Image Consulting as a Career

Cleveland Plain Dealer, April 1, 2007

Improving the Image

You've seen them while watching TV shows such as Extreme Makeover, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy or What Not to Wear. Image consultants are paid to show people how to create a fabulous impression. They also offer advice that can help people land a job, get a promotion or find someone to love. Kristen Kaleal is founder and president of Kristen Kaleal Image Design, a Cleveland-based image consulting company.

Q: What are the opportunities in this field of work?

A: Image consultants can do a variety of things from working one-on-one with clients where we organize closets and shop with them or for them to speaking for companies and organizations on professional image and style. Some cities are naturally more image-conscious and present more chances to ply your trade.

Q: What are the typical requirements for employment?

A: You must to be willing to work for yourself with the understanding that it means not having a steady and stable income. You are the greatest example of your abilities, so presenting your own flawless image at all times is a must. A lot of people believe that if you love to shop, you can be an image consultant. There is a lot more to it than that.

Q: What are the frustrations?

A: Cleveland is not intensely image-conscious, like L.A. or New York, so creating a profitable business here can be a challenge. Working outside of the area at times is mandatory.

Q: What changes do you think are coming?

A: There is currently a backlash against strict corporate image - the navy suit mentality, I call it. People are happiest at their jobs when they are allowed to be themselves while still dressing appropriately for work. Business casual dress was supposed to bridge this gap, but has created its own challenges. It really is an exciting time because a new professional standard is being created, and I get to be one of the people making it happen.

Q: What does it take to succeed?

A: The one inescapable fact is that if you want to be a working image consultant, 80 percent of your success is in how well you market yourself. I have an e-mail newsletter, a style column on ClevelandWomen.com and my blog. Professional affiliations are also a must. I am president-elect of the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI) so I can actively watch the industry from a local, national and international perspective.