Overview
As a model you are in control of your own career and how much money you make. Therefore, you must have the talents of a successful business executive as well as having a look that makes you marketable in the modeling industry. Talent isn't always about something you can do on camera, it's about the skills you have to manage your own career. If you don't have the skills to look out for your own best interests, you will have to rely on others who may or may not have your success as their biggest concern.
Professionalism
As a model, you will deal with a daily schedule and requirements that others place upon you. You must be at locations on time, and follow directions given to you by your employers accurately. You also must address your employers with respect and interact with them in a professional way to improve your chance to get additional assignments from that employer.
Time Management
If you are modeling and have another job or are still in school, time management is extremely important. Modeling shoots can take a lot of time out of your busy day, and this means you must schedule your modeling and non-modeling activities and stick to that schedule. Falling just slightly behind will not only make you late for activities but add stress to your daily life and result in others viewing you as hard to deal with.
Communication
In modeling, you need to be able to communicate with your employers efficiently and find out exactly what they want. Listen to your employers so you know what is expected of you, and ask questions about anything you are not clear on in the directions they give you.
Networking
You might want to hire an agent to help you get jobs, but in the end you can be your best agent even if you have one that works for you. Be approachable at modeling assignments and talk with both your employer and the other models. Find out what they know about other work in the modeling industry that might be available in your area. If you are well liked by others in the industry, you will be remembered and recommended for other jobs that are available.
Discipline
Remember, your looks are part of your job. You must do everything in your power to maintain your appearance. It can be tough to turn down that extra piece of cake when everyone else is having one, or eating something you know makes your complexion break out, but these decisions influence the money you make. It might be fun to go out drinking all night with your friends and bar hopping, but keep in mind that if it affects your modeling work the next morning it isn't worth it. It also might cost you future jobs and not just the next day's paycheck.
