Life as a PR/Communications Intern during LFW/LFWM

One may describe London Fashion Week as a time where practitioners' stress levels are at their peak. However, being apart of creating a memorising show through increasing awareness of the show on social media and sourcing sponsors is a worthwhile experience. In addition, my time interning during LFWM (in an agency) and LFW (in-house) enabled me to identify the work environment I prefer but also gain a first-hand experience of the fashion industry and not rely on the TV show 'Absolutely Fabulous' to understand whether I envision myself working in the industry. 

I wanted to share with you some interview questions I was asked for the role as a public relations intern. 

• How would you describe yourself?
• What do you know about our clients?
• What skills do you have?
• Do you have any previous PR experience? 
• Do you have any other experience that can aid you when interning for us?
• Why do you want to intern with us?

What to expect when interning during LFW/LFWM

• Preparing invitations for guests.
• Creating newsletters leading up to the show.
• Creating digital content leading up to the show. 
• Being Post Man Pat for the day - You will be asked to deliver the invitations personally, I suggest when you are interning in London get a weekly/monthly travel card. As it can be costly to go around London via public transport to deliver a vast number of invitations.
• During casting, you may be asked to help the models change into different looks.
• Making sure that the samples are presentable - this may include steaming the samples several times before it is worn by the model.
• Greeting guests before the show begins.
• Checking emails.
• Returning and sending out samples using the Fashion GPS.

Advice when interning during LFW/LFWM

• Wear sensible footwear, I promise that you will thank me later. Ditch the heels and wear trainers, as you will be running around London doing errands for your boss, and your feet will thank you.
• Download 'City Mapper' - this app is extremely helpful when navigating your way around London.
• Have a black outfit ready - during the shows/ presentations you will be required to wear all black. 
• Do not take things to heart - It can be very busy during the lead up to the show/presentation, so do not be alarmed if negative energy is being thrown your way by your boss or your team. Just make sure you are on top of the task that you were given and try and help your teammates around you. 
• Make sure you know how to steam clothes and be careful when doing this as there is only one sample.
• Network - make sure you put your best foot forward as you will be meeting a variety of people within the industry from people from hair and makeup, stylists and designers. Be friendly, helpful and knowledgable about the industry (including the designer). 
• Take the initiative - during this busy time there is a lot to do so, do not be lazy as this portrays a negative impression of yourself! Therefore, go out of your way to help ease the tension surrounded the busy time. 

I hope you found the insights valuable, if you have any further questions please leave them in the comments section.

OJA x