Professional Development

America’s Next Top Model can teach us about… business?

Who knew modeling was such hard work? Seriously, I thought you just showed up , tilted your head down and stared ahead. But, I’ve learned from America’s Next Top Model, it’s so much more. (If you haven’t seen it, don’t knock it until you watch it.) It’s actually hard work, and it’s not just about being pretty. It’s about fashion, taking risks, and making a statement. And, believe it or not, I think it can teach us a few things about the business world.

1. Fake it.
Every week the young women in the competition stand before the judges and have their work (their “pictures”) judged. No doubt this would be extremely intimidating. It’s not unlike a business review or even a business meeting. Just like in business, the girls who do the best are the ones who give it their or, at the very least, “fake it.”

The girls who are just so-so, the ones the judges could easily let go, fall into two categories:
a. Those who are unsure of themselves saying things like, “I’m not sure I should even be in this competition.
b. Those who fake it. The ones who, just as unsure of themselves as the first group, say things like “I belong here. I am America’s Next Top Model.”

Let’s be honest. Knowing nothing else about these women, which one would you keep in the competition?

2. Dress is important.
Ok. ANTM is a modeling competition, so of course dress important. But even when the girls aren’t in photo shoots, they are expected to “dress like models.” Basically, we all have to dress the part we want to play. Want to be a model, don’t dress “mall” as Tyra might say. Want to be a VP, don’t dress “assistant.”

Like it or not, people (including your boss or future boss) do pay attention to the way you dress. It’s important you dress the part you want play.

3. You don’t have to be friends with everyone.
Like any reality show, these young women usually are involved in some kind of personality confict. Here’s the deal: Not everyone will like you - especially as you try to climb the corporate ladder. I’m not advocating being mean or actually fighting with people (no doubt those girls can get vicious).

I am simply saying that not everyone will like you as you strive to better yourself. And, let’s face it, you may not like everyone either. You have to be civil with everyone, but you certainly don’t have to be friends with everyone.

4. Always show respect.
Those judges do not like it when the contestants talk back, interrupt them or ignore them. They expect the utmost respect from each girl - or else they go home. The same can be said for the work world. You don’t have to bow down or anything (and you definitely shouldn’t put up with anything unethical or unlawful). You should certainly speak your mind, but make sure it’s in a respectful, professional manner, or you ,too, may find yourself back at home.

5. Confidence is key.
This is related back to my first point of “Fake it” in that we should always go for the prize. but faking it will only get you so far. You really have to “have it” to truly get ahead. Read. Learn. Grow. And, then show ‘em that you do, in fact, have it.