Exploring the Many
Branches of Expertise
Just like a tree with many branches, the image consulting industry offers a diverse range of specialties. Each branch represents a unique aspect of image management that you can explore and develop based on your interests and client needs.
To build a successful career in image consulting, it’s essential to focus on the areas that align with your passion and expertise while being open to expanding into new branches as the demand arises.
Selecting Your Focus
When starting your image consulting career, choose the branch that resonates most with your personal needs and professional passion. This will be the foundation of your expertise. As you progress, you may encounter new areas of interest or client requests that fall outside your initial focus.
When this happens, consider expanding your skills or collaborating with experts in those areas. For instance, if a client requests media training, you could partner with a media expert to provide comprehensive service, enhancing your credibility and meeting your client’s needs more effectively.
Ideas for Building Your Image Consulting Expertise
Below is a comprehensive checklist of key areas within the image consulting industry. Some categories may overlap, as specific skills are applicable in multiple contexts. Use this list as a visual guide to explore the various branches and identify where you want to specialize or expand your services.
- Color Consulting
Personalizing Color (analyzing eyes, skin, and hair)- Color Psychology
- Wardrobe Color Combinations
- Fashion Styling
- Body Line Analysis (e.g., proportion dressing)
- Personal Shopping
- Closet Inventory
- Wardrobe Planning
- Capsule Wardrobe Development
- Accessorizing
- Cosmetology
- Hair Design
- Makeup Art
- Skin Care
- Spa Treatments
- Professional Presence
- Executive Image
- Dress for Success
- Body Language
- Posture Confidence
- Communication Skills
- Voice Delivery
- Media Relations/Speechwriting
- Speech and Speaking Style
- Conversation Skill Development
- Personal Brand Public Relations
- Self-Esteem Development
- Image Self-Awareness
- Interpersonal Skills Development
- Overcoming Obstacles
- Mindfulness Management
- Social Etiquette and Manners
- Behavior Expectations
- Building Relationships
- Wedding Etiquette
- Prom and Graduation Etiquette
- Social Engagements
Dining and Entertaining- Children and Teen Manners
- Business Etiquette
- Office Behavior
- Professional Interactions
- Business Relationships
- Business Meal Meetings
- Mix, Mingle, and Network
- Social Media and Technology Dos and Don’ts
- Protocol
- Corporate Engagements
- Diplomatic Relationships
- Celebrations and Ceremonies
- Meeting Protocol
Determine Your Unique Focus
While the image consulting industry offers vast specialties, finding your niche is crucial.
My primary focus is on three key areas: (1) Professional Presence, (2) Business Etiquette and Protocol, and (3) Mindfulness Management. Concentrating on these areas, I’ve built a solid foundation to guide my clients effectively.
Grow Your Career Like a Tree
Once you have developed your expertise, your image consulting career will grow like a well-nurtured tree, where each branch represents a vital part of your professional identity.
As you grow, your skills and knowledge will become deeply rooted, enabling you to inspire and guide your clients on their journeys of self-discovery and improvement.
Be the inspiration and example your clients follow!
What areas of image consulting are you most passionate about?
