Some workshops and courses offer a certificate upon completion, which can be a nice addition to your resume. If you can’t find a workshop or course in your area, many online schools offer courses in the field, which can be a convenient alternative.
Taking art classes can also help you as image consultant because it can help you better understand color theory, which will come in handy when you’re helping clients choose the most flattering shades for their hair, makeup, and clothing. [3] X Expert Source Shelley GoldenPersonal Branding Image Consultant & Personal Stylist Expert Interview. 10 July 2020. Sewing classes can help you understand garment construction and how different fabrics work together. [4] X Expert Source Shelley GoldenPersonal Branding Image Consultant & Personal Stylist Expert Interview. 10 July 2020. Psychology courses can help you develop skills for a career as an image consultant because you’ll learn how to interpret clients’ behavior and emotions so you can help them feel better about themselves. Fashion merchandising classes are a good idea if you’re thinking about a career as an image consultant because it can help you develop a better understanding of fashion and style.
Many people who become image consultants start on a part-time basis, so they have a reliable income while they’re working to build a client base.
You can also choose to specialize in certain types of clients, such as job seekers, executives, beauty pageant contestants, singles, or cancer survivors. Some image consultants choose to work exclusively with corporate clients instead of individuals, so they provide advice regarding employee uniforms, communications and body language for sales teams, and multicultural etiquette. [7] X Research source
You may also want to develop partnerships with dietitians, cosmetic surgeons, dentists, and vocal coaches. It’s important to find partners whose skills you really trust, so it’s best to work with individuals who you have personal experience with. For example, if you have a hair stylist who’s always given you great cuts, ask her or him if s/he would like to partner with you.
If you don’t have enough friends and family members who are interested in makeovers, consider offering your services to local charities, such as a homeless shelter where individuals might need tips preparing for job interviews.
Make sure that your portfolio has high quality photos. If possible, take them with a digital camera instead of the one on your phone. Pay attention to the lighting in your photos. You want prospective clients to be able to see all of the details in your makeovers. It’s a good idea to have both a physical portfolio that you can bring to meetings with clients, and a digital version that you can send to potential clients who may not be willing to commit to a meeting.
To become AICI certified, you’re required to submit a portfolio which includes client evaluations and proof that you’ve performed 30 hours of work in the image field, along with other documentation. You also must sit for the AICI CIC Exam, which tests your knowledge of topics in the image field.
It’s a good idea to start a blog that focuses on image consultancy issues and tips. It can help you seem like an authority in the field.
Include your website and social media account information on your cards, so potential clients can check you out online.
