In Conversation with Erin Rettig-Mechem

Tell us about your background: 

- Seasoned Footwear and Accessories Design Director (19 + years)
- Experience in Luxury Goods, direct-to-consumer, eco-friendly/sustainable, and comfort footwear
- Elevated and experimental design approach grounded by a passion for business strategy
- Keen understanding of footwear and accessories construction
- At ease presenting concepts to internal teams, partners, and clients
- Veteran line-builder
- Comfortable managing budgets, development calendars, and Design Team members
- Extensive experience in Italy, China, and Mexico
- Excellent communication skills; fluent Italian and French, basic Spanish and German

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

I wish I understood the importance of writing post-interview thank you notes better as a young professional. At the beginning of my career, when working with recruiters, I took the direction that I “should not contact the employer directly” quite literally. Of course, I now know that no good recruiter would think it inappropriate for a candidate to send a follow-up thank you letter to an interviewer – in fact most recruiters highly encourage this step.

I still cringe to think that I failed to thank a few interviewers when I was starting out. Live and learn.

Best career advice you've ever received?

Never complain about your boss or other colleagues at work - and certainly do not air your grievances to Human Resources*. You may give constructive feedback in a performance review, but proceed gingerly and know your audience’s level of receptiveness.

*There is one exception to the “don’t complain to HR rule”: If you witness or experience instances of discrimination or harassment in the workplace – then by all means, do the right thing.

On a related note, never speak poorly of a former boss or employer at interview. Even if your experience at a previous company was poor, criticizing your former boss or previous company to potential employers will always work against you.

If you do need help resolving an issue with a boss, seek the advice of a mentor. A more seasoned professional may be able to give you sage advice and help you navigate a tricky situation.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

First and foremost, a good leader must have a clear vision, a plan to achieve goals, and must be able to clearly communicate objectives. A strong leader must also be fair, even-tempered, and able to advocate for his/her/their team.

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far? 

My interests have always been quite varied. My expertise is footwear design, however I have designed (and still enjoying designing) different categories, including Ready-To-Wear, Knitwear, Handbags, and Small Leather Goods. I have worked both in full-time and consulting capacities, and I have engaged in entrepreneurial endeavors. Accordingly, when compared to other footwear designers with the same number of years of experience, my résumé may appear less “linear” to some recruiters and/or potential employers. The challenge I occasionally face is being able to effectively convey the value in my multi-dimensional professional background. I know that my experience with direct-to-consumer businesses, start-ups, small design house, large corporations, luxury and contemporary price points, and sustainable/ethically sourced design give me a very rich perspective – whether I can articulate the value in the variety well in an interview is my challenge.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

Cashmere sweaters in delicious colors.

LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-rettig-mechem-235266b/

Website: http://rettigcollection.com

Instagram: @rettigcollection , @wundamutha