How to Become a Color Consultant

Color has a greater effect on us than we think. It can affect our mood, convey an image and enhance or cancel out our natural beauty. Color consultants help people coordinate color in their homes, businesses and appearance. You must have an eye for decor, be tactful and like working with people. Follow these steps to get into this line of work.

Instructions

1. Get a degree in interior decorating, fashion design, retail merchandising or art. Take courses in psychology, sociology and business. Attend seminars, courses or one-on-one training given by a professional color consultant.

2. Visit a department store and spend time in the makeup section. Ask the women behind the counters about the clients they serve and the problems they face. Send a thank-you card or bring them a gift to thank them for their time.

3. Volunteer to help friends with their decor when they're moving. Go shopping with family members and give advice about colors. Everywhere you go, take notes on colors and what mood they set, impression they give and how attractive they make the place or person look.

4. Educate yourself about color theory. Princeton Online has color meanings from a variety of cultures (see link in Resources). Practice color theory on yourself and in your home to understand first-hand the effects of color.

5. Team up with hair salons, independent drug stores and small home décor businesses and do co-op marketing. Have them keep your business card and brochure in their place of business. Carry some of their marketing materials with you and refer clients to them.

6. Join the International Association of Color Consultants in North America (IACCNA). Network at their seminars. You can also join the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI), but keep in mind they focus on enhancing an individual's appearance, behavior and communication skills.

7. Build your reputation with seminars and training courses. Offer them to budding color consultants, stores or companies that work with the public and individuals through parties.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider working for a department store, retail outlet, makeup company, furniture store or image consulting firm before going out on your own.

Resources

• Leatrice Eiseman gives a 4-day color design course.
• Learn about color theory.
• Join the IACCNA and attend their seminars.
• Connect with image consultants through the AICI.