Image Consulting...why do you need it?

I am sure we all would have thought why is it important to score the best in every opportunity that comes our way. However we often forget that we did get an opportunity and do not ask ourselves the most important question – How the hell did we land in such an opportunity?

Sometimes we figure that out and sometimes you need a Specialist in that area to help you out of such a situation when badly in need professional help – the savior is called “Consultant”.A consultant is someone who has influence over an individual, group, ororganization, but who has no direct authority to implement changes but has awide knowledge of the subject matter. And in Image Management you find him/her as Image Consultant.

While we can draw lot of lines of history from the predated times to the concept of consulting, the image management industry officially with the key concepts only started in the late 1970’s andearly 1980’s. Before that time “image management or image consulting” for thegeneral public was not a familiar concept. Principles of attire were onlytaught at fashion, finishing and modeling schools. Politicians, models, TVpersonalities and celebrities were the only likely candidates to hire an imageconsultant or receive an image makeover.

In the 1980’s several forces combined to pave the way for the image consulting industry to emerge. John Molloy’s book, "Dress for Success" enjoyed huge popularity and seasonal color theories began to gain momentum throughout the world. At the same time, women entering the workforce were in increasing numbers and competing in a man’s world. They saw that image mattered to their upward mobility and therefore, began to invest money in their appearance.

In the 1990’s the high-techcompanies influenced a more relaxed trend in dress and “business casual” sweptacross the country. Employers reported that unfortunately business dress wentfrom formal to business casual to business catastrophe and widespread confusion prevailed. Image consulting was essential to introduce dress codes and standards.

Today, the demand for qualityimage management consultants has risen to a new high as new markets have emerged. The competition is fierce as a plethora of highly qualified candidates seek new jobs and need to differentiate themselves from the competition.Personal and professional development skills become critical in such a climate. From my point of view for the industry this is good news! The definition of image consulting has broadened beyond “makeovers” to include behavior, civility and etiquette, body language, grooming, vocal and verbal communication,presentation, and personal branding.

Create an Image that lastsforever!!! And ready yourself for manymore opportunities and second chances!