10 Trade Show Modeling Tips for Getting Rehired: Little Things that Make a BIG Difference

Group of Trade Show Models

10 Trade Show Modeling Tips for Getting Rehired: Little Things that Make a BIG Difference

You’ve worked a handful of promotional events in the past and you are dying to be rehired for more. You’ve done everything right: made yourself available by frequently checking your phone for emails or missed calls, you’ve updated your model profile, you’ve done your research, and you’ve reached out to several agencies expressing your interest in working more frequently. But, alas, you’re still not working as many gigs as you’d like to be. So, what’s the deal here?

So often promotional models are told to focus on their responsibilities during the event- “Make sure you memorize this information”, “make sure you approach attendees” and “hand out promotional items”- that when they aren’t rehired for an event they assume that they did something wrong based on the event responsibilities. But in reality, it could be the smallest knit picky things that are hindering you from being rehired. In fact, they could make all the difference when it comes to getting rehired for a gig, agency, or client. With that being said, we are here to help you figure out what those little things are and to give you tips to combat them so you can be on your way to working as many events as possible.

Trade Show Modeling Tips for Getting Rehired

1.) Get a Manicure –

While it may seem like something so minuscule, it’s more than likely that your hands and nails will be seen quite often, so it’s important to make sure they are presentable. Having chipped nail polish or broken, unhealthy nails at a trade show does not give off a professional vibe. Instead, having a nice manicure (or at least your nails polished and trimmed) will make you look clean cut and put together. Not only will you look more professional, but manicures will enhance the health of your fingernails too! Win-Win.

2.) Take it Easy on the Perfume – 

It is 100% acceptable to smell nice during your event- in fact, it is encouraged in the modeling industry! However, let’s not get carried away. Not only can wearing too much perfume be distracting to attendees, but some of them may get a headache from the strong stench or they might actually be allergic to the smell. So, when it comes to perfumes and lotions – keep is simple. Your goal is to make a lasting impression and build a relationship with attendees, not make them run for the hills!

3.) Skip the Hangover – 

So you went out the night before your event and had a few too many margaritas with your friends. You wake up in the morning feeling like somebody hit you in the head with a hammer and your stomach is absolutely killing you. You get to your event and you think: “No one will notice I am hung over right?” Wrong. When you are hung over, not only does it make you feel groggy and lethargic, but research says it could also impair the way your brain retains and processes information. At a trade show or any other event, you may be asked to convey a wide range of information to attendees; and if your brain is not functioning as fast, you will not be on top of your game. So before you decide to head to the bar the night before an event; think again.

4.) Remove Piercings – 

In the trade show industry, it’s important to convey the most professional image of yourself no matter what event you are working. One piercing per ear is okay, but avoid wearing more earrings than that. It is also a good idea to avoid big, flashy earrings that could distract attendees. Beyond your ears, take out any extra piercings that you can. If this is not an option for you, be sure to make this clear to the agency and client before they hire you and ask them if it’s possible to keep them in. Always remember that you only have one chance to make a first impression on both the client and attendees at the show, so it’s important to be upfront and honest.

5.) Keep Your Phone Out of Sight – 

Not only is having your cell phone out during an event distracting, but it portrays the image that you are uninterested in the event. What’s worse is that the client may find it disrespectful and you may miss the opportunity to approach attendees if you are on your phone. If you want to take event photos or videos using your cell phone, ask the client first, and tell them your intentions. If they allow you to take photos, snap a few quick photos and then immediately store your phone away again. Your job is to generate leads and build lasting relationships with attendees. You are not being paid to check your Twitter feed or your best friends’ Instagram.

6.) Try Your Clothes on Before the Promotion –

We can’t stress how important this is! If the client has given you an outfit to wear for the event, don’t just assume it will fit you by looking at it. Try it on! Never wear something that makes you feel uncomfortable or something that just doesn’t fit you. By trying on your clothes before the event, you can notify the client and make adjustments as necessary. There’s nothing worse than panicking the morning of the trade show because your outfit doesn’t fit and you have nothing else to wear. You want to feel confident in your own skin at the event (and clients want you to look and feel good, too)!

7.) Be Flexible –

As you know trade shows can get a bit hectic and crazy at times and require you to go with the flow. So, if one little thing doesn’t go how you planned, keep going. If a client asks you to do something that you were not expecting, do it (as long as you are comfortable with it)! If the show lasts a little bit longer than you anticipated, stay. The client will appreciate your flexibility and ability to adapt to a changing environment.

8.) Don’t Go Overboard with Make-Up –

Of course wearing makeup to an event is important especially when you are trying to look extra-presentable that day. But, don’t go overboard. Make sure your makeup matches your skin tone and is rubbed in. If you are wearing eye makeup, use the appropriate colors. It is always better to veer on the conservative side with makeup instead of getting too wild (unless otherwise instructed by the client).

9.) Watch Your Language –

If you have a potty mouth (which many of us are guilty of at times), leave it at the door. Using vulgar language, even if it slips out by accident, shows unprofessionalism and will leave the client worried that you are going to slip again in front of attendees. You aren’t going earn respect or admiration when you have a trucker mouth.

10.) Smile –

You’ve heard the saying before: “happy girls are the prettiest” and this couldn’t be more accurate! No matter what the circumstance is, smile! Smile, even if you’re waiting for the show to start or waiting for attendees to walk by. Your smile will help to show attendees that you are friendly, inviting, and approachable and help you to make that great first impression for your client. Plus, happiness looks good on you, too!

There you have it; ten small tips that could make all the difference in getting rehired for promotional gigs. Although these may seem like minor or insignificant pointers, clients do notice them and they can absolutely make all the difference in your promotional modeling career. If you are interested in getting rehired for gigs, contact us today through our website! We would love to talk to you.