Image Consulting becomes a growing career option in digital world
Hyderabad: In an increasingly fast-paced and changing world, what we perceive about a person within seconds has become extremely important. In the era of digitalisation of communication, verbal communication is fading. It is in this context that the growth of the Image Consulting market is situated. To feel beautiful is also to see yourself beautiful. […]
Hyderabad: In an increasingly fast-paced and changing world, what we perceive about a person within seconds has become extremely important.
In the era of digitalisation of communication, verbal communication is fading. It is in this context that the growth of the Image Consulting market is situated. To feel beautiful is also to see yourself beautiful. And expert advice on being the best version of yourself is increasingly sought after.
In this article, we focus on one of the fastest-growing futuristic career fields – Image Consulting.
History
The term originated in the seventies. The Conselle Institute of Image Management was founded over 40 years ago and in 1990 the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI) was born, AICI has members in 38 chapters and a presence in over 60 countries across the globe.
The Fastest Growing Industry –
Two major drawbacks that lead to unemployability are skill gaps and skill mismatch. Image Management is the most sought-after industry since it caters to the biggest need in every profession. Whether you are a student, an engineer, a marketing professional, or even a businessman, it is important to be seen walking the talk. It cannot be denied that the 21st century has ushered the need of getting an edge over others and this has led to an increased demand for Image Consultants.
The purpose of an Image consultant is to enhance the image of an individual, a brand or a company, support in relation to the image, restore confidence and self-esteem. Research says, out of 4,000 people surveyed, 79 per cent would be willing to pay for such a service.
A Lucrative Career Option –These professions, which were still struggling a few years ago to be recognised as such, are now enjoying unprecedented enthusiasm and growth. Today Image Consulting is a billion-dollar industry globally. It offers an earning potential between Rs.9 lakh to Rs.18 lakh per year for beginners.
No Academic Qualification Required –To become a certified image consultant, you do not need a degree or a specific academic background. All you need is the passion to transform personalities and a natural inclination towards the field. Here are a few qualities that fit the role of an image consultant:
1. People-person skills
2. Good communication skills
3. Confident public speaking skills
4. Sense of style
5. Good interpersonal skills
It is therefore essential for future consultants to be Globally Certified and thus take part in the development of this sector: today’s youth will become the leaders of the profession tomorrow.
An image consultant must master many disciplines: advise clients on colorimetry, morphology, clothing style, hairstyle, make-up, fashion, and style and also provide advice on the mastery of verbal and non-verbal communication (gestures, posture, etc.). All this while mastering its support through coaching techniques also meet criteria in terms of human quality (courtesy, thoroughness, attentiveness, etc.). Beyond their professional skills, the image consultant must highlight some of these qualities to differentiate themselves from the competition, make yourself known by all means: the profession is as much commercial as technical.
In the career of image consulting, as in so many other fields, it is important to focus on your core skills, to discover your differences, and thus to value your work.
Do you already know yourself well enough to be able to list your main skills and apply them in the practice of image consulting? If so, you can get started now.
Full-time or Flexible working choices
Once you are an Internationally Certified Image Consultant, you can choose when to work and who to work with according to what suits you the best. This is the reason image consulting courses are highly pursued by most of the aspiring individuals of all age groups including mothers and homemakers.
Media & Entertainment, Airlines, Fashion, Hospitality, Client Servicing, or Marketing – an Image Consultant can choose to work full-time in any industry where professionals require Image Management or choose to become corporate trainers, In-store consultants, Personal celebrity stylists, Educational Institution Trainers and much more – the opportunities are limitless.
You can also become an analyst/consultant/expert in Personal Styling, Wedding Styling, Business / Social Etiquette, Body Language, Wardrobe Management, Jewellery, Accessories, Footwear, Eyewear, Personal Colours, Perfumes, Fabrics, Men’s Style (Clothing/Grooming), Women’s Style (Clothing/Grooming/Makeup/Accessories), Make-up, Skin Care, Soft Skill Trainer, Personal Coaches, Public Speaking Coaches, Corporate Trainers, Wedding Stylists/ Consultants, Personal Shoppers and many more.
If you are ready to achieve the perfect work-life balance while conditioning personalities and empowering individuals, then Image Management is for you. Take control of your life and channel your energy into a career that complements your strengths.
The important thing to be a successful image consultant is that you enjoy working with people and understand that you will contribute to the personal and professional development of everyone around you.
Interested candidates can enrol for AICI Certification in Image Management Course through Katalyst Institute of Professional Development (www.kipd.in) in association with IICI.
By Dr Usha Yanamandra – Founder & CEO, Katalyst Institute of Professional Development.
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