It's tough being a model. From the outside looking in, the life of a model seems a dizzying whirl of glamor, sophistication, and luxury. However, anyone with any experience of the industry knows that behind the smokes and mirrors, there lies a hugely competitive world, which does not favor those who aren't cut out for hard work or rejection. 

Don't be mistaken; being a model is fun, and it's a great career, but to get the most out of what in essence is a hugely rewarding occupation, it's handy to familiarize yourself with some tips and pointers from those who have been there and done it already. Model Katia Jundi knows a thing or two about life on the catwalk and has kindly agreed to share some of her best advice with aspiring models out there. Over to Katia:

Keep It Together 

One of the key elements to being successful in any field is possessing immaculate organizational skills, and modeling is no different. Modeling is an industry that grants young people an astonishing amount of freedom, but with great freedom comes great responsibility. When you're far from home and have a demanding schedule to keep, it's important to stay organized and disciplined. Ensure you eat well, sleep well, and exercise regularly. Have fun by all means but stay professional at all times, because clients and agencies are always impressed by anyone who shows a maturity beyond their years.  

Use Your Head

Many people make the mistake that modeling revolves solely on how you look. It doesn't! Obviously, having a unique look is vitally important, but in many ways, it's just the base from which everything else is built. You've got to know how to create a great first impression in this business, and that is all dependent upon your personality and how you conduct yourself. True beauty shines from within. To educate and develop yourself as a person, and you'll be surprised by the positive effects it will have on your modeling career. 

Remember It's A Business 

So many aspiring models get carried away by the first flush of success that they forget modeling is a business, and like any business, the same rules apply. You can make huge amounts of money on modeling in a relatively short space of time, but you can also spend huge amounts in the blink of an eye if you're not prudent with your budgeting. There's no guarantee in modeling where the next job is going to come from, so budget accordingly and make sure you have enough money to see you through from contract to contract.

Networking Is Key  

Meeting and greeting are essential in any field, but in modeling, it's the lifeblood of the business. Don't be afraid to knock on doors and do a little cold calling when you're starting out. A faint heart never won a fair lady, and neither did it land a lucrative modeling contract. As a model, you need to get used to life as a globetrotter, so when you travel, try to learn new languages, study local customs, and make new friends. The more people you know, the wider your potential job market becomes.

It's Always Professional, Never Personal 

The most important advice I can give to any aspiring model is to develop a thick skin. For every job you land, they'll be a handful of others that you won't. If you're not careful, this level of rejection can knock your confidence and damage your self-esteem. Don't let it. It is not personal. The client just didn't feel you represented what they were looking for. It's essential for any model to know their own worth and not be at the mercy of the opinions of others. When you truly value yourself as a model and human-being, it is priceless.