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Did you see what they posted?
Social networks have become a democratic and universal tool. In fashion, beauty and lifestyle, they are also essential. Still, their use has as many advantages as it does dangers and can turn you into a victim of cyberbullying or a cringe-worthy queen overnight.
They are entertaining, we use them to showcase our work, to see what our crush is up to, to laugh, to get excited, to learn and to follow the latest trends. We are all aware of social networks, but how can we use them responsibly?
Who's that girl?
Things have changed. We've replaced the fairy-tale story of a talent scout seeing someone on the street (or at a concert, or going to a casting with a friend, or...) approaching them and offering them the chance to become a model with the fairy-tale story of a talent scout sneaking into someone’s DMs and offering to meet them. Instagram is a goldmine for attractive faces, talent, expressiveness and people with something to say. If you're interested in being a part of this scene, you must control your exposure and showcase what makes you different. We are looking for people with more to offer than a standard, pretty, white, blue-eyed face. We want to show the world that true beauty lies in diversity. If you've made it this far, you're on the right track because we could be a good match, but we can't help but give you some tips on how to use your social media responsibly and protect yourself:
1. Be a street smart. If you get an offer for an interview, google the name of the professional and their agency like there's no tomorrow. Have someone you trust go to the first meeting with you.
2. Don't send nudes. A professional will never ask you to do that.
3. Don't give out any private information that isn't essential right off the bat. Your email or phone number is more than enough.
I'm an influencer
If you have many followers and brands are already knocking on your door, congratulations: you are an influencer. Brands have been able to spot very early on how people who move crowds and generate high engagement can help them and have been quick to capitalise on it. Unfortunately, as much as we are excited to participate in dinners and events or to be given products we love, we must consider other things. For example, there is also a pay gap among influencers. Check Influencer Pay Gap, an account where stories are shared anonymously. In addition to racial bias, it has brought to light the pay gap for disabled and LGBTQ+ influencers. Be aware of these situations before you sign contracts, and always seek legal advice!
Be good. Do good.
You've surely seen how Tom Holland or Selena Gomez have either entirely or intermittently stepped away from social media to protect their mental health. We understand this is a lot easier to do when you have a well-established career and don’t have to make a name for yourself, but remember: nothing is more important than your health. Holland and Gomez are an example of social media's positive influence. By showing their vulnerability, they have made it easier for many more people to recognise the symptoms of a possible mental health problem. Like them, many other influencers and celebrities are taking up causes to highlight racial, sexual, gender or disability discrimination. If you want to do good, choose the cause you care about the most (animal advocacy, ecology, the body-positive movement...), be well-informed, and make sure you can easily explain why that particular issue is so important to you. Remember that sometimes the best way to advocate for a cause is to listen carefully to others before you speak out –lest you start singing Imagine in the middle of a pandemic.
