Amy's Advice: How to choose an Image Consultant
There are several things one must know before hiring an Image Consultant, the first one being “What IS an Image Consultant?”
The field of Image is broad however, an Image Consultant by definition, specializes in any or all of the following three areas:
- Physical Appearance – Grooming, hair, make-up, color, wardrobe, and personal shopping.
- Behavior – Personality, stress management, etiquette, and protocol.
- Communication Skills – Diction, body language, relationship-building, and conflict resolution.
Additional training to become an Image Consultant is not a requirement and currently there is no program for earning a formal degree in the field.
It’s important to ask your potential consultant if they’ve had training and if so, specifically where and in what areas. Just because someone has a flair for fashion and can shop with the best of them does not mean they’re an Image Consultant. Kind of like just because someone gets married doesn’t necessarily make them a wedding planner.
Above all, when seeking a consultant it’s important to interview several individuals to ensure you feel comfortable with that person. It’s a very personal process, one that you will be sharing many confidences and perhaps exposing some vulnerabilities, so make sure you “click” with this person.