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

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

As entrepreneurs in the world of design, we all stand to gain so much by working together and lifting one another up. Value and worth are an inside job. In this episode Kimberley talks to Laura Martin Bovard about how we can find and channel the mature business owner we dream of becoming. In this episode we learn: - that holding each other accountable to play a bigger game serves the industry as a whole - that resolve can assist you in asking for and getting what you deserve - if you have a “jobby” rather than a career, resolve to change, now - structures and quality systems get you to a place of beauty It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Take a road trip to Los Angeles with Business of Design. On this podcast you’ll listen in to the question and answer portion of our BOD LA Meet up. In this episode we learn: - how to say no to a project after you’ve completed the consultation - clarify, verify, triple check—when you’re not the project manager - work repeatedly with same suppliers to develop strong relationships - effective hiring relies on systems - a contract tells your clients how work will progress and provides a disincentive to litigation (in the unlikely event something goes wrong) It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Layered, methodical growth is the most effective way to increase and enhance your business. Building your A team, finding efficiencies, learning to delegate and knowing when to let go are all part of the process of incremental growth. In this episode we learn: - to set time aside time for strategy and planning - take time off from the business to change your perspective - create a culture of inspiration for the team and an open feedback loop - when is it time to grow It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Schooling offers only a small percentage of what is needed to succeed in business. The rest is on the job training. And talent, does not equal success. Instead, you’ll need to rely on structure (systems and procedures) to make it in business. In this episode we learn: - working for someone else is a great way to learn your craft - a home office is a viable way to get started as an owner, and it is not a reason for charging a low fee - talent does not equal success - to be successful you will need to live with rules and regulations - you do not have to agree with your client, have an opinion 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 and 30 of its awesome members travelled to North Carolina for High Point Market this week (April 2018). More than 100 designers sat in on a round table discussion that included a classic Kimberley moment, “You can watch a video on YouTube and learn how to give yourself a relaxing massage, or you can go to the Four Seasons and have Sven do it. These are two different experiences and only one leads to you wanting a cigarette afterwards.” In this episode we learn: - Having an hourly fee and billing that fee are two different things - If you don't show the client the expensive item that will really make a difference in their house, they are not going to buy it - When you raise your rates, it does not require a long-winded explanation It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Manufacturers must compete if they want to stay in business. It’s their imperative. We all know they are now selling directly to consumers. There’s not stopping it. However, it needn’t worry the professional design firm unduly. There are ways to define your services and attract those clients who have the means and the desire to turn a project over to a professional. In this episode we learn: - manufacturers must sell to stay in business - designers can increase profit margins with strategic buying - the impetus to market is on the 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

In this episode we learn: - what is eco-marketing - five steps to grow your social media following - widening your base means reaching out to peers you don’t know - creating an editorial calendar can provide focus and direction - how many times should you be posting and to what TAKE AWAYS Natalie recommends, finding out which publications her target market reads and aim for special interest that is not necessarily interior design related. For example, perhaps they all read the LA times or the New Orleans Picayune. Focus on getting published there. Consider golf magazines or travel magazines like Departures. Five steps to grow your social media following: 1. Create a content (editorial) calendar. 2. Develop a posting schedule, with specifics. 3. Post professional photos frequently. 4. Post images that are light, crisp and bright for better traction. 5. Engage frequently with your audience. It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Ever felt sure you’d made it, only to find yourself wondering how to pay the rent a few months later? Or, were so busy you couldn’t breathe and then you realized there were no new jobs in the pipeline? Recognized and acclaimed actors sometimes feel the same way. In this episode we learn: - that it’s normal to think you may never work again - why we can expect career peaks and valleys - how to deal with professional envy - why it’s dangerous to compare someone’s outsides with your insides Design Intervention Christine says, sometimes the only power we have as artists is to say no. Say no to the job that won’t satisfy you. Say no to an opportunity that doesn’t feel right. Saying no can be a powerful way to shape your destiny. 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 space isn’t finished until it’s ready to photograph, right? But photography can’t happen if you are looking at a room full of gorgeous furniture and blank walls. Since buying art can be intimidating—not just for your clients, but also for you as the design professional, we turn to expert art advisor Katherine Earnhardt for tips on how to make the whole process successful and enjoyable. In this episode we learn: - why art is important - the emotional benefit to clients when art is in place - how artwork completes the space and increases revenue - how emerging artists can meet clients’ budgets - better ways to discuss art with clients - ways to use a client’s own artwork when it isn’t right for the key areas 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 today’s web savvy world, there is no way to prevent clients from shopping you. Or is there? With this helpful guide, you’ll be able to avoid the worst of getting shopped by clients. In this episode we learn: - there is no way to prevent clients from shopping you, but you can minimize it - transparency develops trust and provides clients with confidence in your ability to manage their project - what it takes to tighten up your image so clients will trust you more quickly It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Strategic planning can take your business to a sweet spot where the fewest possible number of clients leads to the greatest number of benefits. Designer Carly Waters discusses how she hones her approach on social media to appeal to those few clients who are just right for her. In this episode we learn: - to use your own space to create a portfolio when you start out - how getting more clients may be less appealing than getting better clients - the advantages of creating a single vision so it's easy for your ideal clients to find you - being selective about clients is a privilege and it's a worthy goal - that editing your former Insta posts can create a more streamline image - to ask for work from friends and family - to host a party at your client's finished home/condo 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 taking advantage of everything LinkedIn has to offer? Susan Kates shares her tips for strengthening your LinkedIn profile. In this episode we learn: - how consistency across all platforms will improve your brand - differentiating between all the social media platforms, what to use when - it’s worthwhile to research the key words that describe what you do and who you are, create a slogan - client surveys can help you narrow your focus - set an intention around how you want your LI profile will work for 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

Independent interior design firms can create robust marketing plans that speak to the passion, talent and business acumen clients are looking to hire. In this episode Maury Riad of Fuigo shares some fundamentals for marketing. In this episode we learn: - we can protect the artistic legacy of our community and market our independent businesses - differentiating between all the social media platforms, what to use when - a three-pronged approach to solid marketing - how to build awareness, credibility and trust, making it easier for clients to hire 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

Industry disruption, mysterious mergers and what does it mean for you, the design professional? No, the sky is not falling, but it may be time to pivot and take a more active approach to marketing and managing your business. In this episode, we hear from two industry peers who have a different take on this month's big merger between Houzz and Ivy. In this episode we learn: - that historical behavior is a good indicator of future behavior - it's important to read the terms of service before jumping onto a new platform (and keep a copy of the agreement when you signed up) - you are not a victim, you have choices 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 see you. Hiding there in plain sight. Step out in front of the spotlight says designer Rachel Moriarty. She’s got tips to immediately improve your visibility on line and in front of potential clients. In this episode we learn: - key to success is being authentic enough to attract those clients who will love working with you - how to develop Know Love Trust with potential clients - start talking, live videos will get you an immediate audience - why investing in yourself can pay off big It’s time to take control of your business. Become a member of Business of Design®, today: https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

After months of hard work everything is on the line with the client reveal. How to set this moment up for success is Kimberley’s topic today. In this episode we learn: - you can’t run a marathon your first day out on the track, nor can you create projects that run smoothly if you start with STEP 11 - why having the client onsite for STEP 10 is a big mistake - what gifts are appropriate for the big client 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