How to Get Paid to Be an Image Consultant

Image consultants help clients select clothing for various occasions.

Image consultants help clients in improving their image with respect to wardrobe, etiquette and body language. The Association of Image Consultants International notes on its website that image consultants may have a specialty, such as clothing, makeup or etiquette consulting. Image consultants can work for an existing business or be self-employed.

Training

While image consultants do not need a degree to start a business; completing a formal training program can be helpful with respect to attracting paying clients. For example, the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City offers a certificate in image consulting that can be completed in a classroom setting or online. The certificate program covers topics including wardrobe planning, color and business essentials for a professional shopper. Alternatively, the Association of Image Consultants International maintains a listing of online and classroom-based training programs on its website.

Certification

Image consultants can earn a professional credential from the Association of Image Consultants International. There are three levels of certification available: first level, professional and master. To earn initial certification, a candidate must own an image-consulting business and complete an approved training program. Subsequent certifications are awarded to image-consulting professionals who pass an examination and meet work experience and continuing-education requirements.

Business Licensing

To start an image-consulting business, you will need to apply for the appropriate licenses in your state. The United States Small Business Association maintains a search page on its website where you can research specific licensing requirements for the state where you plan on starting your image-consulting business. In addition to a business license, you will need to apply for an Employer Identification Number with the Internal Revenue Service so that you can file taxes. As a business owner, it is also recommended that you establish a dedicated checking account for your business.

Considerations

StateUniversity.com, a career resources website, reports that pay for image consultants can vary depending on factors such as location and experience level. Some image consultants start out working as personal shoppers in department stores as a way to build a reputation and clientele before opening their own businesses. Self-employed image consultants can charge anywhere from $25 to $300 per hour for a consultation, in addition to $20 to $80 per hour for shopping time. Salaried image consultants earn $30,000 to $57,500 annually on average, according to StateUniversity.com.

References

• Association of Image Consultants International: About Image Consulting
• Association of Image Consultants International: Certification
• State University of New York, Fashion Institute of Technology: Image Consulting
• U.S. Small Business Administration: Search for Business Licenses and Permits
• StateUniversity.com: Personal Shopper Job Description ...