Luxury beauty retail isn’t just about what’s on the shelves. It’s about who’s on the shop floor. Retail consultants shape the experience. They’re the first impression. They’re the reason a client makes a purchase, and the reason they come back. 

At Fortem & Mode, we work with some of the UK’s most exciting beauty brands. We know what makes a great consultant stand out. Because we see it every day. Here’s what matters most.

1. They reflect the brand (and us)

Retail consultants don’t just represent the brand they’re working for. They also represent Fortem & Mode. That’s why we’re careful about who we place.

“We won’t place someone who isn’t a perfect extension of our team.” –  Ceri Gravelle, Fortem & Mode Managing Director

We want people who understand tone, and bring the right energy. The kind of people other teams want to work with.

2. They’re great with people

Soft skills matter. You can teach product knowledge. But listening? That’s harder.

The best retail consultants know how to read a room. They make people feel seen. They create small moments of connection – even on a busy Saturday.

“It’s about creating a quiet moment of connection in a busy store. That kind of approach builds real customer relationships, and often leads to great sales too.” – Chloe, Fortem & Mode South Area Manager

3. They care about the work

Some of our most impressive consultants aren’t qualified makeup artists. They’re self-taught. They’ve learned through Instagram, YouTube, or years of personal passion. What matters is that they know their stuff. And they’re willing to keep learning.

“It’s not always the ‘perfect on paper’ candidates who become the most requested retail consultants. It’s the ones with quiet influence. The ones who connect.” – Chloe, Fortem & Mode South Area Manager

They need to be able to learn fast. And work across different brands with confidence.

4. They’re confident, but not pushy

Confidence matters. But it’s about balance. The best consultants know how to approach customers without overwhelming them. They guide, never pressure. They make the experience feel relaxed and personal.

“I look for people who bring energy, professionalism and a real love for helping others. That kind of attitude is what customers remember.” – Cengiz, Fortem & Mode London Area Manager

They also know how to work on their own. Whether they’re on a busy counter or flying solo, they can handle it with calm and care.

5. They’re commercial

Yes, it’s about connection. But it’s also about conversion. Our consultants understand that the end goal is always sales. Not just hitting a number, but creating the kind of experience that leads to a sale.

“It’s not about closing a sale quickly. It’s about taking the time, building the relationship, and exploring what else the customer might need.” – Beth, Fortem & Mode North West Area Manager

That’s how our consultants hit their targets. That’s how they bring measurable value to the brand.

6. They look the part

Presentation is key. Every consultant we place is briefed on our grooming standards, and those of the brand or store they’re in.

But more than that, we want people who take pride in how they show up. Beauty retail is a visual world. You’re part of the brand image from the moment you step onto the shop floor.

6. They adapt

Working across brands means being flexible. Our consultants move between fragrance, skincare, makeup and more. Each brand has a different tone, customer, and approach.

Standout consultants know how to switch it up. They take the time to understand each client. And they bring consistency, no matter the brief.

6. They love what they do

You can feel the difference when someone genuinely enjoys what they do. They’re more present. More engaged. More likely to leave a lasting impression.

We see it in the retail consultants who get requested time and time again. It’s not just talent. It’s the attitude. Great retail and fragrance consultants aren’t just salespeople. They’re storytellers, hosts, educators and brand ambassadors.

And when you find one that can do all the above – with warmth, professionalism and purpose – you hold on to them. We’re proud to work with some of the best. If you want to find out more about how we recruit, train and support luxury beauty consultants get in touch.

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• Careers in Luxury Beauty Retail: Lessons from Women in the Beauty Industry
• Temporary Staffing as a Strategic Lever, Not a Reactive Fix
• The Luxury Retail Hiring Checklist: 7 Competencies That Predict Results