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

In this episode, we consider immediate dilemmas facing interior design professionals right now. Rather than guess at how clients are feeling, Kimberley goes straight to the source and asks one of her clients to share her insights with our community. In this episode we learn: - how to advise clients who are ready to move forward with a project - how to prepare clients for what might happen a few months down the road - how to diplomatically ask for payment on overdue accounts (not if you are using BOD™ 15 STEP Project Management Strategy) - don’t make assumptions about what clients want or are willing to do now - use levity to soften an awkward conversation - share your own vulnerability and awkwardness 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 determined to survive the impending recession by fine-tuning your systems and procedures? Designer Alexa Ralff is. This busy and talented designer shares her insights and strategies for success now and in the future. Spoiler alert—it’s all about process. In this episode we learn: - double down on your processes - reconnect with old clients by text or email - update existing clients with what’s next with your business - post photos of your office on insta to remind people you’re working - post photos of your favorite installs as a reminder of your fab work fab It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Now, more than ever, your ability to survive the impending recession will depend on the quality of your business decisions today. Entrepreneurial expert, David C. Baker shares some insights into what is to come and what to avoid. In this episode we learn: - what does it mean to be a lagging indicator - resist the urge to widen your positioning - resist the urge to chase cash, rather than profits - get ready to make the tough decisions It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Effectively immediately, BOD™ is supplementing its regularly scheduled podcasts with ongoing BOD™ Business Alert podcasts. The BOD™ Business Alerts will focus on narrow topics that are relative to you right now and drop with greater frequency than our weekly BOD™ Podcast programming. 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 it wasn’t a straight path, Kimberley’s journey as an interior designer took her on an adventure that ultimately lead to Business of Design™. Design Coach, Andrew Mitchell asks Kimberley about her history as a designer and how it led to this amazing community of members. In this episode we learn: - systems will change your life - mistakes are costly and painful; however they are exceptional opportunities for learning - education is essential and the learning never stops 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 just discovered Business of Design™ or you’re sitting on the fence because making changes seems overwhelming, listen to Kimberley’s advice on how to get started. In this episode we learn: - start where you are; tackle your biggest pain points first - take BOD™ 15 STEP Project Management Strategy in order from 1-15 - confidence comes from systems 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 run a design business for any length of time, you know the stakes are high. There are bound to be mistakes along the way, but strategic goals can keep you on a path that ultimately leads to success. In this episode we learn: - goal setting is important because - long-, medium- and short-term goals keep you moving - the value of BIG goals - attachment vs detachment - how to get into action 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 is possible for interior design professionals to develop close and meaningful relationships with architects, but it requires a greater understanding of what each professional contributes. Spoiler alert, designers do more than pick furniture. In this episode we learn: - the best projects employ a full team from day one - developers often lead the project, hiring an architect for structure and then no one for interiors - big egos get in the way of a successful project - lots of problems are resolved by agreement around who is acting as project lead 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 is possible to earn the respect of clients and trades while charging what you’re worth. Possible, but rarely easy. Pricing for Creativity author, Blair Enns and Kimberley Seldon discuss the merits of value-based pricing, while anticipating some of the largest obstacles in this two-part conversation. In this episode we learn: - the value we pass on as designer’s is (in part) a feeling—the client feels elated when the project is complete - the biggest asset of value-based fee model is extraordinary profits - profitability is a test you must pass - act like a professional, lead the client through 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

Time spent on social media, provided there’s a targeted sales method in place, can attract ideal clients who want to buy the services you provide. In this episode, we learn a simple strategy for growing and maintaining a sales funnel that gets results. In this episode we learn: - a simple plan for getting traction on social media - a step by step process for creating a sales funnel - what a lead magnet can do - the power of the niche - what modern newsletters should look like 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 is possible to earn the respect of clients and trades while charging what you’re worth. Possible, but rarely easy. Pricing for Creativity author, Blair Enns and Kimberley Seldon discuss the merits of value-based pricing, while anticipating some of the largest obstacles in this two-part conversation. In this episode we learn: - make sure your brand is not positioned as a commodity - a client’s real power is hiring an alternative to you - a designer’s real power stems from self-esteem - always rely on policy, rather than feeling or inclination It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Kimberley shares insights from Business of Design™ Conference | Las Vegas. In this episode we learn: - why an operations manual is right for you - why a checklist for ordering custom furniture will change your life - how important it is to stay on the beam and not break your own rules - why you need to be confident, to be the expert - you can make seven figures as a design professional 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 create a fully satisfying client experience with each design project, consider all five senses. In this episode we learn: - sight—colours, patterns, prints, contrasts of light and dark - scent—aromas that evoke a mood and eliminating unpleasant odors - touch—varied texture on the walls, floors and furniture - sound—pleasant background music, comfortable acoustics and the elimination of unpleasant noise or anything that impedes hearing - taste—consider selection of plates, cutlery and glassware to enhance the taste of food and beverage 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 are benefits to creating a business plan—even if you’re already in business for yourself. Consider these five checkpoints to creating a robust creative offering. In this episode we learn: - interview existing clients (or clients you wish you had) to uncover primary motivations and pain points—two valuable pieces of information that will allow you to shape your best offer - identify your ideal client and then focus exclusively on marketing to that person - narrow your focus to what your ideal customer wants and needs (not what you want to sell) - establish the value of your offer—use price as a differentiator - test your "offer" with people who fit your ideal client profile - when pricing, start where the market is (not lower!) It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Too many go into business with an idealized or romantic view of what it’s going to be like to “be the boss”. If you’ve been talking about the benefits of owning your own business but not living the benefits, this episode is for you. In this episode we learn: - the common lies we tell ourselves about owning a business - how to take control of your life as the boss - being the boss is a choice - the difference between a job and a 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

What makes an ideal client, how t0 charge for the “magic” we provide, and a fabulous way to stay connected or reconnect with clients. Award winning Australian designer, Marylou Sobel, has questions in part two of this episode. In this episode we learn: - narrow your focus to grow - follow BOD™ 15 Step Project Management Strategy as prescribed - send a survey to clients to gain valuable insights - delegate more so you can concentrate on designing It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

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