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How To Hire An Image Consultant, Business Etiquette Speaker, Or Trainer |
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Increasingly, businesses are expressing growing concern with the lack of professional polish within their organization. Many CEOs and company presidents have become alarmed, having observed their key people dressing inappropriately or demonstrating poor manners while in the presence of clients or industry peers.
Greater numbers of corporations are turning to outside consultants for help.
Hiring a good, qualified, professional, business etiquette trainer, or image consultant can be a daunting task. There are literally hundreds of consultants in the United States. So, how do you choose? |
| Numerous clients have asked (pleaded with) me to post some guidelines for HR directors, project coordinators and others to follow while trying to find the right training program for their organization.
As with all things, a little due diligence can head off disaster.
Here are some guidelines to consider:
Ask yourself: What are your issues? For example, are you looking for training in business etiquette, dining etiquette, professional image development, such as appropriate wardrobe, or all three? What results are expected by your management team? Does the program being offered to your organization fit your needs? It has to be a good fit.
Does the consultant being considered sell products? Is the real purpose of the "training" to sell your people books, cosmetics and skin care, or other products? Is that what you want?
Do they represent a department store? Is their purpose to educate your group or to promote the latest fashion? Will the "dress for success" presentation be geared toward your industry, or the store's current inventory?
Are they stating in their marketing materials that they are "certified" image, business etiquette or protocol consultants? Ask by whom? Ask how long their certification training was. Beware. Often, it is just three days. Can a person really become an expert authority in just three days?
How long have they been "experts"? Specifically, how long have they been teaching the materials that your company is seeking to be presented? Are they experienced enough to answer tough questions with absolute authority from attendees? Your group should be encouraged to ask plenty of questions.
Is the program prepared from their own expertise and experience, or is it a prepackaged slide show that they purchased from a vendor?
Who are their clients? Ask for references. You are entitled.
In your opinion, do they "walk the talk" in professional polish and appearance? A telephone conversation is essential when considering retaining a consultant or trainer. You will get a feel for the person's level of professionalism. Plus, it is a good test of their communication skills. You will be able to determine if you are compatible.
Lastly, the fees. While costs are certainly a valid prerequisite, "what is your fee?" should not be the first question that you should ask. Every organization has budget issues to take into consideration. If the program is a hit, you will be a hero. But if it is a disaster, you will be left with the blame for hiring this person. View the training program as an important investment in your personnel. It isn't what you pay, it's what you get. Choose wisely. By exercising prudence, you can make an informed decision for yourself and/or company. |
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e-mail: patricia@etiquettepro.com
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