Many people, if asked to list their dream jobs, put somewhere on the list that they would like to become a model. But what exactly does it take to become a model, and can just anyone do it? Depending on the kind of model you want to become, you may need to be born with a specific look, but you may also be able to devote yourself to hard work and making your way into the industry. A few basic steps can help you get started in the right direction.

First of all, it’s important to recognize that becoming a model is incredibly difficult, and the world of modeling is competitive and cutthroat. Many people who want to become a model aren’t honest to themselves in the beginning about just how difficult it will be, and when things get rough they simply give up and throw in the towel. If you truly want to become a model, you need to commit yourself to some trying times, some failures, and some difficult sacrifices.

Virtually all models have some traits in common, as well. Thankfully, these are features that almost anyone can work on, even if it is a bit more difficult for some than others. Models almost always have features of health, so it’s important for you to try to keep your body looking as healthy as possible. Try to keep your hair in excellent health, your skin clear and fresh, and your body in good shape. Keep in mind that keeping your body in shape doesn’t mean keeping it thin, as there are opportunities for plus-size models or simply models with more natural and curvaceous body types.

The majority of modeling jobs, however, are for people with bodies that adhere more closely to societal standards of beauty. At the very least, this tends to mean bodies that are in good physical shape, which means you will want to work out fairly regularly, and if you can afford it get a personal trainer of some sort. Men, especially, will need to tone their muscles to increase definition for most jobs, and many jobs require a fair amount of muscle mass as well.

Figure out what sort of jobs your body type is suited for, before you begin trying to become a model, as this will help you focus your energies better. Women who are on the taller side, and are naturally skinny with small breasts, may be ideally suited for catwalk modeling. Women with larger breasts and thinner hips may be better suited for underwear modeling. More curvaceous women may be ideally suited to modeling so-called plus-sized clothing. Men who are toned but without a great deal of muscle mass may be ideal for underwear modeling, while men with larger muscle mass may be better suited for more general advertising modeling. And both men and women who have a particularly striking extremity, such as perfect hands or feet, may find the best fit to be in one of these niche modeling markets.

Once you know what type of model you want to become, it’s time to get some photos taken. Make sure you’re at your best, and hire a reputable professional, even if it costs a bit more. These are your calling cards, and often will make or break getting a callback. Then start getting your name out there, first by finding a good agency to represent you. There are a number of directories which will let you know which agencies are reputable, and it’s important to be on the lookout for scam artists taking advantage of your desire to become a model.

Finally, you’ll start showing up to auditions, or to small shoots. Treat each shoot with a full measure of professionalism, as reputation will make or break you in the long run. Be prepared for disappointment and problems, but persevere with a good attitude and a desire to succeed, and ultimately you will realize your dream of becoming a model.