A promotional model is very different from any other kind. Most models ultimately pose for images, and once you take the pictures, the job is done. This is not the case with a promotional model. When you take a promotional modeling job, you will be far more involved with the company and product, as the job is partially modeling and partially sales.
If you’re looking at modeling as a way to have a series of quick jobs, you’ll probably want to look into a different type of modeling. However, if you have a lot of energy and love interacting with people, promotional modeling may be perfect for you.
There's a way to fast track your promotional modeling career (join a modeling agency that specializes in promotional modeling).
What is a Promotional Model?
A promotional model is often referred to as a ‘brand ambassador’. A promotional model must know about the company’s history and the product they are selling. They are in charge of strengthening relations between the company and the public in a fun and endearing way.
People skills are highly prized in a promotional model and necessary for the job, as a promotional model’s purpose at an event is to drive interest in what the company is trying to sell. For this reason, a promotional model must also be physically and conventionally attractive to match the particular company.
For example, a company promoting a car at a vehicle expo might be looking for a traditional and tall model, but a clothing store specializing in more alternative fashions may be more interested in a tattooed and pierced model to give people with that style the impression that they will actually use the products.
How Much Does a Promotional Model Make?
A promotional model makes between $36,000 to $126,000 per year. As with any other job, many factors contribute to how much you earn.
A more recognizable and experienced model will earn more money than a newer model. At the beginning of your career, you may receive payment closer to the base rate because hiring an unknown model is always a risk for a company. The more jobs you get and the more your name circulates, the more money you will be able to get from these jobs.
How to Become a Promotional Model
You are a conventionally attractive person. You have the memory and stamina to interact with the public and give them information about the company you’re looking to promote. You have a good smile and an engaging personality. If all of these things are true, you’re off to a great start in becoming a promotional model. But how do you get into the business?
Work On Your People Skills
One of the most vital things a promotional model does is talk to people. Study up on how to be charismatic. Practice with people you know. When you go in for an interview, your magnetism is something recruiters will be paying particular attention to, so you need to be sure you can make your personality shine.
If you can charm the employer you’re trying to get a job with, you will be able to win over your audience. At a job, you’ll encourage people to ask questions about the product or company you’re trying to promote. For some people, this can be exhausting, but if you are someone who thrives on attention, this will be somewhere you can flourish.
Put Together a Portfolio
Even for a model who will be physically present and interacting with the public, it’s crucial to have a professional portfolio to give your potential employers. Having a professional photographer take these images is a crucial aspect of the job search, as clean and high-quality pictures can make or break your portfolio and your first impression.
It is also important to remember not to put selfies or any risque photographs in your portfolio. You may look amazing in them, but those don’t make for a professional look. Once you’ve put your very best photos together, you’ll be able to apply to jobs that are not open-call auditions.
Look Into an Agency
If you’re doing any modeling, you will probably want to sign with a modeling agency. In promotional modeling, you will need someone to vouch for your ability to talk to people. An agent will be able to reassure employers of your interpersonal skills and your work ethic.
Another good reason to have an agent is safety. Many scam artists in the modeling world consider lesser-known models to be particularly vulnerable to dishonesty. With an agency, you minimize your risk of not being paid for your work and your employers taking liberties with you.
Look into the modeling agency you want to apply to before submitting anything While most promotional agencies have policies that allow you to work for more than one at a time, some require exclusive contracts. Read over their information and decide whether or not their terms are acceptable.
Be Professional on the Job
Your conduct during a job will significantly impact your ability to book more opportunities afterward. Because the promotional modeling industry is so small, if you prove yourself to be unpleasant to work with, it will not be long before everyone in the business knows about it. You must protect your reputation as well as your face.
Perform well, show up on time, and be cordial to both customers and the people you work for. If you treat each job with professionalism and respect, people will recommend you to other companies. Being popular with clients is just as important as being popular with customers!
Think You’ve Got What It Takes?
Promotional modeling is very different from almost any other kind of modeling. You may have more difficulties and expectations, but this job can also be one of the most rewarding experiences for a model. If you are a naturally charismatic person, promotional modeling might be the best career move for you. If you can tell it, you can sell it!
