Networking: The Name of the Game

The name of the game in the modeling business (or any business, for that matter) is networking. If you’re not meeting the right people, then you’re missing opportunities to get work.

Sure it’s important to mail your comp cards, headshots, and resumes to photographers, agencies, and clients, but I have a better suggestion that can get you noticed if you’ve got the goods.

I recommend attending the top two fitness events we have here in the U.S. — The Arnold Classic and The Mr. Olympia. Between these two shows, nearly every photographer, supplement manufacturer, magazine publisher, and talent scout will be looking to find you! I know for a fact that the big magazines are constantly scouring the crowds for fresh faces and awesome bodies. Scouts are lurking in anonymity, waiting to pounce on the next fitness superstars!

Both The Arnold Classic and The Mr. Olympia events have huge trade shows where companies feature the latest exercise equipment, supplements, clothing, and accessories. If you’re an aspiring fitness model, you should hang around the booths of the companies you’re interested in working for, strike up casual conversations with the people running the booths, and begin to work your magic. Be sure to wear something tasteful that shows off your physique, but be careful not to go over the top. It’s sometimes a turn-off when people try too hard to get noticed.

If you’ve got what it takes, it won’t be long before someone asks you if you’ve ever considered modeling. When the opportunity presents itself, hand out a professionally printed comp card that features your best shots. You should have an incredible head shot on the front, and three or four pictures on the back that show your body, a casual look, and something a bit more stylish.

The Arnold Classic and The Mr. Olympia are the granddaddies of all the fitness expos, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention MuscleMania and Fitness America — that’s where I landed my first Muscle & Fitness cover!

The bottom line is this — you’re going to have to put yourself in front of the right people to make it in this industry, and you get the most bang for the buck at the better fitness events. You may have to purchase a plane ticket, buy some new clothes, print up some comp cards, and get in the best shape of your life, but these are all sacrifices that have paid off for many successful fitness models.

I can only speak for myself on this, but I still make those sacrifices. Wherever I am, all year round, I want to be ready to work on the spot! And if you think about it, being in shape and meeting great people is hardly a sacrifice.

So start busting your butt in the gym and make some travel arrangements, because The Arnold Classic is right around the corner! If you show up, stop by my booth and let me know that this article inspired you to expand your network in the fitness industry.