13 Skills You Need To Develop If You Want To Be A Model

Summary

This video highlights 13 essential skills aspiring models need to succeed in the competitive industry. Beyond physical appearance, models must develop expertise in fashion, photography, runway techniques, time management, organization, and communication. The video emphasizes the importance of self-branding, negotiation, networking, self-control, and decision-making, as well as the ability to stay motivated in the face of rejection. With insights from iconic figures like Naomi Campbell and Alexa Chung, viewers are encouraged to hone these skills to build a successful modeling career in an ever-evolving industry.

Takeaways

• 😀 Fashion is about more than trends—find your own style and wear what you're comfortable in.
• 📸 Understanding photography basics, like lighting and angles, is crucial for a model's success.
• 🚶‍♀️ A model's walk can be trained—poise and confidence are key to rocking the runway.
• ⏰ Time management is vital, whether you're freelancing or juggling multiple bookings and events.
• 🗂️ Organization helps manage auditions, shoots, and sudden changes in schedule efficiently.
• 🗣️ Effective communication, including body language and active listening, plays a major role in professional success.
• 👂 Active listening is essential for taking instructions and creating a great collaboration with photographers and teams.
• 📱 Self-branding is crucial in today’s digital age—use social media as your portfolio and showcase your unique style.
• 💬 Negotiation skills are important for models, whether you have an agent or not, to ensure you're compensated fairly.
• 🤝 Networking opens doors—build genuine, informed connections to advance your career in the modeling industry.
• 💪 Self-motivation helps you persevere through rejection and criticism, essential for long-term success in modeling.

Q & A

What is the most important skill for a model to have according to the video?

While the video highlights multiple skills, fashion sense stands out as one of the most important. A model's ability to create a personal style and remain fashionable, like Alexa Chung, Zendaya, and Naomi Osaka, is crucial for standing out in the industry.

How does photography knowledge contribute to a model's success?

Photography knowledge is essential because a model needs to understand lighting, angles, and how to present themselves on camera. This includes taking great selfies and understanding how to use light to their advantage, especially in an age where social media visibility is key.

What makes a runway walk so important for a model?

A model's walk is their signature. The video emphasizes that it is not only about walking but also about embodying confidence and style. Naomi Campbell’s walk, for instance, is a result of years of practice, combining poise, rhythm, and confidence.

Why is time management a crucial skill for models?

Time management helps models juggle multiple commitments, such as photoshoots, meetings, and other obligations. Mastering this skill ensures that they can handle their busy schedules efficiently and meet deadlines, which is key to maintaining a successful career.

What role does organization play in a model's career?

Organization is critical for managing auditions, client meetings, location changes, and other aspects of a modeling career. Models need to stay on top of their schedules and responsibilities to avoid missing important opportunities.

How can a model improve their communication skills?

Good communication in modeling goes beyond speaking. It's about body language, understanding non-verbal cues, and showing respect to everyone you work with. Regularly interacting with industry professionals helps models improve these skills over time.

Why is active listening important in modeling?

Active listening is essential because models frequently receive instructions from photographers, directors, and other industry professionals. Listening carefully ensures that they understand the vision for a shoot or runway show, which ultimately leads to better results and stronger professional relationships.

What is self-branding, and why is it important for a model?

Self-branding refers to a model's ability to create and promote their personal image and identity, especially online. By using platforms like Instagram as an online portfolio, models can attract agents and clients, even if they aren't scouted in traditional ways.

How does networking influence a model's career?

Networking is key to opening doors in the modeling industry. By connecting with reputable agencies and professionals, models can gain more visibility and access to opportunities, helping to grow their careers.

What are some of the challenges a model faces, and how can they overcome them?

Models face numerous challenges, including rejection, criticism, and the pressure to maintain a certain physique. The video stresses the importance of self-motivation and resilience—models need to keep pushing forward, learning from setbacks, and not letting failures define them.