Are you a freelance artist looking to get into the promotional modeling industry? If so, being aware of traits of successful promotional models will help you better decide if this field is right for you. The promotional modeling industry can open many doors, but there are specific traits that promotional models have that make them successful. This fast paced industry isn’t cut out for everyone. When you are just starting out where can you find gigs to work in this industry? What do you need to embody in order to make a good impression? The questions are endless. Let’s get to talking about how to approach the industry.

Just Starting Out:

If you are just starting out as a freelance artist, it may seem overwhelming at first. Where can you book gigs? This is the biggest question that freelance promotional models ask. There are several outlets that you can utilize to help you get started and successfully book gigs as a promotional model.

Many artists who have an interest in promo modeling may join an agency.

Not only can this help you start to create your portfolio and build your resume, but agencies also help you find gigs that would suit you best. Your future employers are going to want to see professional headshots, NOT SELFIES. If you are a millennial then you know how popular selfies are. This will not help you land a gig. Your headshot is ultimately your handshake so make sure it is professional and shows your personality. Make sure to be prepared to invest money into yourself in order to provide your future employers with enough to make a decision on hiring you. If you do not want to have to wait to find gigs, look into online web platforms.

Create a profile through an online web platform.

If you are building your brand as a promotional model you are going to want to start off by searching for online web platforms. This will allow you to create a profile through a gig marketplace that future employers can easily find and book you. On web platforms such as Castango,  future employers can post jobs and hire you direct. The best part about utilizing online web platforms is that you will have the freedom to take control of your own success. Castango, for example, allows you to post professional headshots, a bio, work experience, skills and statistics. This is a great launch pad to allow you to apply for newly posted jobs or get noticed by a company. Be smart as to how you represent yourself since you are building your own brand.

Promotional Model Top Traits:

Are you the type of person to stand out and make an instant impression on someone or a group of people? Are you someone who loves to be social and has a natural niche for having a way with words? These are all great attributes to have. The top traits for promotional models are:

• Charismatic

Promotional models are charismatic and can easily start up intriguing conversations. In order to capture your audience with your personality, having that certain charm will help you capture people.

• Energetic

Be prepared for long hours of standing and maintaining a high energy personality. In many instances, promotional models work conventions, private events, liquor promotions and so on. Successful promotional models continue to have a good attitude and high energy from the moment they arrive at their gig to the time they leave.

• Ambitious

As any freelance artist, you have to have a strong desire to succeed and find the right opportunities in the promotional industry. Having the determination to better yourself as a model and to stand out amongst the rest will lead you down the path to success.

• Outgoing

Having the ability to be socially confident is a wonderful trait that successful freelance promotional models possess. When you are expected to capture an audience’s attention to explain the product or company, speaking with ease is going to show your employer that you are made out for this job.

• Physically Attractive

Appearance is a huge part of promotional modeling. Showing up to a gig looking professional and polished is expected. Your employer will be happy to not have to micromanage you when it comes to your appearance. For women, keep your hair styled, clothes unwrinkled and nails perfect. For men, iron your uniform, keep your hair tamed and don’t forget to wear your best smile. This will lead to success in many ways.

• Professional

From the moment a freelance promotional model comes in contact with their future employer, they are expected to keep a professional and approachable personality. Knowing how to communicate with your employer will help you book the gig and keep a good rapport with them.

• Reliable

Last but not least, being reliable is a must.  Show your employer that they should use you again, it will help you maintain your reputation in the industry. Successful promotional models commit to a job as well as their job description and follow through with everything they do.

As long as you feel confident in yourself and possess the traits listed above you will do amazing as a freelance promotional model. This industry is not cut out for everybody so be aware of what is expected. The promotional modeling industry can be profitable and enjoyable. Anyone can try to be proficient at what they do, but to be successful you must combine all of these traits and maintain them. Be ready to take the steps to build your image from the beginning and keep in mind how important your reputation is as a freelancer. When you are just starting out keep in mind all of your options. Be persistent and never give up no matter how hard you have to fight to reach your goals.