Winsan Talks: An Interview with Image Management Expert Chen Liqin
This article summarizes an interview with Ms. Chen Liqin, an expert in image management. She discusses her approach to personal branding, corporate image integration, and how individuals can better express themselves through their appearance.
Chen Liqin's Approach to Image Management
Ms. Chen Liqin, founder of Chen Liqin Image Management School, specializes in helping individuals and corporations create a strong and cohesive image. She emphasizes that image management encompasses far more than just clothing. It is about expressing one's inner self and achieving alignment between inner and outer presentation.
The Concept of Daily Accumulation
Chen Liqin believes in the power of daily observation and accumulation. She uses everyday experiences and interactions with people as inspiration for her work and writing. She explains that every aspect of a person, from their behavior and speech to their clothing and habits, contributes to their overall image.
Image Management as a Creative Art
Chen Liqin considers her work as an art form. She sees individuals as unique works of art and finds creativity in helping them express themselves authentically. Her EQ courses, taught for over 25 years, remain fresh because each student brings a unique perspective. She enjoys helping people find clothing and styles that suit their individual characteristics and allow them to see themselves in new ways.
Understanding and Expressing Yourself Through Image Management
Overcoming Self-Doubt
Ms. Chen addresses common concerns about expressing oneself through clothing. She acknowledges that people often worry about their body shape, skin tone, and other perceived imperfections. She stresses the importance of focusing on oneself and understanding one's unique characteristics rather than comparing oneself to others or following trends blindly.
Catching Yourself Back
The foundation of image management, according to Chen Liqin, is rediscovering oneself. She helps her students focus on their unique qualities and develop a style that reflects their inner selves.
Matching Color, Style and Personality
She promotes a scientific approach to image management by focusing on matching color, style, and personality. This approach helps individuals to choose clothing that enhances their appearance and expresses their true selves.
Treating Yourself as a Product
Chen Liqin encourages individuals to think of themselves as products in the 21st century. She argues that people have already invested significant resources in self-development. The key is to package themselves effectively to showcase their strengths and talents to the world.
The Importance of Image Management in Communication
Image Management as a Language
Chen Liqin believes that communication extends beyond spoken words. Body language, clothing, and overall appearance contribute to the message being conveyed. Poor communication occurs when there is a disconnect between what is said and how it is presented.
Efficiency and Compassion in Communication
Effective image management leads to efficient and compassionate communication. When individuals present themselves authentically, they can communicate their message quickly and effectively, saving time and energy for themselves and others.
Image Management as a Reflection of Inner Self
Image management is not simply about "adding points" but about authentically expressing oneself. She uses the analogy of an actor fully embodying a role. The goal is to achieve harmony between inner qualities and outward presentation.
The Allure of Authenticity
Chen Liqin emphasizes that true attractiveness stems from inner beauty expressed outwardly. She references Rodin's The Thinker as an example of someone embodying thought with their entire being. Image management acts as the bridge that connects inner qualities with outer expression.
The 7-38-55 Rule
Chen Liqin highlights the communication research of UCLA professor Albert Mehrabian, which suggests that communication is only 7% verbal, 38% vocal (tone of voice), and 55% visual (appearance). This underscores the importance of visual communication in conveying a message.
Practical Advice for Image Management
Finding Your Personal Slogan
Chen Liqin advises individuals to identify their personal slogan or motto. This slogan serves as a guiding principle for their image management efforts.
Evaluating Your Current Image
She recommends using a mirror or asking friends for feedback to assess whether their current image aligns with their personal slogan. The goal is to create an image that authentically reflects their desired qualities.
The Power of the Wardrobe
Chen Liqin says your wardrobe can tell you a lot about yourself. Assess what you wear most often, and what sits unworn. These provide clues to finding what's authentically you.
The Avatar Analogy
Chen Liqin uses the analogy of the Avatar, emphasizing that each day, we dress for a mission. Our clothing is the exterior to achieve what we hope to achieve that day. She wants everyone to feel they are 100%.