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What does a Model do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A model is a person who is hired to pose for artists, photographers, and other clients in order to help advertise a product or service.

Model job duties include:

  • To promote and sell products or services
  • To pose for photographs, either alone or with others
  • To be used as a reference by painters, illustrators, sculptors, and other artists
  • To provide information about products or services
  • To work as an actor in commercials, movies, television shows, stage plays, or other productions
  • To walk the runway at fashion shows
  • To serve as a host or hostess at special events such as parties, conventions, and conferences
  • To serve as a tour guide at tourist attractions
  • To provide companionship or escort services

Model Job Requirements

There are no formal education requirements for models, but many agencies require models to have some kind of training, usually in modeling or acting. Certification from an accredited modeling agency can be helpful in getting work. Some agencies also require models to have a portfolio of professional photos. Many models start their careers when they are very young and have little or no experience.

Model Skills

  • Punctuality
  • Professionalism
  • Reliability
  • Communication skills
  • Flexibility
  • Teamwork
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Leadership
  • Organizational skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Creativity

Related: Top Model Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Model

A model is a person who is hired to showcase, advertise and promote commercial products or to serve as a visual aid for people who are creating works of art. Models are often featured in magazines, newspapers, movies, television shows and online media. There are different types of modeling such as runway modeling, print modeling, plus-size modeling, hand modeling and many more. If you want to become a model, here are some things that you can do:

1. Do your research. You need to know what kind of modeling you want to do and what the requirements are. There are different agencies that represent different types of models. Do some research and find out which agency would be the best fit for you.

2. Start practicing your poses. Take some time to practice in front of the mirror or with friends so that you can get comfortable with your posing.

3. Get a portfolio together. Start collecting photos of yourself that show off your best features. You will need these for when you meet with agencies or clients.

4. Attend open calls or go on castings. This is how most models find work. Attend open calls that are announced in the media or go on castings that are advertised online or in magazines.

5. Be professional at all times. When you finally get the chance to work with an agency or client, it is important that you conduct yourself in a professional manner at all times.

Related: Model Resume Example

Related: Model Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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