Clients confide in consultants they find competent. So, how does one concisely and capably create that confidence?

With often limited time to establish credibility it’s critical to convey complete comprehension of the client’s challenges, while construing care and creating comradery.  

When the product you are selling is services, and you are the one offering those capabilities – you are the product. As a result, you have to make sure you look like something worth buying. As objectifying as that may seem, in consulting it is true. When the product is often intangible the person delivering the services becomes the product. Ensuring that you are well groomed, and extremely poised and confident in your personal presentation goes a long way to establishing that client comfort in your consults.

Of course, you also have to have the career knowledge and expertise to back up your claims, but ensuring your wardrobe is complimenting (not cursing) is a crucial component to coercing client confidence.

For this consulting classic look I’ve paired a black basic work dress with all black accessories. Simple and understated it allows the natural confidence to take center stage. Black is a very powerful color – simple and elegant, it projects composure. This dress is a great option when not looking to wear a full suit, but still want to be appropriately dressed for more formal days. It also wears well under blazers (I pair it regularly with different ones when wanting a covered arm). I found it last fall and have really enjoyed having it as part of my work wardrobe rotation – the satin detail along the neck and sleeve line gives it a bit of intrigue while remaining very professional and understated.

Choose clothing classics and coerce confidence.

*Caveat: the use of the word ‘coerce’ here is defined as – to compel to an act or choice, not to achieve by force or threat. Please don’t force or threaten your clients… that kind of coercion is generally frowned upon and illegal.

All my best,

Outfit Details – Dress: Hugo Boss  Shoes: Jimmy Choo Hose: Natori Necklace: Pearls Earrings: Pearls Sunglasses: Krewe  Bracelet:  David Yurman and Hermès Ring: PERSONAL DESIGN (SUNFLOWER) CREATED BY: RONNY BARNEA –  JEWELRY ON 5TH  Purse: Prada Perfume: Gucci Guilty