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

Hourly fees vs. flat fees and how to handle the generalist within. Award winning Australian designer, Marylou Sobel, was more confused than ever after listening to a specific Business of Design™ Podcast about flat fees. Kimberley answers her questions and provides a better understanding of which fee structure works best. In this episode we learn: - when you set an hourly fee, it is built for profit, not just for covering overhead - some clients like flat fees and some like hourly fees, there is no one-size-fits-all - when in doubt, hourly fees are less risk to the design professional - handling a client who wants you to deviate from your process - specialists make more money than generalists - follow BOD™ 15 Step Project Management Strategy as prescribed - full service means nothing 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 possible to boost the creative talents of designers—and the clients they work—by tapping into scientific triggers for creativity. Architect Donald M. Rattner shares the science behind enhanced creativity. In this episode we learn: - creative triggers can be physical or intellectual - your own workspace can be adjusted to assist and support creative power - there are colors that can assist how much creativity we tap into - how we are oriented in a room can impact creativity - curved shapes put us in a more creative mind - research says we are at our creative peak between 9 am – 1 pm - stress is the number one creativity killer - consider idea seeding—allowing your brain to work on a creative problem during sleep It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

To run a successful business, it’s vitally important to make time to work ON the systems and protocols that keep ensure projects run efficiently and effectively. DC designer Annie Elliott took this advice to heart and transformed her business—one system at a time. In this episode we learn: - make time to work ON your business. - a good bookkeeper is your partner in financial matters - select a software program can tell you what your gross, net and profit margin - follow your own rules - small projects take just as much time and effort as large ones, but they are far less profitable - review job descriptions from time to time - take time to analyze the income from past projects and spot the patterns - plant seeds of interest with the press It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Most of us will do anything to avoid change, even if it means staying stuck or staying miserable. Sometimes we are so invested in staying the course, even when a situation is lousy, that we’ll dismiss a new idea or concept outright, thus missing the opportunity to make dramatic improvements to the bottom line and to client satisfaction. In this episode we learn: - thinking, “I can’t”, is the surest way to stay stuck - trying something you are positive won’t work, might change your life for the better - if you are a BOD™ member, use the systems as described before you decide you can’t - find a method that sounds reasoned and try it 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 journey to entrepreneurship is not always a straight path. Sakina Khawaja shares lessons from her own journey, 17 years in the making. In this episode we learn: - eliminating tasks that don’t bring you joy can free you up for more meaningful work - outsourcing done well turns into additional revenue - trial and error is more painful than following the advice and direction of someone who knows - if you do the work yourself, it does not cost nothing—it costs your most valuable resource… time - test multiple messages when launching an online campaign; eliminate the ones that aren’t as powerful 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 designer who’s worked on a flat fee basis has experienced the monster that is scope creep. Although the vast majority of freelancers consider scope creep to be negative, there’s another side to the story—a positive side. In this episode, Kimberley looks at how to protect yourself from the negative aspects but allow room to embrace the positive aspects. In this episode we learn: - the dual personalities of scope creep - how to automatically get paid when scope creep occurs - how scope creep can also be a sign of trust - how thoroughness increases profits and clients will love you for it It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Back by popular demand, Dr. Ganz Ferrance shares an inventory process from his new book, The Me Factor that will help you spot the signs of burnout before things go too far. He’ll also share his insights on the vicious cycle you can find yourself in by investing too much time in social media. In this episode we learn: - spot the signs of burnout - feed yourself well (spiritually, emotionally and physically) and heal - ask yourself regularly, “is this working for me?” - don’t set a boundary you cannot keep - how to spot the liar within It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Making your business magnetic is the surest way to attract clients, but it starts as an inside job. As a service industry provider, you are the business, so you have to be positive and enthusiastic for your clients while maintaining a clear and present channel for your own well being. Balance is a myth, but equilibrium is attainable, and very attractive. In this episode we learn: - each of us determines how successful we want to be - your thoughts shape your destiny - consider a value proposition be if you understood homes are sacred - brand evangelists are your best opportunity for promotion It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Although hiring, firing and performance reviews are rarely the stuff entrepreneurial dreams are made of, they are elements that come into play as your practice grows. Aysun Kuck has worked with Kimberley Seldon Design Group for more than 20 years, running an office that consisted of 13 designers plus support staff. In this episode we learn: - a process for hiring is the surest way to get quality staff - candidates who do not follow the basic rules for the hiring process should be immediately disqualified from the process - firing is an inevitable part of the job - saying yes to every opportunity, without restrictions is not the best way to grow your brand It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Flat fees vs. hourly fees—we could have this debate forever. While no system is perfect, Tim Williams, a professional marketing expert, believes value based flat fees provide a superior way to price for your expertise. In this episode we learn: - if you do not handle project management, you will most likely never get a finished photo to use in your portfolio - consider how disintermediation (cutting out the middle man) might impact your business - price in phases to give clients options - avoid pricing your services only to cover your overhead 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 this solo podcast, Kimberley shares insights from her journey to reorganize her business and her life—paving the way for Business of Design™. She weaves funny examples from her interior design practice with parallel topics from a BOD™ member-recommended book, Confessions of an Organized Homemaker by Deniece Schofield. Thank you Monica Ashbrook for the great recommendation. In this episode we learn: - there is a ‘u’ in every excuse, what’s yours? - inventory is an essential part of uncovering what is no longer working - have a system for your consultation bag - taking 2 minutes to think before you act saves hours It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Flat fees vs. hourly fees—we could have this debate forever. While no system is perfect, Tim Williams, a professional marketing expert, believes value based flat fees provide a superior way to price for your expertise. In this episode we learn: - a service is always more valuable before it’s delivered - provide detailed assumptions in your contract - price in phases - avoid pricing your services to only cover your overhead - consider a razor and blades strategy for pricing 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 being on television (and so many design professionals have) than you’ll love hearing from guest expert Alli Mang. She is a multi-million dollar brand ambassador who knows how to sell. In fact, she wrote the book on it. Sold Out shares insights into peak performance selling in the high stakes environment of shopping channels. In this episode we learn: - sales is a main part of the job when you get yourself on tv - always sell the experience, rather than the object - film yourself selling mundane objects for 3 minutes, 30 minutes and 3 hours - in an audition you’ll have 3 seconds to sell yourself - always sell to a single person rather than to “everyone” - set an intention around who you want to sell products to It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

12,000,000 square feet of showrooms. Yup. 12 million. 180 buildings, 2,000 showrooms and 75,000 people—that’s what you’ll find when you get to High Point Market. If you’ve never been or you need to conquer the market this time, then listen to veteran market goers Marisa and Kimberley tell you how it’s done. In this episode we learn: - set your intentions ahead of time and include education, networking, buying and social time into your schedule - have a plan or you’ll end up running around in circles - group desired showrooms by building and schedule visits accordingly - stay organized and have a system for keeping photos, business cards and product info retrievable - wear comfy shoes and get social; lots of parties to attend - be present and include time for self-care 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™ provides independent designers, decorators, architects, stagers and landscapers with a systematic approach to client satisfaction. Relying on BOD™ 15 STEP Project Management Strategy to produce Satisfaction by Design™. In this two-part episode, Advocate in Chief and interior designer, Kimberley Seldon shares a week in the life of a project, focusing on STEP 10. In this episode we learn: - give yourself extra time for install days - it’s worth any amount of trouble to fix small annoyances during the STEP 10 - even when everything is planned to the last detail, be prepared for surprises - verify all appliances and mechanics are working before your clients arrive for the reveal 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’re a solopreneur, chances are you’ve fantasized about finding a partner who would take on all the challenges of running a business. For these lucky pairs, the fantasy became a reality. In part two of this two part series, we talk to Abby Smith and Abbey Ragsdale about how they make it work and what you should consider before you take a partner. In this episode we learn: - things to avoid when choosing a partner - prepare a business plan (partners and solo-preneurs) - a partnership creates natural accountability - choose a partner with a skillset that differs from your own - consider a test run, where you collaborate on a project before officially becoming partners - discuss all the contentious issues up front—salary needs and expectations, time off allotments, style of compromise, etc. 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™ provides independent designers, decorators, architects, stagers and landscapers with a systematic approach to client satisfaction. Relying on BOD™ 15 STEP Project Management Strategy to produce Satisfaction by Design™. In this episode, Advocate in Chief and interior designer, Kimberley Seldon shares a week in the life of a project, focusing on STEP 10. If you want to run projects like a boss, sign up for membership today. In this episode we learn: - even small projects have an exhaustive list of details to manage - there will always be a few holes to fill, so an extra day or two for the process is the difference between success and near-success - there is an art to organizing the movers for install days 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’re a solopreneur, chances are you’ve fantasized about finding a partner who would take on all the challenges of running a business. For these lucky pairs, the fantasy became a reality. In part one of this two part series we talk to Jessica Geller and Virginia Toledo about how they make it work and how you might find a partner of your own. In this episode we learn: - consider placing an ad to enlist help in your design firm, if it’s a great fit, then you can talk partnership - when the economy slows, it’s important to reassess who your clients are and appeal directly to them - you don’t necessarily want to choose a friend or family member as a partner - vet carefully anyone you want to introduce into your business; hire them on a project basis first - assign specific tasks to each partner, look for complementary skills - if there is an issue with your partner, deal with it directly - consider a non-designer as a partner, perhaps a contractor, builder, architect or landscaper 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 design matters and in this two part series with Healthy Building expert, Allan Lopes we’ll discuss key issues that differentiate your services from the competition, while simultaneously promoting health and well-being within your interior design and decorating projects. Your clients will thank you. In this episode we learn: - bathing water should be filtered for purity, the same way drinking water is - reducing electro-magnetic fields in the bedroom is good for sleeping - proper air-filtration is vital to health - consider an indoor garden or living plants to improve air quality and psychology Catch up on Part 1 of this series at: https://businessofdesign.com/podcasts/ep-123-building-in-wellness-part-1/ 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 and interior design professional Nathan Vanags shares his insights after logging his hours for the first time. Yes, logging hours can make you more effective, whether you are working on an hourly fee or flat fee basis. In this episode we learn: - carefully logging hours shows you how productive employees and independent contractors are - carefully logging hours allows you to gauge who needs more work and who is overwhelmed - carefully logging hours allows you to focus on one task at a time and succeed at that task - carefully logging hours allows you to gauge how much time you need for specific tasks - carefully logging hours forces you to complete tasks in the allotted time - consider incentives for team members to increase the number of billable hours (always with integrity) 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™ is turning 15! Since 2004 we’ve been educating, motivating and inspiring interior design professionals just like you. In honor of our upcoming birthday, Kimberley shares her 15 favorite Design Intervention™ moments from the BOD™ Podcast. In this episode we learn: - 5 reasons you should raise your rate - the value of knowing what you’re worth - the power of saying no - why confidence matters and how to get more of it 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 design matters and in this two-part series with healthy building expert, Allan Lopes we’ll discuss key issues that differentiate your services from the competition, while simultaneously promoting health and well-being within your client projects. In this episode we learn: - science suggests, a design that speaks to an individual rather than the masses and feels “personal”, is beneficial in a variety of psychological ways - bringing the concept of wellness into design projects will create a career that is purposeful - in rooms you use frequently, artificial lighting that mimics nature’s circadian rhythms promotes well-being - any time you take nature out of the equation, there is going to be an imbalance - speak to your electrician about the CRI (color rendering index) of the light bulbs you specify - products with formaldehyde off-gas for years following installation It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Trust is the elusive ingredient that creates a strong bond between the design professional and his/her client. Clearly defined boundaries and impeccable integrity allow trust to grow as a project moves forward. In this episode we learn: - trust is earned in incremental steps, through integrity and clearly defined boundaries - systems create definable benchmarks by which everyone on a project can measure trustworthiness - building trust with your clients begins with your website - honoring all timelines—written and verbal is essential to building trust - make it easy for your clients to reach you - ask potential clients why they are renovating/decorating now to uncover the emotional reasons behind the 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

Business of Design™ knows the success formula for creative professionals is 80% business + 20% creative. Once you get the 80% streamlined (hint: you do that by using the systems, protocols and strategies we teach at BOD™) you can lean into being creative. Specifying custom furniture on projects gives you an ideal opportunity to use those creative skills, elevate your brand and be more profitable. In this episode we learn: - the industry is changing, and designers can embrace some of the changes and learn to adapt to or get ahead of the others - systems improve efficiencies in all areas of your business, but especially when specifying custom furniture - custom furniture elevates your brand and makes you more profitable - be clear about how you work and don’t shy away from talking about fees, markups or anything else that allows you to stay in 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 Check out BuildLane at: http://bit.ly/buildlane

If being the boss doesn’t give you perks, then why be the boss? Listen to south Florida designer Jaime Galapo who talks about her transition from big corporate design firm to launching her own boutique business. In this episode we learn: - 5 strategies to support growth - it’s all about relationships, ask questions and show interest - your network is your net worth - outsource when you’re strapped for time - meet new trades on their existing job sites to see how they work - if being the boss doesn’t give you perks, then why be the boss? 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 the design industry it’s paramount to have a quality team of suppliers, trades, manufacturers and makers behind you, to make you look good. In addition, developing strong relationships and maintaining them with current and past clients is essential to grow long-term success and keep your pipeline filled. Melbourne designer, Tania Bell says effective networking is how to succeed. In this episode we learn: - you can learn to network effectively - it’s ok to lead with an authentic conversation opener—one that shows you are feeling vulnerable - be prepared with an exit strategy if the conversation isn’t what you are looking for - questions allow the other person to open up and get comfortable with you - create a system or procedure for how you look after referral partners - schedule regular phone calls, emails, texts, coffee catch ups or even lunch, so that you can keep a new contact in the loop - don’t feel compelled to answer design questions at a party or networking events - to meet new potential clients rely on the good word of family and friends It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Interior design professionals are frequently lauded in the media for the results we achieve. Too often though, how we achieve those results is relegated to the editing room floor. It seems we can’t rely on television reality shows, glossy magazines or social media influencers to tell our story. It’s a hero’s journey and it’s time we advocate for ourselves. In this episode we learn: - the value of sharing the whole design process with clients and potential clients; not just the good parts or the highlights real - why consumers have a hard time knowing who they can trust It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Yes, you can be a creative and a powerful business owner. Take it from creatives Weston and Cristy Blankenship. They lost everything (we’re talking bankruptcy and homelessness) only to find they could start again and succeed by setting a new intention and stepping up to the challenge of being the boss. You (right now, whatever your circumstance) have the power to change your business and your life. In this episode we learn: - It’s never a good idea to surrender your power - fear-based decisions are rarely constructive - a higher rate will push you to excel - the value of 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

The only way to hear the still small voice is to slow down. Of course, that’s easier said then done, like most worthy goals. In this episode we talk to a master craftsman about the process, the journey and the joy. In this episode we learn: - a slower approach to the creative process can yield surprising results and allow you to see and know more - consider and appreciate your origin story - maybe it’s time to use all the colors in the crayon box again - sometimes it’s good to just make a decision, regardless of whether it’s right or wrong - supporting and appreciating local artisans and craftspeople is good for all of us - perfection is an illusion; let that s^#t go - tell clients the story of special objects—how they are made and info about the artist It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Clients hire an interior design professional for a variety of reasons, but certainly they are looking for direction and guidance. Too often, designers hesitate to make strong recommendations out of fear or a lack of confidence. It’s time to own your projects and confidently make suggestions. In this episode we learn: - a secret weapon to boost your confidence at the presentation - too many options are never a good thing - it’s ok to hold firm and allow your client to consider your suggestion (don’t rush in to provide another option) - amp up your intake to learn more about clients - techniques for working through major resistance to ideas - how to get a yes out of clients 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 this episode, Kimberley explores her personal search for mindfulness. Is this a tool that can be used to keep you focused on tasks, and therefore more productive? Yes. Is it also a tool you can use to create a better experience for your clients? Absolutely. In this episode we learn: - to consider the stress that extra “stuff” can place on your consciousness - it may be time for a digital detox - how meditation can center and calm you - it’s ok to talk to clients about clutter - how to diplomatically help clients let go of items with sentimental value 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 people think being a parent is the toughest job there is—even tougher than running a design firm! In this episode, Kimberley asks interior designer and mother of five, Lindsay Kjellberg to share techniques that work as well at the office as they do at home. In this episode we learn: - protocols and systems make it possible to succeed every day - boundaries provide comfort and safety - limited choices provide comfort and safety - 100% honesty is not totally necessary - set expectations early and then stick to them It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Our suppliers and trusted resource providers can offer a wealth of insight into how to run our businesses more efficiently and profitably. Seeking their advice can save you from making costly mistakes and position you to succeed. In this episode we learn: - present the whole project (renovation and fixtures and furniture) to clients at one time - give clients an opportunity to know luxury—don’t deprive them - hold your opinion, even if a client is balking at the suggestion - systems, period - rely on specialists to know all the things you don’t (and can’t possibly) know - you don’t have to know everything; you just have to know who to ask It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Although we learned a lot in design school, many of us felt unprepared to run a business. It’s never too late to reengineer your business into what it might have been on day one. In this episode we learn: - to scale up, you must let go of some tasks - how clarity in all areas of business is achieved by implementing Business of Design™ 15 STEP Project Management Strategy™ - creating one system has a snowball effect that improves all adjacent tasks - an operations manual will save time and prevent chaos It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Although we learned a lot in design school, many of us felt unprepared to run a business. It’s never too late to reengineer your business into what it might have been on day one. In this episode we learn: - there are 2 ways to navigate your career - why clarity must come before strategy - how boundaries are only part of the solution to overwhelm - questions to consider before starting your business (or as soon as you hear this podcast) - should you start with a side hustle or go all 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

Occasionally we have snippets of great conversation which don’t make it past the editor to air on a podcast. Why waste great information? In this episode Kimberley shares random thoughts that have not yet been explored on the show. In this episode we learn: - don’t be afraid of failure, embrace the learning - accepting responsibility for everything that’s not working in your business will allow you to fix the problem and move forward - being vulnerable, even admitting failures can be freeing - the power of a mature business network - when it’s time to hire, don’t hire a mini-you It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

No one needs to be reminded that they are aging or have limitations. Our role as designers is to create functional, beautiful and safe environments for all of our clients, regardless of circumstances. In this episode we consider replacing aging in place with living in place. In this episode we learn: - replace negative terminology such as “grab bars” with neutral phrasing such as “towel bars” - comfort is key at every age and stage - when to use contrast and when to avoid it - how we can do better work for our clients through education To view the show notes on Erik’s 5 areas of the home to focus on when it comes to safety and comfort for all, head over to: https://businessofdesign.com/podcasts/ep-108-living-in-place/ It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Although we don’t always learn the lessons when they first present themselves, in hindsight, they were there. Kimberley discusses her very first design client and what she learned (or could have learned) back in 1991. In this episode we learn: - you determine your value and clients will oblige - clients value your expertise when you do - clients care about two things and you should care about those same things - professional hours look professional - the boss makes the rules It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Starting from ground zero with no clients and no formal training, we learn how one entrepreneur launched her design business using tactics she picked up in the entertainment field she worked in previously and applying her Business of Design membership. In this episode we learn: - a flexible business plan is a guide to growth and a catalyst to identifying what makes you stand out in the market - contrary to popular thought, not all designers see themselves as creative - a niche focus on young families is a long-term strategy for success - outsourcing can support fast growth - get comfortable with networking - consider a co-working space to surround yourself with other business owners It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

For some designers, a work space outside the home is a stamp of legitimacy. But a collective can offer so much more. It’s a safe place to discuss ongoing projects, a resource for new ideas and an opportunity to welcome clients into a professional atmosphere. In this episode BOD member LeAnne Bunnell She shares her journey running a cooperative work space. Then, we hear from Swati Goorha who runs a collective buying group with her partner Julie Anne Baur. If you’ve ever felt marginalized or squeezed by shrinking margins, you’ll love the conversation. In this episode we learn: - before you launch a collective, figure out what your intention is for the space - remember to allow for staff, visiting vendors and client meetings when determining the size of the collective you want to join or open - 5 must include considerations for your collective work space - consider how many members you need to meet the financial commitments - a buying collective can significantly increase profits on goods It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

How one designer’s five-year plan guided her to success. It’s never too late to create one for yourself. In this episode we learn: - sound legal advice, to guide you through the initial stages of setting up the business, can be really helpful - strategic, effective networking gets you customers and trades when you need them - drive through key neighorhoods to find trades who work nearby - in your first year in business, it’s ok to say yes to all the jobs, but get discerning as quickly as possible - as projects get bigger, you can begin to define your style aesthetic - strategies for billing out other team members - the advantage of hiring a bookkeeper early in your career For a copy of Stephanie's 5 Year Plan, go to: https://businessofdesign.com/podcasts/ep-104-5-year-plan/ It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Trying to be all things to all people is the surest way to confuse your ideal customer. Be authentic and see how quickly your best-fit clients will find you. Your vibe is your tribe. Own it. In this episode we learn: - a narrow brand helps you find your tribe - identifying your ideal client is critical to your success - limit social media posts to brand appropriate content - editing past posts is time consuming but may be worthwhile - avoid divisive topics online, nothing is private - clients may be watching and yet not engage - undercharging will get you what you ask for It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Community over competition—that’s the spirit behind cooperative work spaces created specifically for designers. In this compilation episode we hear from Business of Design member Tawni Peterson, who is thinking of creating a collective and wants to know what she should expect. We then hear from other BOD members who are currently in cooperative work spaces, running cooperative work spaces or about to launch such a venture. In this 2-part episode we’ll also learn about collective buying partnerships. Lots to learn in EP 102 and EP 105. In this episode we learn: - the pros and cons of collective work spaces - the client experience of entering such a space - vulnerability is where the magic happens - getting to know your competition is good for you and for them - consider your brand when choosing location and amenities - a mixed co-op (multiple businesses represented) is a viable choice 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 this solo episode Kimberley shares a recent experience where breaking her own rules turned out to be the worst possible choice. A choice that resulted in the loss of a project and lessons learned (again). In this episode we learn: - it takes courage to let go of a project that isn’t serving you well - how to spot the red flags that might make you rethink your position on a project - how to talk to trades when a project is lost It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Sydney designer Adam Scougall did what so many budding designers have dreamed about—he made the transition from the corporate world into a full-time design career. Yay!! Adam shares his insights as a business owner before and after implementing Business of Design’s 15 Step Project Management Strategy. In this episode we learn: - how the right contract will get you the best clients - STEP 4 requires discipline, but it’s worth the effort - once you have a rule or protocol, stick to it - not billing for time spent (regardless of reason) will hurt you in the end - how to deal with styling when you can’t borrow items - who’s in charge when you’re not the project manager 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 seems like everyone is switching from hourly fees to flat fees. Is it as easy as it sounds? Listen to Business Design member Jamie Ivey, who recently made the switch. In this episode we learn: - perils of working with a flat fee vs. an hourly fee - too many projects may mean you are charging too little money - there are some advantages to working in commercial vs. residential when it comes to flat fees - condo lobbies can be a perfect place to test out your flat fee skills - only doing consultations is a great career choice for people who want to avoid a project management role It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

To sustain the work we do as creatives, we must learn to sell ourselves and our services. That isn’t always easy for us “non-selly” types. Fortunately, there are some simple sales strategies that we can use immediately. In this episode we learn: - actionable sales strategies to close the deal - when we help customers visualize the outcome, it’s easier for them to buy - clients are not buying furniture and fixtures, they are buying the outcome you provide - to remind a potential client why they phoned you, ask them what about your work resonated with them - creating a win-win situation involves assertiveness - it’s not possible to sustain yourself if you are not earning a living - it’s possible to work really hard and make little or no money - if you are too busy it’s a great time to raise your rate - identify your own money baggage 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 the most difficult habits to break become a super power when you turn them around. If you’ve ever had to bust through a habit that wasn’t serving your business well, you’ll relate to our three podcast guests. Thank you to Business of Design members Elizabeth Scruggs, Christie Leu and Yaron Linett. The candid sharing and perseverance these people share is inspiring. In this episode we learn: - install a scheduling app on your website for those seeking a consultation or those hoping to pick your brain - being a female contractor is an advantage for many clients; it might be worth looking into licensing - start with a bookkeeper if you want to grow your business quickly - consider advertising on Craig’s List when you are looking to hire - systems and procedures are the surest way to relieve yourself of micro managing - when growing your social media following specifically to gain more clients, make sure you constantly aware of who you are posting for 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 was it like to work for Kimberley Seldon before she had her systems and procedures in place? In this courageous episode, Kimberley interviews a designer from her past. Someone who used to work for her and is now a member of Business of Design. In this episode we learn: - track your time in 15-minute increments every day, and bill for every minute - develop strong and loyal relationships with your vendors and they'll come through for you - employees prefer money over gifts (gifts don’t pay the bills) - ensure your contract clearly explains how you price goods and services so there are no surprises - commit to firm dates with clients and stick to them to demonstrate integrity and build trust 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 your potential client is not converting to a paid customer, it’s possible your brand is broken. Fortunately, a brand audit, to identify weak spots, can fix the issue and increase the benefits of your marketing efforts. In this episode we learn: - a brand audit considers the metrics of marketing efforts - how to create a streamlined message between diverse media channels - how to determine if your brand is broken - making beautiful rooms is not a point of differentiation - six stages to audit your brand It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast