24 Seven hosted a free panel discussion at its New York offices recently for fashion industry job seekers. Marie Sclafani, Carmelina Pagano, Kathleen O'Grady and Jessica Kerbel, four seasoned fashion industry experts, answered questions about the current job market and shared their insights about what fashion professionals can do to navigate this challenging environment.

Included here is a summary of the event. We hope you find this information useful as you continue to search for your next job.

An Overview of the Fashion Industry

Where are the fashion jobs? What positions are hot?
The good news is there are still jobs to be had in certain sectors of the industry. Moderate affordable brands, Outerwear and brands that supply to the mass marketers are areas that continue to do well. Jobs in eco-friendly design for packaging and accessory brands, fast fashion and retail outlet stores continue to be in demand. Job seekers with skills and experience in production, Tech, CAD, Graphics, Visual/Merchandising and Retail/Wholesale sales continue to be in demand.

Fashion companies are being financially cautious right now and are most likely going to hire freelancers to get the work done. They are spending less on extras and investing in promoting their brands. It's a buyer's market, to be sure. They are looking for people who have diversified and varied skills to maximize productivity. They want to continue to invest in top talent but are willing to wait until they find the person with the right skill-set.

Are companies actually hiring right now?
Yes, companies are hiring. They are not hiring at the rate they were six months ago or one year ago, but they ARE hiring. They are hiring smart, however, to keep their overhead costs down and still get their products to market. They've recognized they can do a lot with a smaller staff and freelancers.

Job seekers need to be flexible. Will you relocate? Will you take less money? Will you do more then you originally signed up for? Remaining positive and focused and giving more is key during these times. Employers want game changers and flexible employees because they are also feeling the pressure of the marketplace.

Is now the right time to consider a job change?
If you are currently employed and looking to make a change, just make sure you are searching confidentially. You don't want your employer to find out that you are looking for a job. A job change is risky, but not impossible. Because it's a buyer's market, you are competing with very talented individuals that most likely are interviewing for the same job. Make sure you understand all of your options and be confident while you are going through the process.

How do you stay employed if you are working?
Your employer is as uncertain about the future as you are. If you can help ease their mind by doing a great job, you will be a key player. Look at your current workload and see if you can take on more. Ask to help with an area of the company that looks like it needs help. Be positive and flexible. If you do not have enough work, be realistic and find additional duties. Expand your job and your VALUE.

Should you work with a recruiter in this economy?
Absolutely. A recruiter's job is to know what's going on in the market, what candidates are available for work and what employers need. Because it's a buyer's market, companies are posting jobs and receiving hundreds of resumes. The process is longer and more challenging. Screening hundreds of resumes is time consuming. On the other hand, when a firm like 24 Seven is involved, the process is simplified. All a hiring manager needs to do is pick up the phone and schedule interviews the next day with our top two to four candidates. We can have people at work on the job in a day or two. We have built trust with our clients and they look to us for a quick turnaround and the right match.

In addition, you can't have enough people helping you land that next freelance or full-time opportunity in this economy. Work with a recruiter while you are also looking.

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