Model Mayhem 101: Getting Started

I know I keep directing my fellow model friends to www.ModelMayhem.com (MM). Especially if you don’t have an agency. However, Model Mayhem, while widely used, has many in’s and out’s you should all be aware of.

What exactly is Model Mayhem?
Model Mayhem is an online social media networking outlet for models, photographers, and many more industry related individuals. As Model Mayhem expands, so does its users. There are accounts for not only makeup artists, hairstylists, and designers, but also stylists, photoshop wizards, artist/painters, body painters, digital artists, and agents.

Getting Started
I keep saying how important it is to network in this, and every other industry. Model Mayhem launched my networking abilities in the fashion industry and I’ve been climbing the rungs ever since. Model Mayhem is for dipping your toes and then diving in to the industry. I always suggest Model Mayhem for beginning models (unless your agency is adamant against you having an account or if they are already keeping your schedule full).

I’m not saying MM has been the driving force of my success. I’m saying it has been an ideal tool in showcasing my talent and connecting with other like-minded individuals. Continue reading “Model Mayhem 101: Getting Started”

Networking: 3 Things to Remember: pt 3 Events

Event Networking

We’ve discussed almost all the main points in networking. Social media, chance encounters…. And, if you really want to insert yourself into the industry, attend all the events! Events are big for networking. Other than fun, one of the main reasons people come out to an event is to meet new people. Get out of the house to an industry event, mingle, be personable. People will start to know your face, see it around a lot, and make connections. Never stop looking for friendly people to strike up conversation with. I have met extremely valuable and helpful people just by taking my time to model in shows and attending the after parties.

FINDING EVENTS: So, how do you know where the events are? Well, now that you’re effectively networking within the industry, meeting people on industry related social media sites, opportunities should start popping up. When you’re friends with a lot of people on Facebook, the event invites will undoubtedly follow. They might even get annoying. Don’t get annoyed too soon, though. Check them out! Give them a chance.

When you’re in the fashion industry like me, you’ll want to keep a lookout for local designer fashion shows, charity shows, in-store parties and promotions, photo shoots, castings, and more. Continue reading “Networking: 3 Things to Remember: pt 3 Events”

Networking: 3 Things to Remember: pt 2 Chance Encounters

I know you all loved my previous part 1 of 3 post on networking, right? Right? I know! I’m sorry! I know I wrote part 1 in early May, but this little someone has been preoccupied with work and other blog topics since moving to New York City. I have some down time here at my new place now to focus on helping YOU. With more blog posts. I love writing these, don’t think I forgot about you. 

Previously we discussed social media networking (pt 1 of our 3-part blog post). To bring you back to date, we had established that social media’s objective is to get your name out there and to stay fresh in all your fans’ minds. Networking brings you the valuable connections.

Visit the previous part 1 blog to refresh your memory on the dos and don’ts of all your social media outlets. Continue reading “Networking: 3 Things to Remember: pt 2 Chance Encounters”

Networking: 3 Things to Remember: pt 1 Social Media

Okay. Networking.

I love networking! I love lovely people and sharing thoughts, ideas, experiences. The term “it’s all about who you know” applies to everyone, everywhere. Once you realize that this is an essential piece of knowledge, you can continue forward, putting yourself in situations to meet experienced and talented individuals. As a model, a good majority of my time is spent networking. Why do you think I am always on Facebook?

Just through internet networking (Model Mayhem), I have had the amazing chance to work with Matthew Jordan Smith, a photographer from LA who has shot Tyra Banks, Oprah Winfry, and more. I have had the opportunity to work with Antoinette Beenders, a renowned global stylist for Aveda. I know people who know people. Connections can get you anywhere if you know how to use them.

When I think networking, the first three things that come to mind are social media, events, and chance encounters.

I’m going to dive right into what I know about social media in part one of this three part blog post and tell you about what techniques work best for me for networking through this avenue. Continue reading “Networking: 3 Things to Remember: pt 1 Social Media”