Color Analysts
Outlook
Employment Prospects
Employers
For the most part, color analysts are self-employed. They run their own consulting businesses, and have the freedom to decide what customers to serve. Some analysts concentrate on working with corporate clients, but many others may also advise individuals. Consultants may get the products they sell from one company, such as Color Me Beautiful, or they may offer a range of products and services. Those in apprenticeships and analysts just entering the field may work for analysts who have already established their businesses.
Starting Out
Some analysts enter the field through apprenticeships. After working as an apprentice for a few years, they transition to salaried or hourly positions. Others enter the field after obtaining extensive experience in the cosmetology industry or in the business world. It may take three to five years to establish a corporate consulting business.
Advancement Prospects
A skilled and experienced color analyst might expand his or her services to offer additional image consulting services (e.g., body language, etiquette). Others may expand their businesses by adding new clients, developing training programs for future analysts, and becoming experts on color analysis for the media or on lucrative personal social media channels.
Tips for Entry
Join the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI) and Color Designers International (CDI) to access training, networking, and employment opportunities.
Become certified by CDI and AICI in order to show employers that you have met the highest standards set by your industry.
Participate in internships or part-time jobs that are arranged by your college’s career services office, or contact color analysts directly to ask about participating in an internship or apprenticeship.
Obtain hands-on experience in the fashion and cosmetology industries to increase your chances of landing a job.
Attend CDIs annual conference (https://colordesigners.org/events) to network and learn more about the field.