Image Consultant
Job Description:Image consultants advise individuals and companies on their appearance, and how to make an impact.
Job Category:What you will do:
You’ll work with people in politics, retail, and public and private companies.
You could also work with the media, contributing to television and radio programmes, and to articles in the local, national and specialist press.
You’ll advise private individuals on:
- how to dress in colours that suit them
- clothes, make-up and hair that will improve their look
- how to organise their wardrobe space
- styling for events like weddings or business meetings
- how to present themselves in public
You’ll advise corporate clients on:
- how to deliver training workshops
- how to use voice and body language in business situations
- personal branding and appearance
- how to understand brand and corporate cultures
- business etiquette, including spoken and written communication skills
You’ll develop a network of partners, including hair stylists, make-up artists and voice coaches, that you’ll refer your clients to.
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of media production and communication
- knowledge of English language
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
As well as:
- a flair for style and colour (creativite skills)
- the ability to put clients at ease
- tact and good listening skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to influence clients in a positive way
- a positive and self-motivated approach
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- the ability to use your initiative (drive)
Entry Requirements:
Image consulting is a field that focuses on helping individuals or businesses enhance their personal or professional image. While there are no specific subjects required to become an image consultant, having a well-rounded education and developing certain skills can be beneficial. Here are some general subjects and steps to consider if you want to become an image consultant:
- Business Studies: This subject can provide you with a foundational understanding of business principles and management, which is essential if you plan to run your own image consulting business.
- Art & Design: Courses in art and design can help you develop an eye for aesthetics, color theory, and fashion, all of which are relevant to image consulting.
- English: Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are crucial for working with clients and explaining your recommendations effectively.
- Psychology: Understanding human behavior and motivations can be valuable when working with clients to improve their self-image and confidence.
- Fashion and Textiles: This subject can provide insights into clothing, fabrics, and fashion trends, which are essential aspects of image consulting.
- Home Economics or Food & Nutrition: Courses in these subjects can be beneficial if you plan to offer guidance on grooming, nutrition, and overall well-being.
- Foreign Languages: Depending on your target market, knowledge of foreign languages may be helpful, especially if you plan to work with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are useful for managing budgets, pricing services, and financial planning if you run your own consulting business.
Post School
There are no set entry requirements, but it would be useful if you have experience or qualifications in areas like:
- business consultancy
- fashion, hair and beauty therapy
- management
- public relations
- recruitment and human resources
- retail
- sales and marketing
- training and coaching
In the UK, you could also work towards qualifications accredited by the Federation of Image Professionals International (FIPI).
It may help you get work if you have a portfolio showing the impact your advice can have, maybe including makeover ‘before and after’ shots.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll usually work from home, but may travel to visit clients at home or at work.
Your hours will depend on your clients, and could include evenings and weekends.
Career Path & Progression:
You could work for a large, international agency, or specialise in a particular area of work.