'The way you present yourself well is important'

Prakriti Poddar, 35, graduated in Economics from Canada and did a course in image consulting at the International Image Institute, Canada. She is an image consultant with Mind Over Image Consultancy in Mumbai. HT reports.

Prakriti Poddar, 35, graduated in Economics from Canada and did a course in image consulting at the International Image Institute, Canada. She is an image consultant with Mind Over Image Consultancy in Mumbai.

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How did you train to become an image consultant?

I graduated in economics from Canada and did a course in counseling. I then went to Barbazon Finishing School. I also worked with my mother in her clothes company. Then I got a certificate in image consulting from the International Image Institute.

Tell us something about your work.

Image consulting as a profession has taken off abroad but is yet to gain acceptance in India because it mainly deals with physical appearance. Nobody in India wants to experiment with looks or clothes, and most do not realize the importance of a confident posture and presenting oneself well. This is why I market myself more as a management consultant or counselor.

What sort of clients do you have?

Businessmen consult me when they have important meetings or presentations. I also get women who are not satisfied with their relationships and are low on confidence.

Does the profession pay well?

I may charge Rs. 1,000 for a session. One can earn to about Rs 1.5 lakh a month if one takes five to six clients a day.

What about job satisfaction?

I first work on the person's mind through hypnotherapy. I make him resolve his issues through counseling. Only after that do I take the step to change his appearance. As a result, the effect is wonderful and long lasting. It is great to see your clients' morale get a boost.