Everyone’s got something to give. However, if no one knows what it is, the chances of showing off that “particular something” are greatly reduced. Modesty is an admirable quality that we’re sure a great deal of models have, but appealing to a wider audience sometimes demands forceful publicity.
There’s a big difference between self-promotion and arrogance. It’s not conceited to show off talents. A skilled, ambitious model with an appetite to improve and secure regular work must adhere to two main facts:
- They cannot rest on their laurels. Simply applying to us and waiting for the calls to come won’t equal regular bookings. Models must constantly refresh their ePortfolios with up-to-date, fresh photos; they should manage their expectations and understand know how we operate.
- Models also need to help themselves. We always put in maximum effort to get the right models noticed by our clients – and have done so for nearly four decades. We’re experts at communicating with models and clients to find the perfect match, and clients put their faith in us to come up with the goods. We’ll continue doing this, as the procedure is hugely successful. That doesn’t mean that models shouldn’t self-promote, though. In fact, we encourage it. Have a little modesty but be confident in your ability – and let others know about it!
We see advertising and self-promotion almost every day. Some TV adverts rely on subliminal messages, others are explicit promotions. An advert’s success is not just related to how many people see what it has to say – it’s how many people remember it. That’s the key to advertising.
When it comes to self-promotion, models must use a savvier ploy than merely telling their friends that have what it takes to succeed. With the amount of technical wizardry available, there are plenty of options for models to endorse their skills and looks. Keep an open mind. If something doesn’t work, move on and continue.
Strengthen your social media presence by uploading reels. They can be more effective than photos, as you can show off your character and personality in addition to your looks. Utilise gimmicks, but don’t go overboard. Never neglect the real reason why you’re putting in the effort to publicise yourself: to portray a genuine persona to people who want to use your talents in modelling shoots. Don’t use strong filters or alter any films or images to an extend that you’re conning the viewer. Be honest and believe in your looks.
Regarding social media, put some thought into what type of content you’re uploading. It would be easy to take a few photos without any real thought, putting them on your social media account for followers to admire and comment on. Think about the upcoming seasons, and what our clients might like to see. For example, if it’s approaching autumn, it’d be better to self-promote yourself in corresponding wintery clothes.
Network. Once you’ve registered with us, you’ve made the first step to working with our clients. Don’t leave it at that, though. Attend industry events and continue researching the commercial modelling industry. Read up on working with professional photographers, and familiarize yourself with buzzwords in the industry.
Build your reputation. Clients and agencies admire professionalism. Just as word-of-mouth is often the best form of advertising, so can models increase their workload once you’ve secured your first assignment. Be punctual, be polite, be accommodating and inquisitive, and pick up as many tips and contacts as possible.
Finally, don’t be too despondent if you don’t secure model bookings as quickly as you wish. The industry is very competitive, but rest assured that with the number of clients we work with combined with our experienced booking team, you’ll be recommended when your look is called for. By promoting yourself, you’ll give yourself even more chance to shine in front of the cameras.
