://mariahedian.com/careergoalsCUSTOM RESUME REVIEW SERVICELet's work together to create a powerful resume that gets you interviews!https://mariahedian.com/career-servicesTHE ITFI ROSTERSign up for our ITFI Roster here: https://mariahedian.com/roster-signupMake sure to fill out the form you receive in your email.If you don't, we can't add you to the roster!JOIN THE ITFI FACEBOOK COMMUNITY:https://mariahedian.com/itfi-groupITFI INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/intothefashionindustryITFI IS ON TIK TOK!Follow me @FashionCareerMentor to learn more actionable steps, professional strategies and a behind-the-scenes look at all things fashion industry!Loved the episode? Have a question? Send me a text!

October 5, 2023Episode 1917 min

Networking Strategies for Recent Grads: How to Use Your Network to Reach Your Career Goals

Struggling to launch your fashion career after graduation? Learn proven networking strategies to grow your professional community and reach your career goals. This episode covers why networking is critical for recent grads, how to overcome hesitation, tips for informational interviews, identifying the 5 types of connections for fashion industry success, challenging yourself to attend monthly networking events, actively listening and following up after meetings, leveraging your passion as a newcomer, and more. If you’re a recent fashion school graduate or industry entrant looking to fast-track your success through strategic relationship building, this episode is for you.Key Show Notes:Why networking is especially critical for recent fashion school graduates [2:30]How to visualize your career goals and relevant connections [5:15]The 5 types of connections that can advance your fashion career [7:30]Tips for attending networking events regularly [9:45]What informational interviews are and how to maximize them [12:30]Our 3 step framework for informational meetings: Listen, Ask, Follow Up [14:00]Valuable advice for industry newcomers [21:15]▼ LINKS & RESOURCES ▼EPISODE SHOW NOTES:https://www.mariahedian.com/careergoalsFREE FASHION INDUSTRY 5 TYPES OF CONNECTIONS GUIDEhttps://mariahedian.com/connectionsEPISODE MENTION:3 Strategies to Help You Set Goals for a Successful Fashion Career Path in 2023https://www.mariahedian.com/smartgoalsCUSTOM RESUME REVIEW SERVICELet's work together to create a powerful resume that gets you interviews!https://mariahedian.com/career-servicesTHE ITFI ROSTERSign up for our ITFI Roster here: https://www.mariahedian.com/roster-signupMake sure to fill out the form you receive in your email.If you don't, we can't add you to the roster!JOIN THE ITFI FACEBOOK COMMUNITY:https://mariahedian.com/itfi-groupITFI INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/intothefashionindustryITFI IS ON TIK TOK!Follow me @FashionCareerMentor to learn more actionable steps, professional strategies and a behind-the-scenes look at all things fashion industry!Loved the episode? Have a question? Send me a text!

June 9, 2023Episode 1821 min

How to Write a Strong Fashion Resume That Shows Off Your Experience, Even If You’re Just Starting Out

In this episode, we continue talking about game-changing strategies to elevate your fashion resume and make it irresistible to hiring managers.Using the information you gathered from the last episode, we explore the impact of using specific action verbs. By using dynamic verbs you can showcase your go-getter attitude and vividly portray your achievements and responsibilities. These verbs add excitement and make your resume memorable.Next, we discuss the power of industry-specific terminology. Infusing your resume with these terms shows your dedication and fluency in the fashion industry's unique language.Lastly, we emphasize the importance of showcasing measurable metrics and results. By highlighting and assigning quantifiable impact to your experience, you provide concrete evidence of your accomplishments and demonstrate your ability to deliver tangible results.As an added bonus, I created an in-depth guide to go along with both episodes and help you create a powerful resume. The guide includes an action word bank, examples of metrics to use to measure success and industry-specific terms. The link to download this guide is below. ▼ LINKS & RESOURCES ▼EPISODE SHOW NOTES:https://www.mariahedian.com/fashion-resumeFREE RESUME WRITING GUIDEhttps://mariahedian.com/write-your-resumeEPISODE MENTION:How to Identify the Most Important Aspects of Your Fashion Internshiphttps://mariahedian.com/fashion-internship/CUSTOM RESUME REVIEW SERVICELet's work together to create a powerful resume that gets you interviews!https://mariahedian.com/career-servicesTHE ITFI ROSTERSign up for our ITFI Roster here: https://www.mariahedian.com/roster-signupMake sure to fill out the form you receive in your email.If you don't, we can't add you to the roster!JOIN THE ITFI FACEBOOK COMMUNITY:https://mariahedian.com/itfi-groupITFI INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/intothefashionindustryITFI IS ON TIK TOK!Follow me @FashionCareerMentor to learn more actionable steps, professional strategies and a behind-the-scenes look at all things fashion industry!Loved the episode? Have a question? Send me a text!

May 25, 2023Episode 1718 min

How to Identify the Most Important Aspects of Your Fashion Internship to Make Your Resume Shine

If you're wondering how to effectively highlight your internship experiences on your fashion resume, this episode has got you covered. It includes four guidelines for doing so, including reflecting on the experience, quantifying achievements, highlighting notable collaborations and identifying positive outcomes. It also emphasizes the importance of highlighting relevant skills, identifying specific projects and responsibilities and customizing your fashion resume to prioritize the skills that are most relevant to the specific job that you're applying for. It's all about tailoring your resume to the job you want! Creating a high-level resume is just the first step towards getting any job you set your mind to. Note: This episode is part 1 of a 2-part series on how to identify your fashion internship experiences and translate them to create a high-level resume that stands out among the competition.▼ LINKS & RESOURCES ▼EPISODE SHOW NOTES:https://www.mariahedian.com/fashion-internshipEPISODE MENTION:3 Things You Must Do to Stand Out as a Fashion Intern https://www.mariahedian.com/fashion-internshipCUSTOM RESUME REVIEW SERVICELet's work together to create a powerful resume that gets you interviews!https://mariahedian.com/career-servicesTHE ITFI ROSTERSign up for our ITFI Roster here: https://www.mariahedian.com/roster-signupMake sure to fill out the form you receive in your email.If you don't, we can't add you to the roster!JOIN THE ITFI FACEBOOK COMMUNITY:https://mariahedian.com/itfi-groupITFI INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/intothefashionindustryITFI IS ON TIK TOK!Follow me @FashionCareerMentor to learn more actionable steps, professional strategies and a behind-the-scenes look at all things fashion industry!Loved the episode? Have a question? Send me a text!

March 30, 2023Episode 1627 min

4 Key Lessons to Manage Stress & Avoid Burnout From a Fashion Week Show Producer

In this episode, I'm getting more personal than ever before as I talk about the incredible amount of personal and professional stress I was under during Fashion Week this past season that eventually led to my burnout and the lessons learned from the entire experience. You'll gain invaluable insights into the importance of taking care of yourself, even when life gets stressful and how it can make all the difference in your overall well-being. I'll also talk about the significance of finding your voice in the workplace, and how setting boundaries can help you achieve your goals without sacrificing your mental or physical health. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in your career, this episode is packed with practical tips and strategies to help you thrive and succeed. Tune in now and learn how to achieve the balance you need to lead a healthy, fulfilling career.▼ LINKS & RESOURCES ▼EPISODE SHOW NOTES:https://www.mariahedian.com/stressTHE ITFI ROSTERSign up for our ITFI Roster here: https://www.mariahedian.com/roster-signupMake sure to fill out the form you receive in your email.If you don't, we can't add you to the roster!JOIN THE ITFI COMMUNITY:https://mariahedian.com/itfi-groupITFI INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/intothefashionindustryITFI IS ON TIK TOK!Follow me @FashionCareerMentor to learn more actionable steps, professional strategies and a behind-the-scenes look at all things fashion industry!Loved the episode? Have a question? Send me a text!

February 7, 2023Episode 1518 min

5 Strategies to Help You Create Your Personal Cold Email List to Grow Your Network

Cold emailing is a powerful way to start conversations that give you the opportunity to make new connections. They’re especially effective when you’re trying to find internships or volunteer opportunities or if you’re a freelancer who’s looking to connect with new companies and be added to their roster.The goal of these emails is to get the person receiving them to agree to an informational interview or meeting where you can take a few minutes to learn more about their company and experience while also becoming a known contact to them. It’s an easy way to get exposure to new people, grow your network and even learn about possible opportunities within the company.In this episode, I help you break down the specific strategies to help you create your personal cold email list that will not only help you grow your network, but may also help you get the job.▼ LINKS & RESOURCES ▼EPISODE SHOW NOTES:https://www.mariahedian.com/cold-email-list8 LINKEDIN HACKS THAT WILL CHANGE YOUR CAREEREpisode 12 - ITFI Career Blog to learn insider tips and tricks to level up your profile and positively affect your fashion career in 2023THE 3-STEP PROCESS TO IDENTIFY YOUR IDEAL COMPANY FOR JOBS TO APPLY TOhttps://mariahedian.com/idealcompanyTHE IDEAL COMPANY PROFILE CHECKLISTGrab your own copy here to help you follow the steps in this episode!https://www.mariahedian.com/idealcompanychecklist8 GAME-CHANGING LINKEDIN TIPS & TRICKS to FURTHER YOUR FASHION CAREERhttps://www.mariahedian.com/linkedintipsandtricksTHE ITFI ROSTERSign up for our ITFI Roster here: https://www.mariahedian.com/roster-signupMake sure to fill out the form you receive in your email.If you don't, we can't add you to the roster!JOIN THE ITFI COMMUNITY:https://mariahedian.com/itfi-groupITFI INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/intothefashionindustryITFI IS ON TIK TOK!Follow me @FashionCareerMentor to learn more actionable steps, professional strategies and a behind-the-scenes look at all things fashion industry!Loved the episode? Have a question? Send me a text!