Name: Stephanie Mark
Job Title and Description: Co-Founder of Coveteur
College Name/Major: Parsons School of Design, Fashion Marketing
Website: Coveteur.com
Instagram Handle: @stephaniegmark
What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?
SM: There is definitely no such thing as a typical day. My role at Coveteur is Co-Founder and Head of Business Development. Being in those two roles puts me in every aspect of the business, so my current job entails everything from being on set, working with our editorial team, collaborating on ideas with our sales team, coaching and managing employees, and everything in between!
What is the best part of your job?
SM: When I walk into the office after being away from work, and I see everyone and realize how much I missed them, and how happy I am to be back in the office with the whole team––that is the best part! The other part that I really love about my job is being able to meet so many successful and creative people in this industry, many who I have admired even before starting Coveteur.
What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?
SM: My first job ever in fashion was working at Roots in Toronto when I was 17. I was a sales person on the floor. After I finished my degree at Parsons, my first job was a junior agent role at Women Management. All of these jobs were great experiences in customer service and building contacts within the industry. It’s important to take all opportunities presented to you, and intern as much as you can! Some of my best contacts and industry relationships were made from internships.
What words of wisdom do you find most valuable?
SM: Work hard and be nice to people. Those two things really do pay off.
What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it?
SM: Not saying no. By being afraid to stir the pot or hurt someone’s feelings, decisions were made that were not best for the company. More personally, it let people think that I wouldn’t stand up for myself – and that is not how you want to be seen. That doesn’t mean you need to be overpowering or abrasive, but knowing how to communicate what you are truly feeling in an effective way is really important.
What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?
SM: Putting out our book, Coveteur: Private Spaces, Personal Style. Having my name as an author is something I never thought I’d see. I wasn’t the best student, so the thought of even having the option to have a book in my name seemed so surreal, and nonetheless launching it with some of my favorite people and places like Bergdorf Goodman, Nordstrom, Matches Fashion, and all of previous “Coveteurs.”
What do you look for when considering hiring someone?
SM: Attitude and willingness to jump in and learn, with a strong follow-through are the most important things for me.
What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?
SM: Really put yourself out there. If there is an internship or position at a company you want to intern or work for, avoid sending your resume to a general email address. Call the office and ask who you should send it to, research the right people to reach out to, etc. That type of attitude will take you far.
What’s the one thing that’s stood out to you the most in a resume?
SM: The best resumes are concise and highlight growth and success in their previous roles.
Fill out my online form.