How to Ace an Interview with a Modeling Agency

An example of the inside of a modeling agency.

So you've taken a chance and went to your local modeling agency and snagged an interview! Sweet! BUT the challenge doesn't stop there. The only way to get that much-desired contact is to wow the agency staff during your interview.

Things You'll Need

• Interview Date & Time
• Snapshots
• Form Fitting Jeans
• Shoes with Heel
• Solid Colored Shirt/Tank Top or Baby Tee
• Charisma
• Confidence

Instructions

1. Getting an interview with a modeling agency is a very exciting yet nerve-wracking event. However, it's going to take a level head and poise to ace the interview. Leave the giggles, immaturity and giddiness at the door.

2. 

   First thing's first: you've got to make sure you have everything you need. Make sure to bring everything the agency asks you to bring. If you already have a date and time set, prepare your materials and clothes before then so that you aren't rushing last minute, which will increase your odds of forgetting something important. Make a checklist if you need to.

3. 

   Get together your snapshots if they ask you to bring them. Remember, if they don't ask for professional photos then don't fret about getting them. All it takes is a digital camera and a parent or friend to help you take the right pictures. If you aren't sure what kind to take, ask the agency or look up the submission info on the website. They may end up taking your photo when you get there as well if they haven't already.

4. 

   Interviewing with a modeling agency isn't quite like going in for a regular job interview. There is no need to wear a suit or business apparel. Most agencies will request that you come casual. This can be as simple as a pair of form-fitting jeans, shoes with a heel on them (2-3 inches is ideal) and a top that complements your skin tone. Guys should stick to a clean and nice pair of jeans or khakis, clean shoes (sneakers or boots, no dress shoes), and a button-up shirt or t-shirt that is slightly form-fitting. Stay away from logos, brand names, words and distracting patterns.

5. 

   Wear your hair how you normally would. Just make sure it is out of your face. Wear little to no makeup.

6. Be sure to arrive early. In the modeling business, it helps to follow the popular saying, "If you're early, you're on time. If you're on time, you're late!" Allow plenty of time for parking, following driving directions, traffic, getting lost, and the millions of other reasons you could end up being late.

7. Practice good posture. Stand up straight, don't slouch. When you walk, walk gracefully and keep your head up. Good body language will show that you are happy, confident and eager to be there. Give a good, firm handshake and make eye contact. Greet each person with a genuine smile.

8. 

   It may be hard but don't gawk in awe when you step inside. Take a look and observe your surroundings but don't get overly excited, jump up and down and act like a kid in a candy store. At this point, you need to focus on being professional.

9. When you sit down with the agency, it will be somewhat informal. When you sit down, make sure you aren't slouching. Avoid fidgeting and take deep breaths. It's okay to be nervous but keep that to yourself. Show personality, enthusiasm and energy.

10. As the agency asks you questions, take a second to think about the question before you answer. Give honest answers and avoid babbling. Keep your answers concise and straight to the point. Speak from your heart and do it with a smile. Agencies love models that are bubbly, warm and inviting.

11. 

    If they ask you to do a runway walk, don't be nervous. Do your walk how you've practiced at home. They aren't expecting you to be a pro at it...they simply want to see how your body moves when you walk. They will provide feedback. You will be the only one in the room with the agency when you do this so you won't be walking with other models.

12. Let them know why you are eager to become a model and why you deserve to be represented by them. Emphasize your strengths.

13. After your interview, be sure to shake hands with each person present and thank them for their time. They'll let you know if they'll be in touch soon or give you further feedback. Go home and pat yourself on the back for a job well done and cross your fingers!

Tips & Warnings

• If you are under 18, you will need to have a parent or guardian over the age of 21 accompany you. This person must have the legal authority to go over paperwork and deal with signatures. No agency will see an aspiring underage model without the presence of a parent or guardian.

• Do not constantly call the agency with questions. If you are nervous, write out a list of questions and see if you can find the answers on their website first.

• If the agency says they will call you within a certain amount of time, don't take it too literally. Agencies are super busy and it's easy for them to fall behind and/or forget about their promises. Wait a day or two past the time frame given and then give them a call or drop an email to inquire.

• Realize that in the interview the agency is the head honcho. Do not carry yourself as a "know it all." Stick to the questions they ask and showcase yourself in a way that is flattering and professional. This isn't the time to brag about how many people say you're so beautiful and should be a model and that you're sure you'll be the next Giselle.