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

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

If you’re like most designers (Kimberley admits to being guilty of this) you have been thinking about Instagram as a place to socialize with others who love design, rather than a place to market to future customers. This episode, and the next month of focus at Business of Design, will change all that. Let’s all grow our Instagram accounts with purpose. In this episode we learn: - there is a difference between using Instagram for social enjoyment and strategically using it as a marketing platform - the difference between stories and the static feed - how to create themes and make posting more strategic - why it’s quality, not quantity that matters when it comes to followers - it’s possible to modify your bio with a dedicated call to action To take Elise's FREE Instagram Masterclass, visit: https://businessofdesign.com/podcasts/ep-094-instagram-as-a-marketing-platform/ 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 staging professionals have a unique skill set homeowners and real estate agents benefit from, there are many intersections between their work and the work of other design professionals. In this conversation we learn about some of the strategies that make stagers successful. In this episode we learn: - having a design background can be helpful for staging, but it’s not always necessary - less is more with staging - the job is to appeal to a wide audience, not to the homeowner - listing minimum pricing on your website creates transparency - marketing to real estate agents is critical to continued work - systems for planning, packing, unpacking and processing orders are critical 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 too long, many of us have acted as if the purpose of our life is to fuel our business, when in fact, it’s just the opposite. Your business should be fuelling your life and funding your lifestyle. No business can do that successfully unless it’s run efficiently and effectively. In this episode Kimberley shares her top 10 Best Business Practices. In this episode we learn: - systems create and maintain order - pre-qualifying clients leads to less time on the phone, more time spent in meaningful projects - why impeccable integrity delivers a good night’s sleep - how evaluating your current practices allows you to make better decisions - why firm deadlines can free up valuable 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

The path to a successful interior design firm is not always linear. Many approach a design career after working successfully in another field. Some take a detour along the way. That’s exactly what happened to Houston designer Sherry Millien, who took 7 years off to advocate for her daughter. Her years as an advocate provided the valuable communication and organizational skills necessary to run multi-facetted projects successfully between clients, trades, and vendors. In this episode we learn: - designers need to communicate and advocate effectively with for our clients - choose your battles, you don’t have to win every battle to win the war - always ask questions and don't mistake silence for agreement - if it’s not written, it is not said - enter a conversation with the intention to listen more than to be heard - meet people where they are, not where you think they should be. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Any barrier to your success is most likely self-imposed. Are you ready and willing to push through to a new level? Are you ready to take responsibility for everything that happens in your business? It’s time to set an intention for 2019 and bust through barriers to success. In this episode we learn: - you deserve more life out of your business - you are the only obstacle to success - Kimberley’s top 5 barriers to success and how to bust through them - the best way to nurture your creativity is to create systems and procedures to streamline all the vital tasks required to succeed - being able to offer clients a quality experience nets the biggest dividends It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Balance can seem like an unattainable ideal. However, developing the habit of self-assessment and being willing to ask for help can put you into greater alignment and fan your passion for business. In this episode we learn: - “balance” may look different for each of us - take stock every six months, to assess what is working and what isn’t - a lack of balance takes a toll on creativity - a hobby that’s creative but not related (crafting, photography) can feed your soul - a healthy, mature support group can be a powerful motor to keep your business running smoothly. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Design is a competitive industry filled with thousands of designers who create jaw dropping designs. To stand out, it’s vital to create a spectacular service experience—not just during the holidays, but all year round. In this episode we learn: - three key factors to creating a spectacular client experience every day of the year - asking for constructive feedback is important to improving your systems - how to show appreciation to clients with holiday gifts - why a consumable gift or experience may be your best choice - to make it personal when it comes to gift-giving It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast Thank you to our sponsor! Check out http://business.article.com/

Ever thought about placing a Google ad to attract the right clients? Seattle interior designer Faith Sheridan did more than that—she placed the ad…and it worked! Lucky for us, she’s sharing everything she’s learned in the process. In this episode we learn: - it’s worth trying something new when you feel you hit a slump - negative key words (terms you do not want clients to find you through) are as important as key words - you will set a budget and the ad will run until your budget is used - prior to placing ads, consider who your ideal client is and target that person specifically - transparency with fees drives the right customers your way - quality is more important than quantity when it comes to ad hits - use any software you like—it’s a tool—you will still need systems and procedures It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast Thank you to our sponsor! Check out http://business.article.com/

Stepping in front of an audience to talk about design can be thrilling and terrifying. It can also be a total waste of time if you don’t prepare yourself for the task at hand. In this episode we learn: - before you agree to speak at an industry event or to a group of potential clients, get clear on why you are doing it—set an intention around what you want to accomplish - telling stories and sharing anecdotes will create a connection between you and the audience - stepping out on a limb (high stakes) is a great position from which to try something new - clients don’t need to change, we need to change - there is nothing special about people who have “made it”—systems will change your life It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast Thank you to our sponsor! Check out http://business.article.com/

When it’s time to say, “I’m sorry,” to a client, there are strategic ways to make it count. Own it, express regret and take responsibility. In this episode we learn: - entering “victim” mode prevents us from growing into powerful business owners - plug loop holes in your procedures that put you in a position of vulnerability - avoid words like if and but in your apology - when the situation is resolved, take time to reflect on how to avoid a repeated episode in future - explore best and worst-case scenarios - have difficult conversations face-to-face It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast Thank you to our sponsor! Check out http://business.article.com/

The formula for success is still 80% business + 20% creative. However, there’s room for some woo woo attributes within the 80%. In this episode we explore vital characteristics of the successful design pro, such as integrity, intention, confidence and reflection. In this episode we learn: - balance isn’t necessarily the goal, but equilibrium is - powerful business lessons are expensive - be clear about your expectations with clients - set a goal and then leave the outcome to the universe - there is no such thing as a design emergency It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

You are master of your own destiny. You are a business owner. Yes, there are risks to making this choice, but there are also rewards. In the second part of our conversation with Craig Cody we continue to explore ways to make the financial rewards even sweeter, by keeping more cash at the end of each fiscal year. In this episode we learn: - choosing the right retirement plan can leave you with more money later - hire family members to gain big tax advantages - medical benefits can save thousands - a deduction does not always equate to a benefit, talk to your tax professional about your thresholds - regular communication (once a month) with your tax professional can prevent overpaying in taxes It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Hear what a client has to say about keeping in touch, building a relationship, and the heartbreak that comes from working with a designer whose integrity goes MIA. In this episode we learn: - it’s reassuring to clients to know you are thinking about them, during and after the project - a client’s perspective on some unsuccessful designer relationships - having a healthy rapport with the client is vitally important but it does not substitute for a job well done - there’s a distinction between a corporate holiday basket and a spontaneous check-in call It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Heart and soul. That’s what the typical interior design professional puts into the job. However, what happens when the payoff doesn’t match all that you give to the work? Maryland designer Juliette Palarea describes hitting bottom and rethinking her entire career. In this episode we learn: - being vulnerable gets to more authentic conversations with peers and creates space for new ideas - stopping old behaviors is easiest when you replace them with new (better) behaviors - stepping out on a limb (high stakes) is a great position from which to try something new - clients don’t need to change, we need to change - there is nothing special about people who have “made it”—systems will change your life It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

You are master of your own destiny. You are a business owner. Yes, there are risks to making this choice, but there are also rewards. In the first of a two-part conversation we explore ways to make the financial rewards even sweeter, by keeping more cash at the end of each fiscal year. In this episode we learn: - it’s critical to have a system for reviewing vital numbers - that understanding how your marketing dollars are working (or aren’t) is the best way to spend wisely - why it’s good to watch where your biggest revenue comes from - a quarterly check-in with your accountant pays real dividends - to talk to an attorney and your accountant for the most comprehensive advice when it comes to incorporating - how to use your home office deduction and help pay for that home gym or pool 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 happy in your career? Most of us don’t take time to even ask this important question. The bills have to be paid and we’re so busy already, who has time for reflection? Looking squarely at what you love about your current work/life situation (and what you hate) provides valuable insights that lead to powerful changes. In this episode we learn: - a dramatic breakdown, although uncomfortable, can give you clarity around your career - get clarity first, then move on to strategy - experiment with scheduling—many professionals prefer blocking tasks by day, rather than by hour - create the schedule you want, even if it’s unconventional - to determine where you stress spot is and then learn how to relax it - to notice the yearning to add something new to your existing career - how to own your inner Molly Ringwald - identify your hell-no client and a hell-yes client Find out more about Sarah Vermunt, get access to the Free Careergam Crash Course and (bonus!) download the first 40 pages of the Careergasm book. It's all here... bit.ly/bod-ep079 It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Role-playing is one of the most effective tools for increasing your confidence. By having rote answers that you’ve rehearsed and memorized, you can answer questions that sometimes feel intimidating. In this episode, BOD member, Michelle Binette, turns the tables on Kimberley by asking typical client questions. Some of the answers may surprise you. In this episode we learn: - when a potential client phones, sell the consultation, not the project - how to prevent clients who do not have a sufficient budget from calling, or to prompt them to increase the budget once they do call - how to ask clients for the job - how to say no to the wrong client/project - a reasonable amount to charge with a living room decorating project - why it’s important to read your contract to the client (line by line!) It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

More mistakes? Yup. We’ve all made them. In this episode, a continuation of EP 070, we are going to hear from another Business of Design member on mistakes she’s made as well as how to own them, how to solve them and how to avoid them. In this episode we learn: - get a great script to vet clients - take control of when you onboard clients - to let yourself consider, what’s the worst that can happen, as a way to keep yourself calm - to make an apology without a lot of fuss or drama - always do a debrief at the summation of a project - consider giving potential hires a task to complete as part of the interview process 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 possible for the professional designer to control the conversation when it comes to our skill set? What precisely separates the professional from the non-professional? It’s a challenging question, but Business of Design members Gail M. Davis and Courtney McLeod dig into the topic. In this episode we learn: - a high-end home purchase does not necessarily translate into high-end decorating budget - why a consult fee and solid hourly rate will save you from clients who aren’t right or ready for you - that six-figures (we’re talking salary not income) isn’t the end goal, it’s the starting goal - it’s helpful to ask clients up front, ‘have you worked with a designer before?’ DESIGN INTERVENTION Gail suggests hiring a branding coach. She works with a group on a monthly basis through Nicole Heymer at Curio Electro. Courtney loves her Vision/Goal/Task Strategy. - Vision is big picture, soul of your business - Goals are set quarterly - Tasks are narrowly defined and tackled each month. At Business of Design we call this a Design for Living. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Sustainability has been a buzzword in the design world for years and it makes sense that we want to offer our clients options that are earth friendly. In this episode we take that commitment to another level as Kimberley explores ethical (non-animal source) options for leather and fur with a “vegan designer”. In this episode we learn: - ethical options exist, making it easy to offer this to clients - in some cases the price point is higher, but that won’t deter all clients - ethical design may be a worthwhile niche to add to your existing offerings Find out more and get a promo code to save 20% on the Vegan Design, CEU Accredited course at bit.ly/bod-ep075. 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 committed are you? We usually think of commitment as a great quality, but what if you are committed to things/systems/procedures/behaviors that aren’t working effectively? It takes courage and drive to turn around when you know you’re going down a path that will never lead to success. In this episode we learn: - how a switch from a well-known behavior can be scary, but still worthwhile - how to determine if you have too many clients - when it’s time to take action - how to notify clients of an impending fees increase It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Not every designer loves the idea of working with trades or carrying the responsibility of a large renovation. There are lots of ways, as the owner of the company, to create a business that works for you. One Business of Design enthusiast shares how she works with clients during the planning stage, but then allows them to mange the renovations on their own. In this episode we learn: - there are a multitude of ways to set up your business so it satisfies you, as the owner - determining what you love to do and eliminating tasks that stress you out is a great way to create a more satisfying career - sometimes it’s ok to “leave money on the table” (make sure you know how much money you’re talking about) - test yourself, can you beat the timeline our guest provides It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

At Business of Design we believe that working together as collaborators is a better way to get ahead as an individuals. Listen in to this conversation from NYC where three design advocates explore how we can lift the whole industry. In this episode we learn: - when we collaborate, we help each other run better businesses - being on an island has less upside than collaborating—don’t do this on your own - giving trade references to other designers will keep your best trades working - to be cautious about where your data is stored when working with sensitive information - not all advice is good advice so be choosy - there is no limit to what you can charge—providing you are delivering a great result 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 carry enormous risk and liability doing their jobs day in and day out. Nowhere is that more evident than when it comes to providing electrical work. Listen and learn from Steve Smith of the Electrical Safety Authority. In this episode we learn: - advanced planning provides you with enough time to collaborate with the experts you are working with - always getting the proper permits for every job adds a layer of protection - before presenting to the client, talk to your trades about what you have planned—they will give you the information and the confidence you need to talk to clients - be careful with internet or off-shore purchases—they may not be compliant with regulations in your state or province - knowing the difference in color temperature and in types of bulbs can improve your projects—rely on your LEC to guide 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

More mistakes? Yup. We’ve all made them. In this episode, and subsequently in EP 077, we are going to hear from two Business of Design members on mistakes they’ve made and how they solved them and recovered. In this episode we learn: - it’s important to establish the point person (who gets to make the final decision) - never deviate from important protocol, like how to present STEP 5 - include your policy for custom items in your contract - watch out for “friending” clients, keep it 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

Most of us are conditioned to think that confidence comes from accomplishments—succeeding at work, finding a partner, getting fit, making money, or climbing Mt. Everest. Although it’s a natural assumption, because we’re all taught to believe that external accomplishments create confidence. That’s why we look at people who have achieved what we want to achieve or have what we want, and we assume they must feel great about themselves. But here’s the shocking truth: Your external accomplishments don’t actually create confidence. Confidence expert and coach, Kara Loewentheil tells us what really works. In this episode we learn: - Practicing better thought work helps us avoid the flight or fight - we don’t have to know everything - you get hired, because you know how to figure tasks out, not because you know everything - focus on the RESULT the client will have at the end - remember, sometimes not having to do a bothersome task is a RESULT of hiring you too 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’s your policy? For most of us, the policies or rules we rely on are those which serve to protect us from an unpleasant circumstance, such as not getting paid, or working on weekends, or being liable for something we have no control over. It’s worth maintaining and protecting those policies, even if, or especially if you are a solopreneur. In this episode we learn: - using WE language can boost your confidence - sticking to your policies does not typically mean losing the client - negotiating your policies often leads to further negotiations - it’s worthwhile developing a firm policy around business hours, invoicing and collections, consultation fees, trade relations etc. - specific language to protect your policies 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 that good looks matter. But outside appearances never tell the whole story. With many items—sofas, chairs, pillows, bedding—what’s inside is equally important. In this episode we’ll talk about quality and value and building a better bed. In this episode we learn: - clients want good looking rooms, but they also want functionality, performance and value - educating your clients about value is an ongoing job - if your clients are asking for the “cheapest” bedding (or anything else)then - never show clients too many options - update a poor mattress with a feather bed It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

A lack of confidence can undermine any effort to be truly successful. Although most of us recognize we aren’t as confident as we’d like to be, we remain blissfully unaware of how we camouflage this lack of confidence, thus ensuring it continues to thrive. This episode is for the warrior designer in you! In this episode we learn: - the key to creating the career you want is confidence - we are all taught that confidence is created by external accomplishments, but that is wrong—confidence is created by your thoughts - when you are responsible for creating business for yourself, you HAVE to have your mindset right - the best tool to use for confidence is to practice neutral to positive thoughts; use thoughts you can believe NOW, not positive thoughts you don’t believe at all - the best tool to use for sales/consult conversations is to create value and communicate that value—emphasize your RESULTS - build your confidence by changing your thoughts It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Bravery is a job requirement. Surrounding yourself with trades and suppliers who make you look good is part of a successful strategy. It’s also important to be courageous when it comes to presenting that luxury item to your clients. Don’t stop your clients from falling in love with a splurge; show it to them and let them decide. In this episode we learn: - use your trade and supplier reps to do more work for you - navigating tax laws can be challenging but you need to fill out the proper forms or orders may be delayed - consider paying taxes as you go to save on paperwork - get the money part out of the way right up front, be clear and concise - know your worth and get help when it comes to communicating that - don’t hold clients back from falling in love with something expensive It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Don’t think for a moment that your salary or income is the “extra” or it’s not as important as that of your higher earning spouse or partner. That is guaranteed to keep you playing small. “Fun money is more fun when there’s plenty of it.” Kimberley Seldon Is it possible you are holding yourself back; playing small to avoid having to step up? It’s time to embrace your inner design warrior goddess. In this episode we learn: - not to automatically assume responsibility for every mistake - how to ask situational questions at the client intake meeting - to prepare clients in advance for anything that’s likely to be challenging - that using third party stories can illustrate how easily projects can go off the rails, and how dedicated you are to making the situation right - it’s ok to hit the pause button if a situation becomes heated 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 listening in to the BOD podcast each week, you’re already motivated to get your business in shape. But if you want to transform your business and really see results, you need more than motivation, you need a gym for your business. In this episode we learn: - realistic goals - manage your own expectations when it comes to working on your business - to schedule it - treat learning like a client meeting (it’s equally important!) - where to start - build a foundation to build a stronger business - proper form – take the guess work out of systems - accountability is key – where to find support 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 is the secret sauce to running a mature, profitable, award-winning design firm? Systems! There’s no getting around it. Kimberley and LuAnn Nigara discuss their fave topic: systems and procedures. In this episode we learn: - time blocking is critical to strategy and planning - if the client doesn’t accept your value (as indicated by price) then they should not be able to benefit from your value (as evidenced by your skills) - when a project goes awry it’s usually because something wasn’t communicated at the beginning - establishing a commitment to core values will amplify your brand message 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 a decision to be excellent isn’t enough. To excel, you must take action to change the day to day issues that aren’t working in your business. Listen in to a series of private coaching calls where the talented and hardworking owner and her team share their experiences with the all-too-familiar bottlenecking that happens at the office. In this episode we learn: - implementation is the only way to success - you run a “proper” firm, the moment you believe that you are - there are multiple excuses that can keep you stuck - delegating is harder than it sounds It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast