Tag: networking

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5 Networking Resolutions for 2014

Power of Networking

Over and over again, I keep coming to the topic of Networking when it comes to my modeling and thinking of the knowledge I have to share. I cannot emphasize enough how important networking is to really any industry professional.

I recently slogged through a long period of no networking, no photoshoots, and no action. My business as a model was stagnant and I felt rather defeated. I waited to be able to reboot my system. The reboot I required was a month of networking back at home, where I was surrounded by comfortable familiarity.

The month at home was a great refresher and it brought me to realize that I had done very little real networking during my time in New York. Back in Seattle, I made strong relationships and work flowed in. Once I got back to New York, I knew that, because things had grown stagnant, something had to change. After my holiday vacation, I came home, and started networking again. I’ve been home only six days and I’ve gained almost ten new facebook fans and have booked shoots not only in New York, but in areas such as DC as well.

Networking is all about relationships. And in a world that revolves around who you know and, unfortunately, not so much what you know, networking is essential to most all professions. Continue reading “5 Networking Resolutions for 2014”

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Model Mayhem 101: Contests and Boards

Before, I discussed the basic functions and how-to’s of Model Mayhem, using casting calls and collaborating on Model Mayhem, and finally, adapting your Model Mayhem account as you gain experience.

Now, the last remaining Model Mayhem features of note are the contests and forums.

Contests
I see the contests as a way to verify your experience and expertise, the Model Mayhem way. It’s another place to get “popular” on the site.

If you win a contest, you will be awarded with an image indicating that you’ve won. These are good trophies to display on your profile. Your account must have the ability to use BB Code (BBC) to show such images on your profile. Use the same code to display a photo in your profile as the underlined example shown in the next section in italics. Continue reading “Model Mayhem 101: Contests and Boards”

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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”

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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”

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Entrepreneurial, Self-Publishing, Artistic New York City

I never knew people performed INSIDE the subway trains for people before my relocation last week. There are a lot of talented musicians out there. I have encountered guitarists, acapella’s, drummers, wooden flute instruments, and even a saw-like thing played with a string from a violin. They all sound amazing and extremely cultural.

I mean, sure, you’re bound to have a lot of talented people for each profession in a city as concentrated and diverse as New York, but wow!

This is one thing that has really impressed me here. People are willing to try new ideas and to work in some form for money. People here are driven. I’ve encountered fewer panhandlers than individuals asking for money in more creative ways, such as performance and promotion. (And then you’ve got the crazy apocalyptic conspirators holding up big signs, who you can’t be quite sure what their overall goal is). Either way, everyone here seems to be here with a reason, purpose, and strong-willed mind. The city of opportunity. New York: where everything goes down. Where we come to make a living!

Most everyone here is very friendly and forthcoming. I’ve hung out with models attending the same open calls all this week, romped in the rain with them, and had really nice conversations with a lot of different people. There was an experience in particular, however, I’d love to bring to light. A perfect and satisfying example of entrepreneurship I love. 

Let me tell you a story. I’m done with bullet points. Continue reading “Entrepreneurial, Self-Publishing, Artistic New York City”

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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”

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Portland, New York Fashion: Ready or Not, Here I Come!

Public transportation. Gotta love it. Some people cringe at the thought of having to ride the public transit. I decide instead to embrace it. So many good things have come to me through riding the bus. There is always someone who has something to say. Always that one really interesting person. You don’t get that in a car. Once you ride public transit enough, you begin to realize it is its own little community. You save money too! Gas prices are getting ridiculous.

I was late for the bus and debating my different parking options. I wasn’t sure I was going to make it in time. I was on my way to help a friend of the family for the day at her shoe store. I veer into the senior center parking lot, grab my bag, and slam the door just as the bus was getting ready to leave. Sometimes I wonder at how observant the public transit bus drivers are. The man obviously saw my car frantically pulling in (or did he?), but he began to leave the station anyways and I appeared just in time.

I thank the man for waiting for me to board and take a seat.

“Are you a model?” A woman asks just as I am getting settled. I’m always extremely flattered and sometimes a little surprised when people ask me that, especially when I have absolutely no hair product or makeup on. Continue reading “Portland, New York Fashion: Ready or Not, Here I Come!”