How to get a job in the beauty industry.

How to get a job in the beauty industry. I should know..because I have one. In visual merchandising. 

Here's strong list of "to-do's" in order to get a job in the beauty industry:

1. It may sound traditional, but I went to UCSB, and I attribute my success to that. So, if you can, go to school, even part time if you have to. Receive a higher degree - because it's competitive out there! And unfortunately that's the only way to differentiate amongst everyone.

2. Put your portfolio online (through carbonmade.com OR behance.com) and share your portfolio with recruiters.

 3. GET AN INTERNSHIP NOW! If you are still in college, definitely get internships early, brands like Estee Lauder and L'oreal, offer SUMMER internships every year. If you don't get one this year, try again next! Look up the "career" section of ANY brand you are interested in , through their website.

 4. Don't say no to unpaid internships, although not ideal (I know, you have to eat), experience NOW will help you later. My motto is, suffer now, play later. That fancy bag you are eyeing ?? You don't need it, TRUST.

 5. Don't feel like you can't change industries, if you really have to, invest in an online certificate (i.e. UCLA extension) and find a lower position, even if you have to start entry level. I personally took a huge step back four years into my career, to get the job I really wanted! And now, 8 years later, with 3 different brands!, it paid off! Be patient, it doesn't happen overnight.

6. Find someone on linkedin, and send them a message! Especially if it is a recruiter, or a VP in the department you want. I have often interviewed individuals that reach out to me through LinkedIn. It's impressive and shows you can take a beneficial risk.

 7.If you must, get an MBA. It can catapult you forward and counts for YEARS of experience. In other words, it's a replacement for experience.

 8. BE TENACIOUS. Hound the recruiters! Don't be shy. Send them weekly or monthly emails reminding them of your passion and curiosity, and your high GPA score ;) 6. It sounds cliche, but literally never give up. I once interviewed THREE times with a brand (for three different jobs) before finally getting All of these rules also pertain to fashion. I actually started my career in software, took a step "back" to fashion, and moved UP to cosmetics. It's been a wild but fulfilling ride.

 Find me @lovecrushbella xo

Am I too middle eastern? And more bullshit questions.

I work in the beauty industry and overheard my caucasian coworker say, "She's too Middle Eastern".

Not about me, but about a model. This model wasn't "on brand". Working for a brand, I get it, sometimes I need to mute my personal style and focus on the "brand". But that doesn't match my politics. Am I demurring my ideals for money?

My politics tell me to promote and support everyone, regardless of what they look like. What would a brand look like if it had NO rules, literally NO rules about branding - model color style etc. Would it be TOO much? Or would it be just right?