Turning a Passion into a Career
When people ask, “How did you get into professional image, etiquette, and protocol?” my answer is simple: “I evolved into it.” My journey wasn’t a straight path—it was a transformation shaped by passion, experience, and the willingness to embrace new opportunities.
After spending 16 years in the municipal and international sectors, I took a step back to reflect on what truly inspired me. That’s when opportunities began to unfold, and I followed where they led.
Sharing My Path to Image Consulting
My interest in fashion sparked in high school, where I designed and created my wardrobe. I admired legendary fashion designer Edith Head and dreamed of a career in the field. At the same time, I was deeply involved in gymnastics. In college, I pursued a degree in home economics and physical education, yet I felt something was still missing.
Like many professionals searching for their calling, I sought a career that felt both natural and fulfilling. That’s when I discovered image consulting—a field that blended my passion for fashion, personal development, and professional excellence. Although gymnastics didn’t align with my career path, I maintained an exercise routine for my well-being. That dedication eventually led me to investigate the health benefits of mindfulness.
In 1980, I took my first step into the world of image consulting as a Mary Kay Consultant, where I developed expertise in skincare and makeup artistry. Around the same time, I became actively involved in YWCA programs, empowering women to break barriers through Dress for Success workshops that emphasized the impact of professional attire.
This journey led me to a transformative moment: undergoing a color analysis. Learning that I was a Spring explained why some colors never worked for me—like taupe and black, which I never wore again as a primary color after realizing they washed me out. This discovery ignited my interest in color analysis, leading me to work for Color Compliments, a company influenced by Carol Jackson’s Color Me Beautiful. Eventually, I attended the Professional Image Institute (1984), founded by Susan Bixler.
By 1985, I was ready to launch my own image consulting business. At the time, the image consulting industry was in its infancy, allowing me to grow alongside it. I eventually founded You’re Unique Studio—a stepping stone to the business expansions that followed.
To enhance my training, I sought further certification from the Protocol School of Washington (1989, 1991, 1994), founded by Dorthea Johnson, where I earned additional certifications—another pivotal step in my career.
Certifications and Continuous Learning
To stay ahead in this evolving industry, I pursued certifications related to empowerment and studied fashion at Madison Area Technical College. Attending industry conventions, such as those hosted by the American Federation of Image Consultants (AFIC), helped me stay current with trends and best practices.
These experiences laid the foundation for my business, which evolved from Global Protocol, Inc. to Global Protocol Academy and, ultimately, Gloria Petersen Seminars and Training, LLC. After authoring six books, I chose to rebrand my business to incorporate my name, reflecting my expertise and legacy in the field. Today, I offer seminars, and I train SME professionals and aspiring consultants in professional presence, etiquette, protocol, and mindfulness management.
The Expanding World of Image Consulting
Image consulting has evolved beyond serving celebrities and executives—it is now a thriving, mainstream career with diverse specializations, including:
- Color Analysis – Identifying the colors that enhance personal and professional presence.
- Wardrobe Development – Curating a wardrobe that aligns with individual goals and personal style.
- Professional Presence – Integrating image, body language, and etiquette to create a lasting impression.
- Personal Branding & Public Relations – Crafting a professional identity that supports career growth and success.
- Mindfulness Management – Overcoming challenges with intentional focus on gratitude, affirmations, visualization, kindness, wisdom, and spirituality.
Having a broad knowledge of the industry is valuable, but focusing on your strengths is equally essential. Partnering with experts in areas outside your expertise can expand your services and enhance client satisfaction.
Recognizing that confidence starts with the right mindset, I eventually incorporated mindfulness management into my training. This shift was personal—after facing challenges in my career and life, I discovered how mindfulness could help me navigate setbacks. Inspired by this transformation, I researched and integrated mindfulness techniques into my programs to help clients achieve lasting success.
The Power of First and Lasting Impressions
As an image consultant, your role extends beyond clothing choices—you guide clients in presenting their best selves to the world. Whether it’s selecting the right outfit, refining body language, or understanding how others perceive them, the goal is to align outward appearance with inner confidence and personality. Your expertise can be life-changing, helping clients overcome personal and professional hurdles while reinforcing their self-image.
Is Image Consulting Your Next Career Move?
If you’re considering a career in image consulting, explore its many paths, including:
- Coaching – Helping individuals improve their image and confidence.
- Corporate training – Conducting workshops on professional presence and business etiquette.
- Retail and fashion consulting – Guiding clients in selecting their wardrobes and personal styling.
Whether you want to start a business, enhance your current offerings, or embark on a journey of personal growth, image consulting offers limitless opportunities.
Interested in Learning More?
Visit the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI) website to find chapters near you and explore professional resources. If you’re ready to take the next step, schedule a consultation with me—we’ll discuss how image consulting and mindfulness management can align with your goals.
Share Your Experience!
Are you an image consultant?
What’s your area of expertise?
I’d love to hear your insights—share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
