What Qualifications Do You Need to Become an Image Consultant?
Image consultants work with individuals and businesses by showing them how to present a professional, attractive appearance. They help clients find a new style by making suggestions regarding their physical appearance, public etiquette and manner of speaking. Common qualifications for an image consultant include formal training, experience and licensure.
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Formal Training
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Employers do not always require specific education requirements. However, image consultants can become certified to improve their employment opportunities. The Fashion Image Institute and other image consulting associations and product vendors offer training and coursework, which cover topics such as fashion design, clothing portfolios, body types and general image consulting. Image consultants may also choose to take formal classes in ethics and etiquette, which are offered under public relations (PR) programs at various colleges and can result in a PR certificate, diploma or degree.
Licensure
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), all states require personal appearance workers to be licensed, with the exception of shampooers. Prerequisites for state licensure vary by state; common qualifications include a high school diploma or GED, minimum age of 16 and graduation from a state-approved training program. Candidates need to pass the state licensing exam, which consists of a written exam, and, in some cases, a practical test of styling.
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Experience
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Hands-on work is an important qualification for an image consultant. Soon after achieving formal training, image consultants should work with family members and friends to build their client list and portfolio of work. Image consultants who ultimately desire to be self employed should place more emphasis on creating a successful portfolio, highlighting their best work. Small businesses and personal clients are ideal jobs that help image consults learn the type of skills needed to succeed in this line of work.
Other Qualifications
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Image consultants should enjoy working with people. Being a "people person" means being empathetic and patient with clients as many visit image consultants after a life-changing event has occurred. A good understanding of fashion, art and technical design is also important for this occupation. Image consultants should have a neat personal appearance and clean work environment. Other qualifications for a successful career as an image consultant include good interpersonal skills, business skills and communication skills.
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References
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