High End

How can I find a job in a high-end retail store, maybe a boutique?

Thanks in advance for anything helpful. If I am a university student with no experience at all, is there any chance I could get hired? I don't really care for the pay, as long as it's not volunteering, because sales would really help with my major, marketing. I really would prefer jobs in clothing stores, preferably high-end, brand names or designer boutiques? Is it too presumptious of me? If so, what experience would i need first? Btw, I do have interest in fashion, fine art background etc
Much appreciated..
I have been applying to expensive clothing stores since high school for summer jobs as clerks etc, but never got any replies. I assume it's because I have no experience at all. How do I overcome this disadvantage in employer's eyes?

Continue applying and staying in touch with them after the application. See if someone would be willing to give you honest feedback - and they may not - on why you aren't getting hired.

Also, if your lack of experience is really the critical issue (and it probably is):

* Check with your university's career center to see if there are any alumni/ae of your school who work in "high-end retail" who have offered to help students and other alumni learn more about their industry and/or company.

* Lower your sights a bit - from high-end retail to the middle, although that may backfire on you later.

* Start with a different kind of store even to something unrelated to fashion if they will take a chance on you.

* See if any local temp staffing agencies in your area have openings in those kind of stores. You may hve a better chance getting experience as a temp.

* Look for recruiters who specialize in placing people in high-end retail, and see if they can get you in. Remember that recruiters work for the employer - **not** for you - but many of them are experienced and kind and may have a few minutes to give you some feedback and a few tips.

I just did a quick search of the Bloomingdale's and Neiman Marcus Websites using ONLY the term "entry level" (without the quotes). Bloomingdale's had nothing, but Neiman Marcus had 2 jobs, both in Texas - "merchandise coordinator" and "vendor services - level 1." If you were in Irving or Dallas, TX, you could give it a shot.

I also just did a quick search of Indeed.com on "merchandise coordinator" (WITH the quotes), and it found 551 jobs across the U.S. - including Ralph Lauren Media (12 jobs), Tiffany's (13 jobs), Williams-Sonoma (55), Liz Claiborne (12), TJ Maxx (183), and many more.

Good luck! You'll get there eventually, just don't give up.

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