Well hello there, aspiring models! Are you ready to strut your stuff and make it big in the model world? If so, you’re probably already aware that having the right Model Coach can make all the difference (if you even knew there was such a thing!?).
With so many model opportunities out there (including the snake oil types too), how do you choose the one that’s right for you? Fear not my loves because I’m here to spill the tea on all the tips you need to know to find the perfect Model Coach – for you. Ladies, grab your heels, gentlemen, grab your white kicks or brogues, and let’s get started!
Hero image: Benny Russell Photography
Get to know me!
For transparency, please do your own due diligence to see if we’d be a great fit to work together. I’m an empath and believe you need to vibe with me as much as I need to vibe with you. You can read more about me here: ABOUT, view my press here: PRESS, and check out my socials here: INSTAGRAM and FACEBOOK. You can also check out more of my background with beauty pageants (competing and judging) in this article here: What Does a Pageant Judge Look For? Read about what my students are saying here: TESTIMONIALS.
Now that we’re introduced, let’s get into the good stuff.
Further Reading: 5 Reasons You Need a Model Coach
Choosing the right Model Coach is an important decision that can impact your model career – it could even make or break it.
Here are some tips to help you choose the right Model Coach, whether it be online or in person.
What Should I Look For In A Model Coach?
1. Look for experience
When choosing a Model Coach, it’s important to look for someone with extensive experience in the model industry (not just a person who’s done a few ‘time for print’ shoots). Look for a coach who has worked with models at various levels and where you have easy access to their students’ feedback and testimonials.
Further Reading: How Much Money Do Models Make?
2. Consider their specialty
Some model coaches specialise in specific areas of modelling, such as runway, print, or commercial modelling. Consider what type of modelling you want to pursue and look for a coach who has experience in that area.
Some common examples that I see in the industry are 1. Models who have an entire portfolio built in glamour and men’s magazine style shoots or 2. Models who have only spent years doing promotional work. Neither of these are negative examples of model work, however if you want to get into fashion, editorial or commercial modelling, you’ll need to find a coach with that background and experience.
3. Check their credentials
Look for a Model Coach who has the appropriate credentials, such as a trade or tertiary qualification (or several) in a relevant field, or certification from a reputable and well known organisation. Other examples to keep an eye out for is the press and media they have appeared and been published in – not just blogs. If you can’t find them through a simple search engine check, find another coach.
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4. Check their testimonials and references
Student and client testimonials should be easily found on their website, a third party platform (such as a Google Business Profile) or published to their social media channels. If you can’t locate it online, ask the Model Coach for references or student testimonials. If you feel the need to, contact those references to learn about their experience. Be mindful that everyone is unique and has a different set of goals to you. Take their feedback in context and as an overall guide for how you could be coached and what you’ll learn.
Be wary of ‘testimonials’ that are published with a first name and comment only. A reputable testimonial has all or a mix of 1. a students’ full name (unless a minor), 2. general location (eg. City, State or Country), 3. a profile photo, 4. a link to their social media (so you can verify they’re a real person, and also a real student).
5. Consider their coaching style
Different model coaches may have different coaching styles, so it’s important to find one that aligns with your learning style and personality. Some coaches may be more hands-on and direct, while others may take a more collaborative and supportive approach.
It’s important for you to feel safe and comfortable while you’re learning. You don’t want to be in the company of someone who makes you feel bad, uncomfortable, or that you’re not good enough. Clear and open communication between the both of you is key to a successful coaching relationship.
Further Reading: How to Become a Bikini Model
6. Consider how they talk about other industry professionals
You want to be coached by someone who YOU find qualified, educated, articulate and uplifting. If a person’s only claim to fame is a reference point of comparison where they are trying to show how much better they are than another person, it’s time to look elsewhere. Examples of this may sound like they’re bringing others down, degrading them, making derogatory comments about their physical appearance or unjustified negative comments about their business, and overall what you could describe as character assassination.
The exception to this rule is where a Model Coach is discussing examples of industry scammers or predators. In which case, expect to hear the hard truth about those people or businesses, and keep your guard up.
As a model it’s important for you to be in a constant state of self learning and personal growth. Working with more than one coach or mentor is perfectly acceptable throughout your career. One of the highest forms of confidence, self respect and security in business is when a Model Coach can refer other industry coaches to help you reach your goal. A true professional is not threatened by another professional. Secure, humble people are the professionals you want to get amongst.
Further Reading: How to Get a Job as a Model
7. Evaluate their fees
Model coaching fees can vary and it’s important to understand the costs upfront. Look for a Model Coach who is transparent about their fees and offers a fee structure that works for you. Be mindful that you get what you pay for. You want to learn for free? Expect to get what ‘free’ is worth. You want to learn from someone who knows what they’re talking about, save for the investment and come back when you’re ready. A quality Model Coach will also offer a certain amount of content and resources for free – make the most of that if you’re not yet in a financial position to afford a Model Coach.
Further Reading: How to Tell if a Model Agency or Opportunity is Legit
In exactly the same way you go to School and University to learn, so too is the mindset you need to have for getting into modelling. The more you learn and apply, the better your success rate will be. A Model Coach will fast track your career because they’ve done all the hard yards for you. By considering these factors, you can choose a Model Coach who can help you achieve your model goals and succeed in the industry.
Further Reading: 5 Reasons You Need a Model Coach
What do you think?
A Model Coach can be an invaluable resource for aspiring models. They can help you build confidence, develop a professional portfolio, learn industry standards, network with industry professionals, and navigate the model industry. If you’re serious about pursuing a career in modelling, investing in a Model Coach can be a smart choice and wise investment.
I wish you the success you work for and deserve!
Ps: This is a quality guide and I don’t mind you sharing it. I’d appreciate it if you follow standard professional etiquette and please quote + credit my content appropriately when you do:
Kate Heussler kateheussler.com | Instagram: @kateheussler Thank you!
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