The difference between image consulting for men and women
Image consulting for men is almost a different industry than for women. The approach that resonates with most male clients differs from the one that clicks with most females.
As an image consultant, you need to be keenly aware of how gender differences will affect your work. You'll become a more effective consultant when you understand what each group needs. Plus, you can tailor your brand toward either men or women, depending on which fits your communication style better.
1. Motivation
Men don't often ask others whether their clothes look good. They certainly don't ask other guys for styling tips. Usually, men wear whatever fits. Because men don't seek feedback on their clothing and appearance from the people around them, they have an enormous need for image consulting services.
Professional style advice could open up whole new worlds for them. For the first time, they start paying close attention to their looks. With that will come a fresh air of confidence and authority in the workplace.
Most women care about looking great. So, unlike guys, they ask around about what they should wear. They chat with their friends about clothes and hairstyles. Women often go shopping and try our new looks together. Unfortunately, women don't always give each other the best advice.
Sometimes, they don't know better about what looks good on someone. Other times, they may be afraid to hurt a friend's feelings.
Women need image consultants to act as objective third parties. They appreciate someone who provides reliable advice without letting their personal feelings get in the way.
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2. Experience
Most male clients are not interested in learning how to transform their appearance. They focus on the results, not on the steps to get there. The outcome is what's important.
Female clients care about their transformation journey. They want to be part of the process and know about each step you are taking. They appreciate feeling like the two of you are doing this together. They especially care about shopping; they want to be there for the whole process.
3. Communication
When I speak to male clients, I can assume the position of an authority figure and be very direct with them. I simply tell them what they need to do. Men appreciate my direct approach. They don't want to think about what to wear and how to do things differently. They are satisfied to let me make those decisions.
Many women can be sensitive about their appearance, and hearing what they've been doing wrong can sting. A less direct approach is essential. It would help if you were discreet and supportive of getting them on board with your suggestions.
Your communication style
Some image consultants are naturally included to use a direct approach. For others, the careful, sensitive style is much more in line with their personality.
You, too, prefer one over the other. That's your natural way of working with clients. You need to identify, embrace, and build your image consulting brand around it.