There is a lot more to modelling than just being ready for your assignment and being able to follow directions. Though preparation prior to your big day and being enthusiasm on set is vital, models must be in the right frame of mind to see their job through from initial booking to the end of the assignment. A model’s mindset can speak volumes, and it won’t go unnoticed by the professionals you work with. We cannot say this often enough: being positive in times of adversity is a key weapon in a model’s armour.
Models should be positive throughout the year – not just when the chips are down. It’s easy to think things will go against you when you reach an obstacle; sometimes that’s human nature, especially when dreams haven’t been realised. The difference between success and failure and happiness and sorrow is to step back and reflect on the bigger picture. Tomorrow is always a new day, and models can easily come back fighting if their mindset is strong. To stay positive is a test of one’s character. The question is: do you have the character to stay positive and to put any negativity behind you?
Most of our models and clients remain positive. That’s because they know they are part of a winning team. However, self-doubt can creep into anyone, and this should be addressed.
The trick to turning a lack of confidence into assured positivity is two-fold:
1. You must remain faithful to your core strengths, whatever they may be. No one is perfect, so everyone makes mistakes. Everyone, though, has a least one strength they should show to the world. Maybe you have a particular skill like acting, singing or impersonation. Perhaps there’s something you can do that none of your friends and family can. Or maybe you’re the most social person in your circle of friends, and you’re the one person others approach to confide with. That’s a strength that others value. Use it to create positivity in yourself and others.
2. Be open to change. There’s a difference between being headstrong and being sheer stubborn. Acknowledge the fact that adopting small changes in your life can change your overall outlook. A few tweaks here and there can work wonders for your general perspective.
Specifically for models, be realistic and true to yourself. If you’ve signed up with us, you’ve made the first real step to finding modelling and acting work. But don’t be under the illusion that dream assignments will land in your lap. Of course, we’ve offered thousands of jobs to some of our models who’ve been on our books for a matter of weeks. That’s because they’ve improved their portfolios and our clients (who make the final decision) have been impressed with what they can offer their campaigns. Most models must wait longer than a few weeks because it’s a very competitive industry. We always do our best to find the right assignment for the right model, but we never make the final choice and we never guarantee work.
That’s when staying positive comes into play. Rely on your core modelling strengths: looks, personality, professionalism etc. But be prepared to change your portfolio with updated photos, reels and new hobbies and interests.
We’re in this together, and we’re behind you every step of the way along your modelling career ladder.
