Nothing upsets me more than an aspiring model with no drive or motivation. Unless you're scouted by a top agency or "discovered" in some other fashion, the modeling industry will not come to you.You can have the greatest look on the planet but if you don't take the steps necessary to put yourself out there, you won't get very far. It's one thing to be new to the industry and unsure how to go about it, but it's another thing completely to expect others to do the work for you.
I've come across people with this particular air of, "I want to be a model. This is what I really want, this is what I can do and this is the agency I want to sign with." Oh, if it were only that easy! In modeling, you have to be a go-getter or else you won't get any results. Having more to offer than just what you want will get you further than just stating matter-of-factly what makes you so special.
Heck, I don't work for a modeling agency so it's not me you have to impress--it's the agencies! So go out there and show them why you're worthy of representation! Additionally, I am still seeing the same old posts on sites like Craigslist, where aspiring and even established models are posting about agency representation or describing themselves in a way that I guess is supposed to entice big name clients, agencies, photographers, etc. into wanting to work with them. The arrogance that comes across in these postings is actually appalling to me and I find it hard to believe that such individuals expect to be treated professionally.
The first thing to realize about this industry is that it isn't here to serve "you." Models are first and foremost a commodity. We willingly put ourselves out there to be used by clients and agencies. I'm not saying it's right, but it is a business and if you want to be a player, you've got to follow the rules of the game.
Looking for agency representation? Then start searching online for agency websites. The Internet has made it easier than ever to find such information and if you haven't figured that out by now and are still wondering how to get your foot in the door, then you're far from a go-getter. Being a go-getter means finding answers for yourself and not resting at the first sign of rejection or a challenge that may seem too much for you to handle. Unless you make noise, no one will listen.
Freelance models also need to have this kind of approach to their work, even more so than models seeking agency representation because freelancers are solely responsible for their careers. Being driven, passionate, and determined will get you results, not sitting around fantasizing and wishing someone would discover you and make you into a model.
The desire to be a model takes more than just stating that you want to be one. Make people care by taking action. Do your research and find out what works for you and go out there and do it! When you're just starting out, your pride/ego needs to be put aside.
Step outside of yourself at this stage and realize that you are one out of so many vying for the same thing--pretty faces come and go but if you bring more than just the physical appeal, you can get further than the competition. Not being a go-getter is a quick way to being forgotten by the industry before you've even introduced yourself.
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