Getting a job as a fashion buyer can be challenging as it's a competitive field. I offer a downloadable guide and one to one coaching to help advise those interested in getting into this area of the retail industry.
How to get a job as a fashion buyer
Getting into fashion buying is extremely competitive as it appeals to those looking for the excitement of the fashion industry and the opportunity to travel. I'm passionate about helping others get in to buying as it was a dream come true for me to begin my journey in buying and I enjoy passing this on to others!
As part of my role as a buyer I've managed and developed teams of budding buyers through the levels of progression in the industry. It's always been one of the most rewarding parts of my role and one I've continued to pursue as a buying consultant.
MY GUIDE TO GETTING A JOB AS A FASHION BUYER
Following your dreams and getting a job in buying will be one of the best things you ever do. As a fashion buyer myself, I’ve had the time of my life working in an exciting job in fashion, travelling the world and being creative.
I’ve worked in the industry for over fifteen years, at the biggest brands on the high street and I often help and mentor others to get them into the industry. The experience, skills and qualities I’ve developed and the knowledge I’ve gained have helped to form this guide.
It’s based on my experience in the industry, as both the interviewer and the candidate. As well as walking you through the process, step by step, I also give you countless tips and insider information. I will tell you about the questions that will come up, what I’m looking for as an interviewer and how to stand out from others.
Being a fashion buyer is a fabulous career but it’s also hard to get your foot in the door. If you’re thinking of getting into this role or have already tried without success then my guide will help you avoid the pitfalls that I’ve seen time and time again.
ONE to one coaching
From £30
I advise those that are interested in fashion buying on a one to basis, in person, by Skype or email. Get in touch to discuss this further.
WHAT DOES A FASHION BUYER DO?
Fashion buyers are experts in sales analysis, future trends, customer knowledge, negotiating and planning. They predict what customers want years before they realise they want them.
They are responsible for planning ranges that are profitable and commercially viable. They utilise sales data, trend analysis, knowledge of the market and the customer to create products that are competitive.
In addition to creating the initial objectives for their department they analyse customers buying patterns, pricing structures and reactions to trends and quality level to plan ranges that fit into assigned budgets.
They liaise and communicate with each function of a business to ensure productivity and effective ways of working. They are the function that brings the others together to work in unison, most notably the design, merchandising and garment technology departments.
Buyers are highly organised, driven people with great communication skills and commercial acumen. They are usually the pivotal function in a companies product team and often have ultimate responsibility for the success of a range.
WHat does a buyer do on a day to day basis?
At varying times in the buying cycle responsibilities will include the following:
Predicting trends and analysing the market by completing competitor/inspirational shopping trips and doing online research.
Travelling around the world, attending trade shows, visiting factories, suppliers and shopping.
Reviewing sales and consumer patterns by analysing data (usually) supplied by the merchandising team.
Reacting to current sales.
Planning and building new ranges and products.
Meeting suppliers and maintaining relationships with them; putting new developments into work, negotiating prices and programmes with them where appropriate.
Liaising with other functions in the business, most notably the design, merchandising and garment technology teams.
Presenting their ranges and creating reports of their analysis and the work they have completed.
Visiting stores to get feedback from customers.
Managing the critical path to ensure products are in on time.
Attending fit sessions with garment techs to ensure that the product fits the customers expectations in terms of fit and quality.
Coaching and managing their team.
