If you’re consistently applying for jobs but not getting booked, it’s not about luck or algorithms. Successful talent approach job hunting strategically. They understand what makes them stand out, how to position themselves, and what clients actually look for. Here’s how you can do the same.
Why You’re Not Getting Booked (And How to Fix It)
Many creators assume they just need to apply to more jobs, but real success comes from refining your approach. From understanding how brands think to strategically positioning yourself, these tactics will help you land more opportunities and grow your career.
1. Smart Talent Read Between the Lines
Most people read job listings at face value, but high-performing talent analyze them differently. They don’t just see what’s written—they look for underlying priorities and expectations.
What to do:
- Look at past bookings from the brand. What type of talent have they hired before? Do they prefer polished, professional content or casual, relatable storytelling? Align your approach with their previous choices.
- Spot hidden priorities. If a brand mentions "must be confident on camera," they don’t just want someone who films well; they need someone who can deliver effortlessly with minimal retakes. Make sure your portfolio reflects that confidence.
- Check for red flags. Vague job descriptions with unclear deliverables often signal low-paying or high-revision jobs. If the scope isn’t clear, it may not be worth your time.
Pro Tip: Reach out to talent who have worked with the brand before and ask about their experience. This helps you gauge realistic rates and expectations before applying.
2. Position Yourself Like High-Demand Talent (Even If You’re New)
The highest-paid talent don’t just list skills—they position themselves as a solution to a brand’s problem. Instead of describing what they do in generic terms, they highlight the value they bring.
What to do:
- Instead of saying, “I create engaging videos,” say, “I create short-form content that increases engagement by 30%+—ask me how.”
- Instead of saying, “I’m great at UGC,” say, “My recent UGC for [brand] got 200K views organically. Let’s create something that works for your audience.”
If you have no past bookings, showcase personal projects. A strong case study—such as, “Here’s how I’d create a scroll-stopping ad for [brand]”—can be just as effective as real client work.
3. Show, Don’t Tell—Your First Impression Happens in Five Seconds
Clients rarely read long bios or proposals in full. They skim. Winning their attention in the first few seconds is critical.
What to do:
- Use a one-liner hook in your bio, such as “I create luxury aesthetic content that makes brands money.”
- Put your strongest video at the top of your portfolio. The first three seconds should showcase your best work.
- Trim the fluff in proposals. Open with results, not introductions.
Pro Tip: To ensure clients watch your content, start videos with a subtle movement—like adjusting a prop or making direct eye contact. Studies show that motion in the first second captures attention faster.
4. Most Creators Struggle With Pricing—Here’s How to Fix It
Underpricing yourself leads to lower bookings. Overpricing without proof does the same. The key is to justify your rates effectively.
What to do:
- If you lack experience, add value instead of lowering your price. Offer multiple variations of a video or a fast turnaround time to make your proposal more appealing.
- Use anchoring in negotiations. Start with a higher rate and “compromise” to your real price. This makes clients feel like they’re getting a deal.
- If you’re not getting responses, pricing may not be the issue—your pitch likely is. Refine your messaging before assuming you need to adjust your rates.
Pro Tip: If you want to increase your rates, add a simple phrase like “Booked out last month” to your bio. Scarcity creates demand.
5. Most Creators Give Up Too Soon—Here’s When the Magic Happens
The biggest mistake most talent make is applying once and waiting. The best talent stay top of mind.
What to do:
- If a brand doesn’t reply, follow up in five days with a quick check-in.
- If a client shows interest but goes silent, send a “final spot reminder” to create urgency.
- If you get rejected, ask for feedback and reapply in a few months. Many brands rehire talent after seeing their growth.
Pro Tip: Reapplying after three months often results in a different outcome. Brands remember persistence, especially when they see improvement in your portfolio.
The Talent Who Get Booked Do This Differently
Getting booked isn’t about being the absolute best—it’s about being the best at showcasing your value. By understanding how brands hire, refining your messaging, and strategically positioning yourself, you can transform missed opportunities into consistent bookings.
Ready to take control of your career? Browse upcoming jobs on The Right Fit.
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