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How to Become a QVC Model

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Getting a modeling job on the QVC shopping channel can make millions of the channel's die-hard fans familiar with your face. QVC models don't get their gigs through the channel, though; QVC works through modeling and talent agencies to find new faces. If you're interested in QVC presenter jobs or in hosting, apply directly to the channel for the chance to appear.

Becoming QVC Models

If modeling's your game, signing with an agency is one path to going on-air with QVC. The first step is the same as any other model: you need a first-rate portfolio of photos showcasing your abilities. The portfolio is often the first thing agencies or potential clients look at. The photos must be professional, high quality images, showcasing you in a variety of poses and situations. Place the best photos on a hard-copy hand-out - a "comp card" in modeling-speak - or on your website. Once you start sending out your portfolio, don't just sit and wait for the calls to come in. Network like crazy in the industry and promote yourself on social media.

If you prefer going freelance to signing with an agency, you'll still need a portfolio. Aspiring QVC models will need to check out modeling job sites and look for opportunities with the channel that they qualify for. For example, one listing by a hair-coloring company asked for female models, from age 35 to 55, with at least 50 percent gray hair. Models have to agree to use only the company's hair-care and coloring products for the duration of the job.

Become a New QVC Presenter

QVC presenters and hosts have a more demanding role, as they actively promote the products QVC sells. Unlike models, you can apply directly to QVC for a shot at the job. The channel recommends anyone looking for QVC host jobs submit a letter of interest, resume and photos by email. If there's an opening for a new QVC presenter or host and you seem qualified, you may be invited to audition.

The job has changed since the channel first launched. Hosts don't simply pitch you on the joys of some amazing product. More usually they sit down with a guest presenter and engage in a kind of online interview about the product. To become a presenter you should have a strong background in the industry related to the product; live within two hours of the channel's Pennsylvania studio; and be ready go to on the air at any time, 24/7.

To apply for QVC presenter jobs, you'll need to shoot an audition video. QVC recommends you shoot the video against a solid wall without windows or backlights. Begin with a 30 second intro explaining why you're qualified. Then talk about the product. Don't try to sell, just explain what the product does, why it's special and the benefits buyers will get from using it. Talk as if you were giving a recommendation to a good friend. When you're finished, post the video to YouTube or Vimeo and send QVC the link along with you resume.

QVC hosts will be asked to make an in-studio audition, if they look promising. This typically involves being given something to sell, whether it's handbags or a line of novelty clocks. Then you have to sound off as to why the product you're representing is worth buying, without coming off like a pushy salesperson. You can't predict what the channel executives will ask you to sell, but you can prepare by practicing selling a variety of items. Your English should be smooth and confident, without dropping "like" or "awesome!' into every sentence. Your clothes should be current, but they should be geared to being approachable more than being sexy. If the audience thinks of you as a friend they can trust, you're doing it right.

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Warnings
  • The modeling industry is rife with frauds of all sorts. When taking classes, ensure the instructors have successful modeling experience and when selecting an agent, be wary of anyone requiring you to foot any bills up front to secure your modeling jobs. Often one major scam in the modeling industry consists of agents demanding models to use in house photographers and videographers to put together a portfolio, then demanding the model to pay unusually high fees for the portfolio. Once the fee is paid, a portfolio may never materialize and if so, is usually not worthy of consideration by groups seeking models. Of course, no jobs materialize either, because the intention was to take your money in the first place, not secure your placement for a modeling contract.
Writer

Over the course of his career, Fraser Sherman has reported on local governments, written about how to start a business and profiled professionals in a variety of career fields.. He lives in Durham NC with his awesome wife and two wonderful dogs. His website is frasersherman.com

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