Fashion

It's true that an increasing number of fashion labels can be bought over the internet, but the good news is that trendaholics still love to try on clothes and impulse buy, so your jobs in this traditionally look-and-feel sector are safe. In fact, across all sectors, sales over the internet account for less than 4% of total retail sales, despite strong growth in recent years.

It's also in demand with most consumer types; the baby boomers are cash-rich and keen to look good and the 15-24 year-olds are fashion junkies with the time to shop around.

Unsurprisingly, with perks such as clothes allowances and bonuses, fashion is a popular field to work in, too. This, in turn, makes it tough to break into unless you have worked your way up or trained in it. Those who do well make it their business to always know what the competition is up to, be on the button about what the latest catwalk trends are, and tap into influences coming from the music and film industries — and that goes for whether you are a top designer, store manager or starting out on the shop floor.

Designers work up to two seasons ahead, but they are not the only ones who need a talent for predicting upcoming trends: visual merchandisers, buyers and managers all need to see into the future.

So, if you want to build your career in a fast-paced, competitive but fun sector of retail, you are in the right place. Those of you who are young and trendy are well placed to move up the lower ranks in the high street chains. The important thing is to develop your confidence and intuition so you can transport your skills to any fashion house.