How to monetize your brand as a Model

Throw a stone in any major city your in and most probably it will hit a 'Model'. Why is there an upsurge of models? is it that the modelling industry is lucrative or instagram has made it easy for everyone to be a model?

Monetizing your brand as a model

Models are everywhere. New York, Shanghai, Tokyo, Jo’Burg, Lagos, Milan, Nairobi ,Dubai you name it.Just throw a stone in any streets these cities and most probably you will hit a “model”. So who really is a model? KARL RUSEN has defined a model as any person male or female who markets a cloth.

This is a generation where everybody wants to be famous and so modelling is just that one easy career that they opt to take. Well, it works for some and some it doesn’t. For those who are lucky to be called models and enjoy a wide range of followers but still no REAL Money coming your way, this is just for you. Why should you invest in your talent by paying for series of photoshoots, walking on runways with 8 inch heels and put in all the effort and money only for someone to download your photo and use it for free? “let him use it, after all he is making me more famous”. That’s what you lie to yourself honey, in fact his bank account is sky rocketing all thanks to you ‘model’. Well,don’t be left behind , here are some of the ways that will make sure you also laugh all way to the bank as you seek stardom.

photo credit : Nyakim Gatwech

1. Change your perspective about your worth.

Mindset. This is where it all begins. If you see yourself just as a local model then local will you remain. Embrace yourself fully and tell that person behind the mirror that you are born to be a star and as you proclaim with your mouth so shall it be. How much does Gigi Hadid or Kaia Berger earn ? what about you? That’s the difference. Believe that all your knowledge, skills combined with expertise are market worthy, says brand monetization strategists La Monica Moore.

2. Set up your own personal website and link it with all your social media handles.

Use search engine optimization (SEO) as they highly contribute to your brand monetization. Use your brand name or key words that ties in with your content. For example ;

Kaia Campbell- how I work out before hitting the runway.

Kaia Campbell- my summer look book etc.

3. Work with a team of Professionals.

I know you are telling yourself I can’t afford paying this people, well ,if you present yourself to the world as a joke, a joke will you be. You don’t have to spend any dime working with these people that includes photographers, bloggers, makeup Artist, stylists, publicists etc. Reach out to them on social media, look for the ones who are starting up and negotiate on the working terms.

4. Do not wait for the opportunity. Create it.

Be the Red in the midst of Purple. Create your own signature walk, take that picture with hot coals on your hands, in other words be the ‘model Extraordinaire’ and opportunities will coming knocking at your door step.

5. Get a Publicist

This is someone who oversees your public image and manages all your media relations. They also can coordinate publicity events such as meet and greet.

6. Work on leaving a Legacy

Start a project, something that the world will always remember you for.