By Jessica Frost
@jessiaxfrost

If you’re just starting out in the fashion industry, you’re probably realising that the competition out there is stiff. And I guess you’ve probably already read the millions of advice articles telling you that you need to start a blog or become a social media sensation if you want a job. Well, they’re wrong.

Sure it’s important to do something to set yourself apart but it doesn’t have to be what everyone else is doing.

The problem is that there seems to be a formula that every insta famous blogger follows meaning that they all just end up looking the same.  Flat lay, outfit post, brunch, cocktail repeat. I mean really, how many times a week do you actually click the link in the bio and visit the blog rather than just their Instagram or snapchat? Contribute to the argument the fact that most of what we’re seeing is paid for content, it can be hard to see a genuine creative direction.

I myself have been told countless times I should start a blog. But every time I’ve gone to do it have stopped myself upon the realisation that there’s no way I’ll be able to maintain amazing content. I’m not invested in the whole idea of it.

Beyond anything else, a potential employer wants to see your genuine, authentic self. Sure a blog can be an impressive hobby to showcase on an application. If you have a unique, creative and relevant idea then go for it but it won’t do anything to help you if you’re really not that into it.

There are so many other ways to be proactive and prove your skills when starting out in the fashion industry. For models, it’s an obvious one. Show your versatility and range with different pictures on Instagram. Self-styled and directed shoots work well to show your ability to both take initiative and your determination to work. Better yet, create your own portfolio with the images to email and show to people instead of your Instagram handle. The same goes for budding photographers.

If you want to get into writing, my best piece of advice is to write something and submit it to a reputable publication. It may take a few tries to get a response but when you get one, it’ll be because someone who knows their shit sees potential in you. This person is also going to teach you more about getting into the industry then self-published and edited work ever could.

Social media is a great way to showcase who you are; it shouldn’t become what you are. If you’re really not into creating a blog, don’t feel bad every time a potential employer asks if you have one (because they will). Show them everything else you’ve done for yourself in your chosen career and let them be impressed by that.