What are effective ways to conduct an image consulting engagement remotely?

1 Assess the client's needs

Before you start any image consulting engagement, you need to understand the client's goals, challenges, preferences, and expectations. You can do this by conducting an online survey, a phone interview, or a video call. Ask open-ended questions that elicit the client's current situation, desired outcome, and potential obstacles. For example, you can ask about their industry, role, target audience, personal style, budget, and feedback they have received. You can also ask them to send you some photos or videos of themselves in different settings and outfits, or to share their online profiles or portfolios.

3 Follow up and monitor progress

After you have provided your recommendations and feedback, you need to follow up and monitor the client's progress and results. You can do this by scheduling regular check-ins, sending reminders, requesting updates, or soliciting testimonials. For example, you can schedule a weekly or monthly video call to review the client's achievements, challenges, and next steps. You can send them reminders to practice their skills, try new outfits, or update their profiles. You can request them to send you photos or videos of their improved image, or to share their success stories or feedback. You can solicit testimonials from them to showcase your work and build your reputation.

4 Adapt to the client's situation

One of the challenges of conducting an image consulting engagement remotely is that you may not have the same access, control, or rapport as you would in person. Therefore, you need to adapt to the client's situation and preferences, and be flexible and creative. For example, you may need to adjust your schedule, communication style, or delivery method to suit the client's availability, personality, or learning style. You may need to use alternative or improvised tools or resources to achieve the same effect as you would with professional equipment or products. You may need to build trust and rapport with the client by being empathetic, respectful, and supportive.

5 Update your skills and knowledge

Another challenge of conducting an image consulting engagement remotely is that you may face more competition, expectations, or changes than you would in person. Therefore, you need to update your skills and knowledge, and be aware and responsive. For example, you may need to learn new technologies, platforms, or tools that can help you deliver your service more effectively and efficiently. You may need to research the latest trends, best practices, or standards in your field or industry. You may need to adapt to the changing needs, demands, or preferences of your clients or the market.

Image consulting can be a rewarding and lucrative service for management consultants who want to help their clients or themselves achieve their goals and potential. By following these tips and best practices, you can conduct an effective image consulting engagement remotely and overcome the challenges and limitations of distance and technology.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?