Elena Carriere: She has long surpassed her former "GNTM" colleagues
Young, beautiful and successful: Elena Carrière (22). The native of Hamburg became known in 2016 through the model show "Germany's Next Top Model". At the time, she only finished second, which did not detract from her career. On the contrary, today she is not only an Instagram star with almost half a million followers, but is also in demand internationally as a model. Currently she is even under contract with the top agency Metropolitan Models. In the interview on the sidelines of the Nespresso Vertuo Launch Party, she talks about her personal coffee preferences, her fast-paced career and how she deals with negative headlines.
In terms of career, it could not be better for you. They have managed to be under contract with the top international agency Metropolitan Models. The agency boss had discovered then Claudia Schiffer. What kind of a feeling is this?
Elena Carrière: Of course it's a motivating feeling to finally be seen as a professional model in another country, and then by one of the top agents in the country! I'm really looking forward to working with the Paris agency.
You are here today at the Nespresso Vertuo launch event - how do you drink your own coffee?
Carrière: I'm a big lover of coffee and as a morning grouch I can not do anything with small cup sizes. When I first held the big cup of coffee with the mega-crema at the launch party, I was really impressed. I can absolutely understand that this coffee system is just such a hype - especially here in Berlin. Coffee is a total trend drink in Berlin. At every corner you will find coffee shops - without coffee nothing works here. And trends are always first discovered in Berlin. It's clear that this is going on. And then also this huge pot of coffee! I must confess: I too am already a big fan.
Keyword Success: What do you have what many of your former "GNTM" colleagues do not have? How do you explain your success?
Carrière: I would never comment negatively on my ex-colleagues or portray myself better than them. I just think it's a lot to do with luck, immense discipline, the market and not least a very good management - that also shows you new ways. Then you see what you can do in the end!
How much of your current success did you owe GNTM, would you retroactively join again?
Carrière: Personally, I never regret anything. Of course, I would do it again. But this time maybe with a different, more conscious approach! The program has allowed me - and many others - to kick off this industry. I was just trying to use it!
You not only work successfully as a model, but also as an influencer. Incredible 476,000 fans follow you on Instagram. How exhausting is it for you to have to constantly offer your followers something?
Carrière: Of course, it also takes power to operate such a large platform, but you do not do it in vain. I get a tremendous amount of energy back when I hear that I can reach, inspire or even motivate only 1 percent of people who follow me. I think it's great to be able to share your values and experiences in such a way as to build a strong community around you!
On some posts you show up very freely. Where are your taboos in terms of posting?
Carrière: I have become quite open with my body through the industry regarding photos or shootings; My postings are more about customers, products or moral values that I can not stand behind. Or if I feel like I could hurt others or get them thinking silly.
How important is the exchange with your fans?
Carrière: I'm always trying to find the time to respond to personal messages as well. It's just really hard to come after! I do my best, but unfortunately I can not do it all in terms of time and energy.
How do you deal with negative feedback? Take nasty comments to heart?
Carrière: In fact, I have never been a negative commenter or have generally been hurt or disappointed. I always think, if you do not like what you see here, do not look at it. My channel is authentically and genuinely guided, everyone who follows me should know who and how I am. And if that does not fit, that should not follow me either.
What would you advise young people who want to become influencers?
Carrière: I would advise them to be prepared for something else in life, first and foremost.The industry is fast paced and no one knows how long Instagram will go on ... I think everyone should do what he likes, and if he wants to share it and make it public, and inspire other people: Jackpot! Perfect way to the influencer!
