Employment of models is projected to show little or no change from 2014 to 2024.
Rising retail sales, particularly online and e-commerce sales, will encourage businesses to increase their digital advertising and marketing budgets. Models will be needed for online publications, digital advertisements, and websites to reach out to these potential customers. Although models will still be needed to promote products in print advertisements and catalogs, businesses have begun shifting away from this traditional form of advertising.
Increasing consumer confidence and spending also may encourage businesses to introduce new advertising campaigns and product launches. These ventures will require models to promote and market products in stores, television commercials, and fashion shows.
However, less expensive digital and social media options are allowing companies to interact and build relationships with customers in new ways. Companies can now promote their products and brands directly to consumers. This direct promotion will lessen the need for professional models or large-scale advertising campaigns.
In addition, businesses may cut back on their advertising budgets during economic downturns, making them less likely to develop new advertising campaigns or hire models.
Job Prospects
Many people are drawn to this occupation because of its glamour and potential for fame. However, no education, training, or work experience is required to enter the occupation, so many applicants will be competing for very few job openings.
Although more jobs may be available in large cities such as New York and Los Angeles, competition for these jobs is expected to be very strong. Aspiring models may have the best job opportunities in smaller cities, working for smaller modeling agencies and local clients and businesses.
Age, weight, and height requirements are typically less rigid for models appearing in commercials and advertisements than for those looking to become runway or fashion models.
In addition, as the U.S. population becomes increasingly diverse and businesses become more globalized, demand for racially and ethnically diverse models will likely increase.
Models
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Total, all occupations
7%
Sales and related occupations
5%
Models
0%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program