Business of Design® | Grow a Profitable Interior Design Business with Kimberley Seldon

What started out as a discussion on how to navigate the world of design industry shows and markets turned into an open conversation with Business of Design® member, Catalina Yturralde, about all things design. In additional to learning the benefit of attending markets and best practices for planning your time there, discover how life experiences influence our work as designers. In this episode we learn: - attend the market most related to your field of expertise, e.g., KBIS Kitchen and Bathroom - markets can help you stay on top of new trends - be confident and ask lots of questions - prioritize and focus on urgent needs, it’s easy to get distracted and socialize - sometimes it’s good to go on your own as it forces you to network It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Longtime Business of Design® member, Tina Marie Singh, shares her strategy for building a collaborative collective. Her approach involves independent designers sharing the workload and profit on all projects. In this episode we learn: - collaboration is a happy way to work - online sales can be robust - levelling up requires you to analyze where you are currently - my client’s will pay my bills is a great mantra It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Business of Design® Members Darci Hether, LeAnne Bunnell, and Nyla Free, return to MO BOD™ with lessons they’ve learned from their best clients. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/podcast-category/mo-episodes/?ref=2&campaign=MOBODPodcast

Yes, it is possible to secure a sizable retainer in order to proceed with confidence on your next big job. Sydney designer, Jodie Carter, shares a recent win and offers advice on how to get where you want to be sooner. In this episode we learn: - follow a process that works to attract better jobs and great clients - raise your rates (we know you’ve heard this here before) - speak only to your ideal (high-end) clients in all your branding - yes, you should read your contract, in full, at the consultation - ask for the money - you can do it - log every minute you work on a job, be a stickler for this It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Marrying a love of real estate and interior design, BOD™ Member Allison Crawford opened her own design centric Airbnb. Add to that a relocation from Austin, Texas to Paris, France–while still running projects in Austin–and you’ve got yourself a whole new level of design education. In this episode, we talk to Allison about her experience opening an Airbnb and what it’s like to move from one country to another while still running a successful, and busy, design firm. In this episode we learn: - how to turn a passion into a successful business venture - the process and experience of opening an Airbnb - the educational value of travel - the experience of charging for your consultation for the first time - a new appreciation for having processes in places It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

The project is going smoothly, and the clients are happy. In fact, this isn't the first project you've done for these wonderful people. Out of the blue the client has a request; a change in process that requires the interior design professional to do additional work. What to do? Business of Design® member and Milwaukee designer, Jerrica Zaric shares her strategy for surviving this challenging situation. In this episode we learn: - to identify client red flag and address them head on - what to do when a client questions your method of charging for services - how to stand your ground and communicate clearly with clients - to set healthy client boundaries It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Meet the superstars of BOD™—design professionals, just like you. Hear first-hand what works and what doesn’t. Success strategies, targeted solutions and motivation. If you’re serious about transforming your business by implementing the systems and procedures you learn about through Business of Design™, our monthly BOD™ Live meetings will help keep you motivated, accountable, and in good company. Become a member and connect with your peers at monthly BOD™ LIVE meetings where you’re in the spotlight. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Yaron Linett, Principal Designer of Formal Traditional in the Washington DC Metro, and long-time Business of Design® member, shares advice on how to increase profits by adding services that clients want, what and how to charge and how to deal with clients or trades who want to work without you in the mix. Lots of juicy insights and incredible wisdom. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/podcast-category/mo-episodes/?ref=2&campaign=MOBODPodcast

Cheryl Horne, Director of Operations at Business of Design® fields dozens of questions from members and fans each week. In this episode, she puts Kimberley in the hot seat and asks her 3 frequently asked member questions. In this episode we ask KS: - Why do you only share your consultation rate on your website? - Do you really get everything you need from the client at the consultation to fully understand their design aesthetic? - If the client is working with a contractor or trade directly, how do you account for that work in your presentation? It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

If you’ve dreamed of having an enviable professional life, it’s time to make it happen. In this episode, Kimberley goes off script to randomly explore a topic from Business of Design® Volume 3 | Win the Flat Fee Game In this episode we learn: - there’s a 99% chance you are losing money doing flat fees - flat fees are not a shortcut to project success - you still need to track the resource of time with flat fee proposals - flat fee proposals are a great incentive to improve efficiencies

If you’ve dreamed of having an enviable professional life, it’s time to make it happen. In this episode, Kimberley goes off script to randomly explore a topic from Business of Design® Volume 2 | Make Every Project Satisfying for Both You and your Client In this episode we learn: - make sure every trade who enters a project is insured - to address unrealistic expectations head on - to establish clear boundaries when working with the client’s trades It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

In one year, BOD™ member, Juliana Olivera is enjoying explosive growth while dealing with the same pandemic issues we are all experiencing. Listen to Juliana share her thoughts on how she manages delays, deficiencies, and client expectations. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/podcast-category/mo-episodes/?ref=2&campaign=MOBODPodcast

If you’ve dreamed of having an enviable professional life, it’s time to make it happen. In this episode, Kimberley goes off script to randomly explore a topic from Business of Design® Volume 1 | Have the Professional Life You’ve Always Wanted In this episode we learn: - an avoidance of the retainer is a big red flag - sometimes our job is to say no, early in the project - shopping with clients requires a firm plan - when a client wants you to price multiple options, let her know it will create additional design fees It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

There’s no way around them…taxes are here to stay. California attorney, Braden Drake, shares tips for preparing yourself for pain-free (almost) tax savings. In this episode we learn: - don’t mess with the government’s money - when in doubt, open a new account - transfer out sales tax (into a sales tax account) so you’ll have the funds when the time is right - don’t mix personal and business expenses It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Join the party and get the scoop…KS dishes on a project meltdown and enlists the help of designer friends to do the same. In this episode we learn: - every difficult moment on a project requires us to look closely to see what we might have done to prevent it - own the errors you make and make them right - do not apologize if it’s not a mistake you made - be firm with clients if they become aggressive It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Sisters in business together? This should be fun! Kelcey and Tracy of Waterlily Interiors share what they’ve learned on the road to success—how they accessorize, which clients they target and even, what their take home pay looks like. And, spoiler alert, they don’t always agree! Join in on the conversation. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/podcast-category/mo-episodes/?ref=2&campaign=MOBODPodcast

Don’t wait for new clients to find you. Get intentional about growing your business. Designers Kelcey and Tracey hired a team, including a photographer and stylist to get their work published. In this episode we learn: - photograph your work—always - use photos to tell an editorial story - styling (that fits your aesthetic) is critical to creating beautiful photos - outsource to help you build the business you want - give individual items more breathing room to add dimension to photos - keep lighting natural - budgeting for accessories is essential if you plan to photograph It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

In an ideal world, at the end of every project, you’d be left with a happy client who is determined to use your services in the future. Unfortunately, it isn’t an ideal world and too many hardworking, talented design professionals are struggling to gain the coveted repeat business that’s essential for establishing a solid client base. In this solo podcast, BOD™ Advocate in Chief (and designer), Kimberley Seldon shares insights into improving long-term client retention and ensuring future business. In this episode we learn: - completing projects is essential for developing long term, repeat clients - allowing space to onboard additional tasks and add to the project is essential for gaining repeat clients - upsell, ask for more work during a project that’s going well - failing to manage a client’s expectations contributes to lack of repeat business - keeping in touch and developing a relationship with clients, after the project ends, is a great way to ensure future business - let clients know you want to work with them again It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

From data our crack team of researchers uncovered (ok, we googled it) a cyber-security ransomware attack occurs roughly every 11 seconds and your interior design firm is not safe from demands for money. In this episode, we explore the state of cyber security and review the steps we can take to protect the businesses we work so hard to grow. In this episode we learn: - to understand the scope of internet-related scams - a selection of cyber safety tools to employ - protect your computers from attack by using a business grade anti-virus solution - use a URL filter (it may be included with some anti-virus software) It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Welcome back, BOD™ members, Rebecca Ward, Lindsay Kjellberg and Cathy Tonks. These three California designers are back to offer tips on managing trades. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/podcast-category/mo-episodes/?ref=2&campaign=MOBODPodcast

As design professionals, we have a high earning potential, but it’s impossible to realize that level of profitability without taking some risks. To protect your business and your mental health, a layered approach to legal protection keeps you safe and able to do your best work. Braden talks attorney with us in a non-attorney way. In this episode we learn: - for maximum legal protection, it’s best to seek a layered solution - initial layers of protection include insurance and contracts - after the initial layers of protection are in place, assess your personal risk aversion to decide if you need further protection - to indemnify another party is to compensate that party for losses that that party has incurred or will incur as related to a specified incident - alternative dispute resolution is a means to solving a dispute outside of court It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Sometimes it’s the unplanned designer-to-designer conversations that yield the most interesting results. Listen in to a few snippets of conversation with BOD™ members, Darcie Janzen and Beth Walther. In this episode we learn: - you don’t have to eat a price increase - transparent money practices make it easier to handle surprises - give the bad information to the client straight, don’t sugar coat it - process will save you every time It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel like projects are simply unpredictable even when you stick to process? You are not alone. In this episode, Kimberley and Cheryl discuss the state of the industry and some common themes they’re hearing from BOD™ members. Kimberley shares her own experience and frustration from her active projects. In this episode we learn: - what industry changes are impacting process and project timelines - to remember the basics; when a project issue arises, consider where you may have deviated from process - that sticking to the STEPs is easier when you are continually refreshing and reminding yourself of your process -to consider the project and client issues that can be resolved with a higher hourly rate It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Is it a string of bad luck, or is something else at play? Let’s ask Iris Piercey to describe what’s happening between STEP 5 the presentation and STEP 6. What’s causing project interruptus and what can be done about it? It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/podcast-category/mo-episodes/?ref=2&campaign=MOBODPodcast

For many design professionals, the task of purchasing artwork for clients or advising them on their own purchases is challenging. Andrea Bogart of Embrace Creatives says she’s a matchmaker who pairs designers with reliable, professional artists—keeping projects on track and on budget. In this episode we learn: - a clear understanding of what’s considered quality workmanship, so you don’t get stuck with an inferior product - quality begins with highly professional artists, so make sure the online art source has professional documentation - with paper/printmaking, ensure stray pieces of backing are cut off neatly and watch for small white patches where the ink has not been evenly applied - with fiber/textile artwork, check for even tension throughout the weaving (zoom with the dealer and ask them to hold the item up to various light) - with paintings, ask about varnishing and avoid placing in full sun or near heat registers - with paintings, avoid wrinkles and puckers ask to see the corners It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

It’s one thing to have systems, procedures, and protocols to run your business and run your projects. It’s all together something different to respect those boundaries day in and day out. In this solo podcast, Kimberley Seldon shares some of the subtle and not-so-subtle ways we get out of process and why that is never a good idea. In this episode we learn: - modifying your process, even a little, is usually a bad idea - if your process for any task or job is not producing the result you want, then you need to tweak the process - remember, in the designer-client relationship, you have the expertise It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Ready to be inspired? Nigerian designer and new Business of Design® member, Joylene Agbamuche, transformed her flagging confidence into an unshakeable foundation for success—in less than one year’s time. Her journey could be your journey. In this episode we learn: - charging for the consultation gets you better clients and more projects - STEP 4 is tedious, but invaluable - recognize the value in what you offer so you can charge your worth - following the process means eliminating needless mistakes It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

What happens when your life gets turned upside down unexpectedly? Dig deeper and try new things... says our guest today, BOD™ Member Gillian Crone. She found herself with no net to fall back on and business prospects that dried up, so she pushed herself to be courageous and aim for big results. Today, she’s a living testimonial for anyone thinking it’s time to reinvent your business and maybe, your life. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, or log into your member dashboard to listen in: https://businessofdesign.com/podcast-category/mo-episodes/?ref=2&campaign=MOBODPodcast

It’s the big moment, at last. The client reveal. With so much at stake, we can’t afford to leave anything to chance. BOD™ member, Dane Austin, shares his experience preparing for and delivering an epic styling reveal for clients. In this episode we learn: - take a deep breath and relax before clients enter for the reveal - schedule a massage for yourself just after the reveal - keep clients aware of each step of the process - prepare clients for the expense of styling up front - study the magazine you want a project to be included in It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Building relationships with your suppliers is key as the support and expertise they can provide you with is invaluable. Understanding high-end artisan furniture allows you to educate clients on where it comes from, how it is made, and the benefits of buying hand crafted quality goods (verses the readily available alternatives). Australian interior design and BOD™ Member, Jodie Carter, takes over the podcast to interview one of her go to suppliers, Shelley Boyd of Boyd Blue, to gain a deeper understand of the global story behind the luxury furniture her clients love. In this episode, you will learn: - To buy once and buy well - The impact of cheap throwaway furniture on the environment - How to build relationships with your suppliers of bespoke furniture - To teach clients the benefits of slowing down and waiting for the right pieces of furniture - To invest where you have weaknesses - Measure results; know that what you are investing time and money in is working. - One of the best investments in your own business are the people - Suppliers are your partners, use their expertise It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Dreamed of writing that book, but haven’t quite gotten around to it? Meet Kathy Buckworth, a professional author with six published titles and counting. Kathy has some advice on how to get started, the perks of being an author and the merits of traditional publishing vs. self-publishing. In this episode we learn: - you can’t know how you write until you write - some writers start with an outline, others are pantsers (writing by the seat of your pants) - if you don’t see it, write it - enter a contest to test your writing - for book proposals, you will have to identify your audience and your competition It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

BOD™ members agree on most things…but not everything. Designer and BOD™ Member Annie Elliott explores a bit of a change to the sacred 15 STEP Project Management Strategy. Listen in. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, or log into your member dashboard to listen in: https://businessofdesign.com/podcast-category/mo-episodes/?ref=2&campaign=MOBODPodcast

Real talk. Real designers. When you can’t decide whether you should take on the new project that you’re being offered, who do you call? Fellow BOD™ members, of course! Kimberley sent up an SOS and designers Laura Elliott and LeAnne Bunnell stepped up to help. In this episode we learn: - stretching creativity can be a good thing - constraints sometimes foster creativity - saying yes to one project means saying no to other things, personal or professional - ask yourself if the project will consume too much psychic energy - be aware of feeling compelled to take a project It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

We all know it takes more than talent to make it in this business. BOD™ member, Maria Viola-Kuttruff reminds us of the value of discipline—how to use it when it matters. In this episode we learn: - trust your instincts when you hear or see a red flag - the majority of tasks we do, as designers, aren’t that exciting - avoid working with anyone who doesn’t share your ability to be disciplined - always let people know if you are running late, even by 5 minutes - aim for polite direction rather than a question when you want something done It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

BOD™ member, Shoshana Gosselin wrote to us and said, "I have a sticky issue and can use your advice.” How could we resist? Listen in as Kimberley and Shoshana unpack a project that went from amazing to …. let’s just say, less than amazing, when her client asked for a change in protocol. In this episode we learn: - constantly review how you work with clients, have it in writing - do not be afraid to say no to a client’s request - have the hard conversations with clients right at the beginning - it’s ok to say, no It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

After listening to BOD™ EP 191 | Creating Value with Camal Pirbhai, Suzanne Manlove has a question about how to get the most out of your drapery workroom. For example, is it a good idea to schedule a meeting with the workroom as a part of the concept phase? Listen in to the conversation. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, or log into your member dashboard to listen in: https://businessofdesign.com/podcast-category/mo-episodes/?ref=2&campaign=MOBODPodcast

The pandemic has not been bad for the interior design field. As we know, the pandemic has made consumers want to improve their homes. That, in turn, has created high demand for interior designers, contractors, and realtors. But what about our vendors and showroom reps? After all, they’re a critical part of your A Team – connecting you to manufacturers, factories, and artisans. In this episode, Interior Designer and BOD™ Member, Annie Elliott, speaks with 3 vendors on her A Team about their experience over the last year. She’s joined by Debbie Pegher of Century Furniture, Dorothy Myers of Schumacher, and Dean Buchanan of Stark Carpet. In this episode you will learn: - The lockdowns affected showrooms for a very limited time. Those who were already advanced online were able to pivot quickly. - When there are issues with merchandise – broken supply chains, foam shortage, etc. –make sure your vendors paint you a vivid picture of the circumstances to relay to your clients. - Envisioning socially distanced workers in a NC workroom really helps clients understand that production is affected and delays are unavoidable. - Not only did demand in general increase during the pandemic, but demand for certain items increased. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Members of Business of Design® have access to our private Facebook community. It’s a safe place to seek guidance from wise peers. This week, Cheryl Horne, BOD™ Director of Operations, pulled some member questions from the FB community, and she asked Kimberley to answer them on the show. Enjoy! In this episode we learn: - an avoidance of the retainer is a big red flag - sometimes our job is to say no, early in the project - shopping with clients requires a firm plan - when a client wants you to price multiple options, let her know it will create additional design fees It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

In order to hire the most talented, capable staff, business owners rely on a variety of recruitment enticements—salary, bonus structures, flex hours, and even a dynamic work environment. Resimercial design, a home-like atmosphere for the office, is quickly becoming the defining trend of today’s office projects. In this episode we learn: - with commercial projects, intake comes from all stakeholders - creating a home-like environment is one way to attract the staff you want - in order to come to a compromise when stakeholders have disparate ideas, look for common denominators - open offices are often a mix of focus and collaboration stations - acoustics are an important factor in open office design - the addition of lvp / lvt (luxury vinyl plank flooring and luxury vinyl tile) and ceiling tiles adds to acoustic comfort - expect a mix of home and work schedules - virtual conferencing is here to stay It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Your individual personality affects every aspect of your life. That's why one of the best things you can do to accelerate future growth is to understand what naturally drives you. When you recognize your strengths and weaknesses, you are able to give the task in front of you your best effort. Discovering set personality patterns allows you to more effectively communicate with others. In this episode we learn: - the value of recognizing your strengths and limitations - how to overcome your shortcomings and clear a path for personal and professional growth - to understand and respect how others differ - build a stronger team that communicates and appreciates each other It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Turns out the client intake process goes beyond the first phone call in STEP 1 when you are building a business on repeat and referral clients. In this episode, guest host and BOD™ Member, Juliana Oliveira of Beyond Interior Design, interviews an essential member of her team, Porsche Williams of The Prototype, who she recently brought on to manage and nurture her client relationships. When it comes to your client pipeline, the fortune is in the follow up. In this episode you will learn: - Having systems in place allows the business owner to easily outsource tasks - To outsource tasks that do not require your time or expertise - Outsourcing frees the business owner up to maximize their creativity and energy in areas that do require their expertise - Not being involved “in” the day-to-day operations of the business allows the business owner to see areas where improvements can be made - An outside perspective can offer creative solutions to enhance the client experience - To recognize what you love to do and what you don’t, and outsource accordingly It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

We all know social comparisons are dangerous. We simply do not have an accurate measuring tool that would allow us to compare our insides with someone else’s outsides. So, what happens when you find yourself feeling envious of someone else’s success? Turns out, like most human emotions, envy isn’t all bad. In this episode we learn: - creatives are hyper-aware of the success of others - sensitivity has a positive side - envy can blot out the good things in your own life - it’s ok to accept uncomfortable feelings; to explore them - how to use envy as fuel to propel yourself forward It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. So says Business of Design® CFO, Larry Goldberg. Find out why analytics are the difference between mediocre success and a business that’s fully optimized in every way. In this episode we learn: - if you can measure it, you can manage it - financial metrics propel us to make important changes on an ongoing basis - key metrics are different in every business, but every business has them procrastination is the art of keeping up with yesterday It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

As a seasoned designer, how can we best support, encourage and inspire the emerging design professionals coming up behind us? Interior Designer and BOD™ member, Annie Elliot says it’s important to have a framework (like Business of Design®) thank you. And make sure newbies know the fundamentals, so they’ll succeed faster. In this episode we learn: - start with a framework (BOD™ works!) - pay yourself first and build the business model around taking a salary - be honest with prospective clients; ask for more money if that’s what you need - setting parameters doesn’t scare clients away as frequently as it motivates them - set a minimum with your first job out of the gate, you’ll succeed faster - don’t reinvent the wheel—just follow a process that works It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Every new business owner needs a bit of luck to get started. Sometimes a peer or colleague is willing to share generously, and you learn something invaluable. Other times, you’re just in the right place at the right time and you’re willing to put in the hard work required so you can grab the opportunity in front of you. BOD™ member Kate Hougen says persistence pays off in every situation. In this episode we learn: - there is plenty of work to go around for - most successful projects are true collaborations - carve out time for goals and setting intentions - don’t underestimate the power, clarity and focus of a clear set of goals - find your niche - raise your rates - be open to different kinds of projects—knowing your ideal client doesn’t mean one type of aesthetic or style - the importance of BOD™ and finding the right mix for your business It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Many designers have some type of retail sales component which complements their interior design business. Others are curious as to whether a direct-to-consumer offering would add to their marketing efforts or increase profitability. BOD™ member Adene Lucas recently launched her own import business and says, yes, a retail sales component can be a healthy addition to your business, provided you do your homework first. In this episode we learn: - Research not only the product you are importing, but its origins - Hire a qualified broker to navigate complicated regulations - Be prepared for random (costly) inspections when you import goods - Use a qualified moving team to receive items from the port (land or sea) - Markup may need to be greater than 3 times It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

BOD™ members, Jameelah and Ebonee share how divine (or was it design) intervention brought them together to form their interior design company. By saying yes, they took big risks and made it work. In this episode we learn: - inspect items as they are delivered in order to avoid getting stuck with damaged product - be courageous and take those projects that are a little out of reach, you’ll learn as you go - don’t be afraid to ask for help from your trades, you don’t have to know everything - when you get out of process, the universe will give you a butt kicking - don’t skip steps, they are meant to be worked in order - CASE method: consultation, anchor, shell, enhancements. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Just like you curate your designs, it’s possible to curate your business. Be choosy when it comes to staff, clients and projects. Guest host and BOD™ Member, Laura Martin Bovard of LMB Interiors, interviews fellow San Francisco Bay area designer, Jennifer Jones of Niche Interiors, in this candid share-all conversation. In this episode we learn: - make the most of your time working for established firms - the worst time to hire is when you need to hire - listen for red flags during the initial phone call and during the consultation - educate clients about the impact of delayed decision-making - perfection is not the goal - let go of self-doubt and trust your instincts - be as picky about the staff and clients you choose to work with as you are about the person you marry - know your value and speak candidly to clients about what your services will deliver - letting go of the wrong clients and projects makes space for the right ones - say NO, practice in front of the mirror It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

What happens when your life gets turned upside down unexpectedly? Dig deeper and try new things... says our guest, BOD™ member Gillian Crone. She found herself with no net to fall back on and business prospects that had run dry. Finding her courage, she refused to settle and aimed for big results. Gillian is a living testimonial for anyone thinking it’s time to reinvent your business and maybe, your life. In this episode we learn: - working in a small town is no excuse for charging low fees - if you are going to invest in presenting your company at a home show or something similar, approach it as a life-or-death endeavor and focus on getting a client - don't give up, if it doesn't work, try something else, quickly - brand yourself and your company image - create a niche It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Eager for more, great clients? Then, get out there and market your services to those collaborators who can make the connection. Sell your services and you are helping others. Plus, if you’re not out there promoting yourself, you’ll be the best designer that no one has ever heard of! In this episode we learn: - feel good about who you are by working with your ideal clients - remind yourself of the best service you ever provided, that’s who you are - target only the best, ideal clients - target only the best collaborators and referral sources - schedule an introduction phone or zoom meeting and follow it up with your pitch package - if you’re not out there promoting yourself, you will be the best designer no one has ever heard of - educate clients through instructional videos - educate referral sources through instructional videos or webinars - ask clients for video testimonials It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast