Image consultants work together with people on their appearance, behavior and communication. Professional consultants offer their help to improve wardrobe, makeup, communication, body language and much more. Depending on where you live, you can offer services to executives, politicians, TV personalities, job seekers, mothers, busy professionals, beauty queens and all those looking for an injection of confidence. There is no need for specific education but image consultant course certifications are highly recommended. In this profession you must be an entrepreneur with knowledge of marketing and how to manage your business. Find out how to become an image consultant with this article.
Steps
Step 1. Gain work experience in a company or in the fashion and entertainment industry
Having experience in any of these areas is useful for having a career as an image consultant.
- I work in marketing. Doing image consultancy is like developing a brand. In fact, the image reflects the self-confidence and identity that your client would like to develop in society.
- I work in fashion. An important part of being a consultant is being a fashion stylist. Having experience as a stylist, assistant, blogger or executive will help you have the credentials to create a new wardrobe.
- I work in the business world. Having attended a business school, having your own company, working for a multinational or for the entertainment world will help you in your work. You should have a broad understanding of the corporate culture.
- I work in an employment agency or as a human resources officer. These sectors will help you give advice to job seekers.
Step 2. Become a member of a professional association such as AICI (Association of Image Consultants International)
You will have access to courses, information, conferences and the database of image consultants.
Step 3. Sign up for a training course
You can start with online lessons provided by image consulting companies and move on to a certified program from AICI or another organization. In an industry without a governing body, certifications can strengthen your credentials.
Step 4. Find an entry level job or have a mentor follow you
Search the ads for image consultants and offer to work for free to learn the secrets of the trade. It is advisable to start outside your area so you will not be seen as a competitor by your mentor.
Step 5. Decide who your target audience will be and what kind of services you will offer
You should choose whether to work in the entertainment industry, for companies that offer image courses for their executives, or in another niche market. Develop your "recipe for success" in the profession to start marketing yourself in this industry.
Step 6. Create a business plan
Any consulting work should be planned for at least 5 years, so that you can invest in startup costs, start a marketing plan, and plan for business growth. Present the documents to your accountant.
Step 7. Consider starting part-time
It can take anywhere from 1 to 5 years to build a customer base to be able to work full time. You can offer image consulting services after work or on weekends until you have a large enough clientele.
Step 8. Start collaborating with makeup artists, hairdressers, event planners, companies, stylists and other professionals
Recommend their services to your customers in exchange for a referral fee.
Step 9. Invest in information and marketing material
With a professional website, business cards and price flyers you can be recognized as an expert. Create a searchable folder with your customers' success stories.
When it starts growing and earning more, invest the money in your business, such as buying a video camera, virtual makeover software, or other items that customers can control at home. If you are turning to companies to consult with executives, you could take a course to develop your presentation skills
Advice
- AICI suggests trying image consultancy by volunteering for an employment center in your area. Offer to help job seekers dress appropriately for an interview, be more confident and answer questions in a job interview.
- Look for some free sites with tips that can help you get started in this profession.
