Meet Krysta McGowan | Image Consultant and Professional Development Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Krysta McGowan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Krysta, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
When I entered Corporate America after obtaining my MBA, I noticed a gap in professionalism and overall workforce readiness amongst my colleagues. I was in an accelerated Executive Leadership Program, which included 3, 8-month rotations in different areas of operations and at the end of each rotation we had to give a presentation to Senior and C-Level Executives. During those 8 months, there were two main goals: deliver results and network. I noticed how some associates struggled through the networking piece and presenting their best self at work. Whether it was their attire, elevator pitch during networking events, or presenting to our leaders – there was a gap and in the end it impacted the perception of whether or not they could add value to the company. A harsh, but true reality. I worked with so many smart and capable individuals during those years, but the lack of professional development limited their ability to succeed. I wanted to help, and that’s where the idea of Critique Consulting came about. I noticed how a polished and professional image in the workplace can open so many doors and opportunities. I was a result of it and I wanted to bring others along with me.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Critique Consulting is an all-inclusive Image Consulting Firm. We help corporate professionals and entreprenuers enhance their brand through professional development coaching and wardrobe styling services. This incldudes but is not limited to: fashion and special event styling, closet consultations, public speaking coaching, professional presentation and pitch critiques and more!

With that said, I am most proud of my consulting business and the impact it has on the clients served. The most rewarding part is seeing the instant boost in confidence and new opportunities that arise with having a solid brand presence! It really gives credibilty and trust to potential clients and stakeholders.

I have learned a lot about myself as a professional while going through this entreprenuerial journey. The most important lesson that I have learned is to lean on the fact that God gave the vision to me, so it is okay if others do not see it the way I do. They were not included in the conversation.

Lastly, I do want to give a huge thank you to those who have booked me for any service. I have the most amazing clients, which mostly come by word of mouth and that alone speaks volumes. For anyone who has a big idea that may not be the traditional 9-5, just do it. Your gift will make room for you. The key is to gain clarity, be consistent, and remember that progress is better than perfection. You got this!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family, friends and mentors deserve credit and recognition in my story. My family and friends were my first unofficial clients, meaning they didn’t pay me haha. I was the go-to for giving fashion advice for special events and assisting with mock interviews, resume critiques, offer letter negotiations and other things that fall under professional development.

My very first paid client was Dr. Tamica Smith Jones, someone I have always looked up to since I met her when I was in college playing volleyball at Clark Atlanta University. She was the Athletic Director at the time. We reconnected at a basketball game in Phoenix, AZ years later and when I moved to California, where she relocated to, she let me style her for her special events and speaking engagements. That initial opporunity boosted my confidence and also helped me hone in on my craft of wardrobe styling and personal shopping.

For these experiences, I am forever grateful.

Website: www.critiqueconsulting.com

Instagram: @critiqueconsulting

Image Credits
LaJoy Cox Jerrina Montgomery