How to Stand Out in a Competitive Industry: Tips for Models and Influencers

BRIDGE Influencer Linsey Luong

BRIDGE Model and Influencer Khrystyana

BRIDGE Model, Mia Min 

• Embrace Your Unique Qualities: Whether it’s your look, your story, or your interests, lean into what makes you different. Don't try to fit into a mold—celebrate the qualities that make you one-of-a-kind. For example, some influencers make their mark by being unapologetically quirky, while others shine by sharing their expertise on niche topics.
• Consistent Messaging: Your brand should reflect a clear, consistent message across all platforms. This includes the type of content you create, how you engage with your audience, and the values you stand for. Stay consistent with your voice, aesthetics, and personality to build a recognizable identity.
• Visual Identity: For models, your look is often the first thing that gets attention, so make sure it represents you authentically. Consider working with a photographer or stylist to curate a signature style that speaks to your personal brand, whether that’s editorial, commercial, or lifestyle-based. Influencers should aim for a cohesive visual style, especially on platforms like Instagram, to make their profiles visually appealing.

BRIDGE Influencer, Handsomegirly for UGG

• Invest in Quality: Whether you're working with a professional photographer for your modeling portfolio or creating content for your social media, invest in good equipment or work with experienced professionals to ensure your visuals stand out. High-quality photos and videos will make a lasting impact on potential collaborators and audiences.
• Be Creative and Innovative: Regularly push yourself to think outside the box with your content. Experiment with different formats (like behind-the-scenes looks, tutorials, or storytelling), and find ways to surprise and engage your audience. As a model, you can experiment with creative poses, locations, and lighting. As an influencer, try experimenting with new content formats like live streaming, interactive polls, or collaborations with other influencers.

BRIDGE Model and Influencer Jake Kneesh x Sofialigeros

• Be Active and Responsive: It’s essential to engage with your followers. Respond to comments, engage in conversations, and show appreciation for your audience's support. This builds trust and loyalty, which leads to higher engagement rates. Models, even though they may post less frequently, can engage with their followers through Stories or comment sections, showing their personalities.
• Collaborate with Others: Collaboration is an excellent way to expand your reach and connect with new audiences. Whether you're teaming up with another influencer on a campaign or working with a fellow model on a photoshoot, collaborations increase visibility and open doors to new opportunities. Look for like-minded creators or brands whose values align with yours.
• Create a Consistent Posting Schedule: Being consistent with your posts keeps you top of mind for your audience. Whether it’s once a day or three times a week, consistency builds momentum and creates anticipation for your content.

BRIDGE Model and Influencer Paige Pilgrim

• Instagram: Utilize all of Instagram's features, such as Stories, Reels, and IGTV, to engage with your audience in a variety of ways. Reels, in particular, have become a great way to showcase your creativity and reach new followers through Instagram’s algorithm.
• TikTok: The short-video format on TikTok allows influencers and models to show their personality in a fun, dynamic way. Embrace the viral nature of TikTok trends, but also experiment with original ideas that reflect your personal style.
• YouTube: If you’re an influencer with a lot to say, YouTube is an excellent platform to build a loyal following. Create long-form content that allows you to dive deep into topics you care about—whether it’s tutorials, day-in-the-life videos, or behind-the-scenes footage.
• LinkedIn: If you’re looking to build a more professional brand, LinkedIn can be a great platform to showcase your modeling career, highlight your collaborations, and network with industry professionals.

BRIDGE Model and Influencer Rachel Peru

• Be Transparent: If you’re promoting products, be transparent with your audience. Only work with brands that align with your values and genuinely resonate with your personal brand. Audiences can quickly spot disingenuous promotions, and that can hurt your credibility and reputation.
• Share Personal Stories: Both models and influencers can benefit from showing vulnerability and sharing personal stories. Whether it’s overcoming a challenge or celebrating a victory, sharing your journey allows your audience to connect with you on a deeper level.
• Don’t Follow the Crowd: While trends are fun to participate in, don’t feel the need to follow them blindly. Being yourself, rather than imitating someone else, will help you cultivate a unique space in the industry that’s all your own.

BRIDGE Talents Kaizer, Seohee Lee and Herbie Townsend at Wolf & Badger LFW Event

• Workshops and Training: Models can benefit from training in areas like posing, runway walks, and acting, while influencers might focus on enhancing their skills in content creation, photography, and digital marketing.
• Network: Attend industry events, fashion shows, and influencer meetups to expand your network. Building relationships with fellow talent, photographers, stylists, and brands can open up new opportunities and collaborations.