What student doesn’t want to land a job after graduation? The path toward employment—especially in today’s job market, with factors like AI changing the landscape constantly—is where students need a competitive edge.
That’s where Get Hired in Style came in. Moderated by Fashion Business Management faculty member Holly Cole, the candid industry conversation on Tuesday, October 6, presented by the Jay and Patty Baker School of Business and Technology featured Maurice Brown, president, Polo Retail Outlets, Ralph Lauren; Megan Houle, founder and CEO, Concé; Valentina Lucaj, president, Rag & Bone; and Ron Thurston, best-selling author and host, the podcast Retail in America.
The conversation covered topics from making the most of entry level jobs, networking, and the role of AI in everyone’s present and future professional lives.
On entry-level jobs—and turning them into a career
Thurston: I strongly believe in the sales floor because it teaches you the most important skill that you can have in this industry, which is your ability to sell. That’s the human connection between a stranger and yourself.
On networking, and what success looks like when one is not yet a professional
Houle: Stop making it about yourself, and get curious about other people.
Lucaj: Eighty percent of your work is your reputation. Every job, every class, every interaction is an opportunity to build your reputation. What do you want people in the world to know, to think, to believe about you? More than my network, it’s my reputation that has afforded me opportunities.
On AI
Brown: In two years we’ve moved from “We’re exploring [AI],” to “We’re adding budget to it,” to “We’re thinking about it,” to “It’s the price of entry.” It’s really exciting. So don’t fight this. Become an expert. Accept what is happening and create your own future.
Lucaj: It won’t take your future job, but it will change what entry level jobs look like. I want you to wake up tomorrow with a different mindset around AI and a level of confidence in your future.
On the one piece of advice you wish you had taken
Thurston: I would have raised my hand more. From the minute someone says, “I’ve got a stretch assignment,” “I’ve got a project,” “Hey, can you jump in?” Absolutely, yes. Don’t ever hesitate to do more than is asked of you.
Brown: Try as many things as you can. Follow your interests. That’s where the gold is. Get mentors now. Aim high. Cold call. Emails. LinkedIn. Shoot for the bullseye.