Personal Branding Problem? Why An Image Consultant Is The Answer

There are few that would argue that the most successful entrepreneurs have been able to created an image of themselves in the eyes of the public – they have mastered what is known as Personal Branding. What most don’t realise however, is that many have used the services of an image consultant to create their brand – their public persona.

Business executives, too, have come to value the services of consultants to help them project an image that will reflect honesty, confidence and competence.

What Is Personal Branding?

Personal Branding is not creating an unrealistic image for the outside world; rather it relates to identifying the client’s totally unique combination of physical and emotional attributes – their size, shape, strengths, passions, skills and values – and using these in a way that makes them stand out as individuals.

In order to do this, a professional image consultant will need to learn what makes their client ‘tick’: why are they different, interesting, successful.

First Impressions

Perhaps one of the most obvious ways that image consulting will be utilised is by way of a style makeover. This can include:

* providing assistance with your wardrobe
* offering advice on personal grooming, including hair and makeup
* lessons in etiquette

Your Inner Image

While the importance of creating an impeccable first impression should not be underestimated, the real essence of personal branding lies within the inner person.
Achieving a level of self-confidence, learning how to engage an audience and to make others feel at ease are all vital to projecting a great image.

Choosing an image consultant

maria@mariacuci.com

When searching for help to achieve your personal branding objective look for one who can delivery a range of services. It is rare that the only help you will need will be that of a personal shopper to help with a style makeover. You will likely need the services of someone who can help you with etiquette, grooming, protocol and effective communicating.

Most people are comfortable with an image consultant who can offer several levels of service, allowing them to test their working relationship before committing to more services.

Always check the bona fides of anyone offering personal branding services. Ask for evidence of their successes, testimonials or references from previous clients, and obtain confirmation that they can deliver the results you are want.

Most importantly though, if you think you need the help of a stylist, then you probably do! Don’t try to do this on your own – engaging a personal branding specialist with objectivity is the only way to get real results.

Your Personal Style Coach

Style is the synergy which brings together all the aspects of your visual design in your appearance – colour, body proportions, wardrobe, make up and hair. This creates a cohesive look and adds the “wow” factor!

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So before stepping out of your home today ask yourself:

What are my intentions for today?

What image do I want to project today?

How do I want others to perceive me today?

The most versatile wardrobe consists of Your Personal Style Statement

When identifying the style that suits you the best, consider the following:

· what you feel the most comfortable in and confident in

· the styles that best harmonise and balance your body shape

· what you do during a typical week, and how this will influence the style of clothes that will work for you

· your budget and how it relates to your lifestyle

Always choose colours that are harmonious to your natural colouring and styles that are flattering to your body shape. Colour is one of the first things that you notice about someone, it can influence mood, perceived age and the overall impression that we have on others and how we feel about ourselves.

The fact is that when you wear colours that suit you, you will look younger, healthier, more vibrant and energetic. Whist wearing colours that do not suit you or flatter your skin tone can make you look older, ill, exhausted or dull.

Wardrobe Essentials:

These pieces are classic and can be worn regardless of the current fashion trends. Add your own style statement with a fashionable top, jewellery, bags scarves and shoes.

· Dark well fitted jacket

· White good quality shirt

· Black straight legged pants

· Dark skirt (that suits your body shape)

· Simple tops

· Black shoes

Also choose accessories that will update your look and mirror your personality, you should aim for 30% of your wardrobe to be made up of accessories. This can turn your existing pieces into the current look and is a far less expensive way to remain fashionable.

Your appearance, your attitude and how you relate to yourself impacts who you are and who you become.       How are you showing up in the world? It’s all about being the very best you!

“The alignment of your inner self with your outer self allows you to live in authenticity. The empowerment that this authenticity provides can lead to success beyond your dreams.”

Maria Cuci-Panetta

Your Personal Style Coach

Personal Branding Specialist

Professional Image Consultant

VP Marketing, Sydney Chapter AICI

(Association of Image Consultants International)

Certified NLP Master Results Coach

http://www.mariacuci.com

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