Explore every episode of the podcast Designer's Oasis
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #90 | How to Create A Paid Waitlist for Interior Design Clients | 05 Sep 2024 | 00:22:48 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today's episode, I walk interior designers through why I believe that a paid waitlist is a good idea when you have that ideal client you want to work with but you just aren't able to take them on immediately. By creating a paid waitlist opportunity, you offer both yourself and the client the ability to commit to working together. I have found that clients who are willing to be put on a waitlist, are going to naturally prioritize design over a timeline, which is exactly who I want to work with. I use a paid waitlist anytime I can't start on a project for at least 4 - 6 weeks. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #89 | That's Not Working Anymore - How to Pivot In Business | 29 Aug 2024 | 00:27:25 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint "Pivoting is a sign of growth" In today's episode, I share why we sometimes need to pivot in business and then dive into how we can pivot. Often, when it comes to our own business, we find that we get stuck doing the same things repeatedly even if they aren't working anymore. Just a few scenarios where this may happen include being unrealistic with client budgets, timelines, and expectations or our systems for creating and developing proposals and presentations. When we take some time to reflect on how we are doing specific tasks in our business, we find that they aren't as effective as they may have once been and it's time to pivot. This may include small micro-changes or it may involve big sweeping changes. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #88 | What You Need to Know Before Starting an Interior Design Business | 27 Jun 2024 | 00:37:38 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today's episode, I am answering a listener question for our #dearkate entries! This question comes from Melissa, who wants to know about starting their own business? Melissa says: "Interior design has been a part of my life for decades. But I haven't worked in this field professionally. After graduating from an interior design program, I'm considering going right for it and opening my own design firm. I feel confident in my ability to design for clients. However, I feel uneasy not having any real world professional experience. I want to do right by my clients and enjoy my second career as much as possible. What do you think I need to know before deciding to go for it? PS thank you so much for sharing valuable specific insights on the podcast. I have learned so much from you. And I'm so grateful." Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #87 | Publicity and Marketing Strategies for Interior Designers with Selena Soo | 20 Jun 2024 | 00:45:24 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today's episode, I chat with Selena Soo and Sharon Stokes. Selena Soo is a publicity and marketing strategist for visionary entrepreneurs and experts who has helped clients and students get featured in places like Domino, The Oprah Magazine, Forbes and Inc, and land interviews on popular podcasts and national television. Joining her today is Sharon Stokes, her head of publicity programs and senior media coach who has served as a TV producer for close to 20 years, producing interviews with notable personalities, including Oprah, Richard Branson, Marie Forleo, and Gabrielle Bernstein. I have personally worked with Sharon and Selena and my very first publicity pitch after working with them was accepted, and featured in Domino! In today's episode we chat all about the best ways to get featured and gain the publicity you want for your interior design business. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #86 | Big Thinking to Create an Extraordinary Interior Design Business with Andrea Liebross | 13 Jun 2024 | 01:01:11 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today's episode, I am joined by Andrea Liebross, a dynamic business and life coach who specializes in empowering unapologetically ambitious women entrepreneurs. Andrea is not only a seasoned speaker but also the insightful host of the Time to Level Up podcast. With a unique approach, Andrea guides her clients to merge Big Thinking with robust systems, creating a powerful synergy that propels them toward success. Her mission is to help women entrepreneurs not only achieve their goals but also unlock the freedom of time, money, and energy they passionately seek. In September 2023, Andrea achieved a remarkable milestone by releasing a best-selling book, "She Thinks Big: The Entrepreneurial Woman’s Guide to Moving Past the Messy Middle and into the Extraordinary," accompanied by a transformative workbook. Through her work, Andrea has become a beacon of inspiration for those navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, offering practical insights and strategies to navigate the journey from uncertainty to extraordinary success. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #85 | Is SketchUp Pro Good for Interior Designers with Tammy Cody | 06 Jun 2024 | 00:47:08 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today's episode, I'm catching up with Tammy Cody, founder and instructor at SketchUp for Interior Designers where she has taught 1000's of interior designers exclusively for over a decade how to master SketchUp so they can streamline their productivity while producing beautiful and organized drawing sets to accurately convey their ideas to clients and contractors. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #84 | Turning Tragedy into Light with Interior Designer Britt Davis | 30 May 2024 | 01:04:53 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today's episode, I sat down with the very talented, warm, smart, and creative, Britt Davis of Art & Adorn in Charlotesville Virginia. Britt is mother to 4 kids, she's an artist, interior designer, event planner, and retreat host at her farm - Glentivar Farm. Twice a year she and her best friend Molly Crouch who you can find in this episode host a day-long retreat for women called Tonic and Bloom. The retreat is a day of pause and reflection where guests can enjoy a variety of "tonics" such as exploring the farm, reading, resting, soaking in the pool, making art, and getting a massage. All while being fed delish farm fresh food prepared by Britt and Molly's husbands. I asked Britt to join me this month specifically as we are celebrating Mental Health Awareness month. Britt and I discuss mental health, navigating life as an Enneagram 7, building an interior design and event business, all while raising kids. There is a brief discussion of suicide which may be distressing or triggering for some individuals. I want to remind you that there are resources available. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, you don't have to go through this alone. Please seek support from a mental health professional, a trusted person, or a crisis support service. We have linked to resources below. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #83 | How to Balance Creativity and Entrepreneurship in your Interior Design Business with Amber Guyton | 23 May 2024 | 01:06:15 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today's episode, I got to sit down and chat with Amber Guyton, the creative mind behind Blessed Little Bungalow. She's a marketer, a Financial Services Advisor turned blogger, influencer interior designer, and now a collaborator with companies like World Market and Mitchell Black, where she recently launched a beautiful line of wallpapers. Her work has been featured in HGTV Magazine, House Beautiful, Forbes Architectural Digest, Ebony Apartment Therapy, Domino, Atlanta Homes and Lifestyle, and many more. Amber's designs are beautiful color-filled homes that she designs exclusively for her clients, both locally and nationwide. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #82 | How To Harness the Power of Transitional Moments in your Life with Cerissa McKinnis | 16 May 2024 | 00:50:05 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today's episode, I'm catching up with Cerissa McKinnis of Industrious Interiors in San Antonio Texas who offers luxury kitchen and bath design and whole home transformations. She's a long-time member inside the Interior Designer's Business Blueprint but today we are talking about a book she's written - Navigating the Liminal Places: How to harness the power of transitional moments in your life. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #81 | Real Talk about Managing Anxiety and Growing your Interior Design Business with Christina Canales | 09 May 2024 | 01:00:47 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today's episode, Christina Canales joins me to discuss the importance of building a successful interior design business through fostering relationships with vendors and clients, and collaborating with other designers. We dive into the value of communication, mutual support, and taking back control of the sales process to navigate challenges. We share strategies for managing anxiety and impostor syndrome, including perspective-taking, reframing negative thoughts, and recognizing that these feelings are common and fixable. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #80 | 8 Problem Solving Strategies for Interior Designers When Things Go Wrong | 02 May 2024 | 00:43:38 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Have you ever had a client who is questioning your most recent invoice, they want to do something outside of your contract terms, or they misunderstood information? So what can you do to salvage the relationships? In today's episode, I tackle a listener question on how to handle challenging client situations. I'm sharing 8 strategies that can help you in ANY sticky situation and hopefully bring a resolution without sacrificing your dignity or your income. If you haven't yet faced a challenging client situation, you simply haven't been in business long enough. Certainly, these situations are minimized with the more experience you have because you know what to look for, and how to circumvent issues that arise, and you have more confidence to take the wheel on projects. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #79 | 3 Bookkeeping Mistakes Interior Designers Make with Morgan Boudreaux | 25 Apr 2024 | 00:58:32 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint The messes never clean themselves up but somebody who knows what they're doing has to get in there to help kind of right this ship. In today's episode, Morgan Boudreaux, from Business by the Book, a full-service accounting firm that works directly with interior designers across the country joins me. Business by the Books started as a family-run business founded by Morgan's mother, Sherry Wilson. Today they have a team of bookkeepers who are passionate about taking care of financial tasks so that their clients can do the things that they love, design, create and build successful businesses, and spend time with their families. They have been my personal and trusted bookkeepers for four years and I can share firsthand the difference when working with their team who truly understands finances around interior design businesses. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #54 | Revenue Generating Activities for Interior Designers [REPLAY] | 22 Aug 2024 | 00:26:11 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Energy begets energy. Money is energy. If we know that energy begets energy, what happens in your business when you sit down and you spend the time to commit some energy towards revenue generating activities and lead generating activities? In today’s episode we are talking about revenue-generating activities and what that means, how and when to do these activities and how they keep your business thriving! This episode was inspired by a listener question that we received from Julia, “Hi Kate, I’ve followed your advice and starting batching my days so that I have more focus and not drawn in 100 different directions at once. I’ve set aside Mondays as my Marketing & Money Mondays. The problem is, I don’t always know what to do with this dedicated time. Can you provide some specific examples of revenue generating activities that I can be focusing on during this time? Thanks so much. I appreciate everything.”
Here’s a glance at the episode:
Mentioned in this episode:
🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint Have a question you want to ask Kate? Head over to designersoasis.com/askkate. We want to hear from you. We particularly love helping you with mindset shifts, dealing with tricky situations, and all things interior design business related. WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer)
FOLLOW ALONG 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/54 | |||
| #78 | How to Handle Financial Ebbs and Flows in your Interior Design Business with Jenny Karlsson | 18 Apr 2024 | 01:12:09 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today's episode, we have a returning guest, and my friend Jenny Karlsson - a certified money coach helping creative entrepreneurs develop practical financial resilience and stability strategies. She's also the creator of the Money Compass Deck, a tangible tool to help you cultivate your connection with money. Jenny offers a safe, shame-free environment to help creatives develop a healthy relationship with money so that they can experience greater ease and freedom. Today, we are exploring the idea of financial resilience - what it is and how we can employ certain strategies daily to help us strengthen our relationship with money while handling the ebbs and flows of being an entrepreneur. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| [REPLAY] #43 | 7 Money Routines for Interior Designers | 11 Apr 2024 | 00:37:23 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today’s episode I want to share the 7 money tips that I live by as an interior designer! Maybe finances come easy for you or maybe you’re more like me where it needs to be built into your schedule and you need a clear list of what needs to be done, what needs attention, and what to focus on. Here’s a glance at this episode…
Resources mentioned in this episode:
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| #77 | Financial Strategies for Interior Designers with Carla Titus | 04 Apr 2024 | 00:56:14 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint On today's episode, Carla Titus, the founder and CEO of Wealth & Worth Within shares about finances, scaling, profitability, and her mission to empower business owners to take control of their finances to grow profits, have cash in the bank, and pay themselves, so they can build personal wealth. Carla loves working with interior designers to help them achieve financial clarity and peace of mind so you can get back to the work you enjoy doing. Working as a fractional CFO, Carla can consult with interior designers looking to grow their business profitability and scaling their businesses sustainably. In this episode, we discuss how to use hiring, outsourcing, contractors and more to build additional revenue streams and scale your business in a manageable way. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #76 | Finding Your Differentiator to Build a Successful Interior Design Business with Katie Gutierrez | 28 Mar 2024 | 01:06:24 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today's episode, I interviewed Katie Gutierrez, the creator of Biographical Design, an interior design system that uses the client's biographies as the foundation of her six-step design process. She also has a customer relationship management tool that helps interior designers increase their exposure and lead engagement called the My Gotcha App. In this episode, we take time to delve into the intricacies of work-life balance and intentionality within the design business. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #75 | Copywriting Strategies for Interior Design Websites with Masha Koyen | 21 Mar 2024 | 01:01:23 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint If you capture what really matters to your clients, your copy will be gold and resonate with the audience. When it comes to copywriting, if you try to speak to everyone, you end up speaking to no one. If you don't have a clearly defined audience in mind when you're creating copy, your message ends up diluted and can feel all over the place. In today's episode, I am joined by Masha Koyen of Content Vertical where she offers strategic website copywriting services to designers all over the world. Masha uses a data-driven approach to uncover the secrets to what makes your ideal client tick and then writes compelling copy that speaks directly to them through your website. Masha joins us today to help us all understand the importance of tailoring your message and how to just get started. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #74 | 20 Time Saving Tips for Interior Designers | 14 Mar 2024 | 01:00:44 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint What is most important is that you start to recognize the value of your time. Discovering the value of your time includes understanding how important it is to manage, control, and protect it while still remaining flexible as a business owner. In today's episode, we dive deep into time-saving tips tailored specifically for interior designers that will help you handle minor inefficiencies so that you can spend your time in your zone of genius and the areas that are revenue-generating. We'll cover the top areas that tend to take up time - sourcing, email management, and general time management. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #73 | 3 Mindset Shifts for Pricing Your Services with Confidence | 07 Mar 2024 | 00:24:43 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint You don't need to justify or explain your rates or your prices when presenting them. You just need to show your value. In today's episode, I share three mindset shifts that will help you confidently price your services and reframe your mindset when presenting your pricing. Let’s dive into the top 3 mindset shifts you should make to reframe your mindset regarding pricing. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #72 | How to know if you're ready to scale your interior design business? | 29 Feb 2024 | 00:38:55 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint When we think about scaling a business, the first thing that typically comes to mind is “How can I get more project work”? Maybe you’re currently taking 8-10 projects a year, so you ask yourself, “How can I increase that to 12-15 per year?” Taking on more projects is indeed going to generate more revenue and help you grow your portfolio, AND it takes more resources (i.e. time from you, growing a team, investing in your business, etc,) Sometimes, the real question is, “How can I generate more revenue”? “How can I grow the business? “ Generating more revenue is a GOAL and scaling is just one STRATEGY to get there. In today’s episode, we are going to talk about both. We’ll discuss the strategies you can use to increase your revenue without scaling and we’ll discuss what it takes if you decide you are going to scale Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #71 | How to Run a Successful Family-Owned Interior Design Business | 22 Feb 2024 | 01:07:08 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today's episode, I have a conversation all about the unconventional path to interior design success with the mother-daughter duo Susan and Jillian Hayward. We discuss all of the shared experiences, challenges, and collaboration along the way. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #70 | Sustainable Style: How to Incorporate Sustainability in your Interior Design Projects | 15 Feb 2024 | 00:40:16 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In this episode, we dive deep into crucial aspects of interior design, focusing on pricing strategies, time management, and the imperative shift toward sustainability. I advocate for responsible design leadership and share my journey toward a more sustainable approach. Here’s a glance at this episode:
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| #52 | 5 things I'd do differently if I was starting from scratch [REPLAY] | 15 Aug 2024 | 00:26:06 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Today’s episode is all about looking back and sharing with you all the 5 things I would do differently if I was starting from scratch again. I reflected back on what I would tell a new interior designer getting started in the industry. Here’s a glance at the episode:
Mentioned in this episode: 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) FOLLOW ALONG 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/52 | |||
| #69 | Interior Design Entrepreneurship, Career Growth, and Client Relationships with Tina Guevara | 08 Feb 2024 | 01:13:54 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In today’s episode, I interview Tina Guevara, owner of Juliette Sebastian Interiors and a member of the Designer’s Oasis program to share experiences and tips for building a thriving interior design business. Here’s a glance at the episode:
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| #68 | Mission, Vision, and Impact in 2024 | 01 Feb 2024 | 00:35:34 | |
I believe in a rising tide that when one of us does well we all do better. I love sharing this space with other amazing interior designers and can’t wait for what’s in store! In today's episode, I share my vision for where we are headed in 2024 and the impact that we can have as interior designers. I want to share a little bit about what we're going to be doing here on the podcast, inside the Designers Oasis community, and the topics and guests we are bringing on. One big part of this is a survey we are launching TODAY to all interior designers to gain insight into pricing, time estimates, and more. The goal is to help provide data points to help you confidently price your services and estimate your time based on industry standards. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #67 | 47 Gift Ideas for Interior Design Clients | 30 Nov 2023 | 00:38:26 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint I feel strongly that when we share our gratitude through gifting with clients and the people that we work with it's a good feeling and it makes us feel good as well. In today's episode, I share my love of gift-giving by sharing how to show gratitude through gifting clients and colleagues plus the positive impact that giving others gifts can have on your mental health and even your business success. So, think about your budget, get yourself organized, and get out there and start gifting. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #66 | Gratitude in Business - The Ripple Effect | 23 Nov 2023 | 00:23:32 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint When you share gratitude openly with others, it starts to have a ripple effect and it can help you to feel good too, even when there are uncertain times (and there are many!) Gratitude is this amazing, free thing you have available to you at any time, all the time, no matter what. In today's episode, I share the power of gratitude in business and how it can help to create a sense of belonging and connection to our work and to the other contributors to our business(es). Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #65 | How to Style an Interior Photoshoot for Magazines | 16 Nov 2023 | 00:39:12 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Spending time styling and preparing for a photo shoot with a professional photographer is key. Finding a photographer who can capture interior photos from different angles to bring a room to life is such an important part of curating a great interior design portfolio. In today's episode, I share all of my best tips and advice for styling an interior photoshoot for magazines and publications. Here’s a glance at this episode…
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| #64 | 3 Mindset Shifts to Grow a Successful Interior Design Business | 09 Nov 2023 | 00:49:45 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Have you ever gotten yourself a big project or call from a big deal client and thought to yourself, I don't think I have what it takes to take on this project? What if instead, you got curious and asked yourself, what would it take to be successful with this project? Who do I need on my team? What do I need to learn? In today's episode, I share 3 mindset shifts to start using so that you can run your business through a lens of curiosity, leading to a business that will expand, thrive, and grow. Here's a glance at this episode:
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| #63 | Transitioning to an Interior Design Career with Libby Rawes | 02 Nov 2023 | 00:50:44 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Starting an interior design business is easy, but growing an interior design business is so much harder because you just don't know all the answers and sometimes it's using your own intuition. In today's episode, I chatted with Libby Rawes about how she successfully transitioned into an interior design business and what it took to really make the career shift from branding to interior design. Here's a glance at this episode:
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| #62 | 3 Commitments You Need to Make to Build a Profitable Interior Design Business | 26 Oct 2023 | 00:54:46 | |
Building an interior design business that is profitable takes hard work but it is figure-outable. Today's episode is all the 3 commitments that you need to make to build your interior design business in a way that is profitable without setting yourself up for burnout and taking on too much to get there. In this episode, we turn the tables, and Katie Gutierrez, from Biographical Design interviews yours truly! Here’s a glance at this episode… 👉 We discuss overcoming financial struggles in a business partnership. 👉 We share our experiences with pivoting a design business from feeling overwhelmed to thriving. 👉 We dive into how to create profitability and creativity in your business. 👉 We touch on how to manage time, finances and marketing as a creative business owner. 👉 We share how to track metrics and which types of metrics you should be tracking, including project profitability and costs. Mentioned in this episode:
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| #61 | How to Serve Clients Well Without Being On 24/7 | 19 Oct 2023 | 00:30:12 | |
Interior Designers Business Blueprint Serving clients well and building an interior design business with excellent communication can be done without always being available. Today's episode is all about how to create systems, processes, and communication that allow clients to feel nurtured and cared for without having to always be ON and responsive in the moment. This doesn't come naturally for most of us. Here's a glance at this episode: [5:40] I share examples of when a client may reach out for something that seems "urgent" and how it can truly interrupt your flow. I also share strategies for how to handle these situations. [9:50] I discuss ways to set boundaries with clients from the start that allow you to share some of your boundaries (holidays, working hours, etc) initially prior to signing a contract. [12:05] I dive into how to set up communication guidelines with your clients around when they can communicate with you and expect a response along with how they can communicate with you (text, email, etc). I also share how to leverage your team to help with communication. [16:45] I share my thoughts about response time and when a client can expect a response from you. I share how I respond even if it's quick to acknowledge a client's concern and share when they can expect a more detailed response. I also dive into a little bit about how we handle responses with autoresponders and commonly asked questions. [21:37] I jump into how project management tools can help ease communication and allow clients access to information and concerns they may have. I also share the ways that we update our clients regularly to help answer the questions that may come up before they even have to ask. [27:10] I discuss how and when I share with my clients when I am going to be away for more than a day or two. I encourage you to take time off and truly give yourself permission to take the time off when you need it in a way that truly allows you to relax (and allows for you to tap into your creativity!) Mentioned in this episode:
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| [REPLAY] #33 | 4 Ways Designer's leave money on the table | 12 Oct 2023 | 00:28:02 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Ask yourself, what would happen in your business if you started to take up a little more space. If you continuously look for ways to move the needle even in small ways a little more each and every day. Those little needle-moving actions and behaviors over time add up to huge success. That’s what we’re going to jump into today to keep you from leaving money on the table. Here’s a glance at this episode… [03:45] I introduce the idea of taking up more space and moving the needle in your interior design business. [04:30] I share how a follow-up strategy in your business can help create more time and make sure that deadlines, communication and follow-ups are taken care of in a timely manner. [09:09] I discuss what happens when you give clients only what they ask when you know you could do better for them. [16:28] I share how to ensure you are not under-charging for your time. I talk about how to audit your projects, track your time and make sure you are paid for your time. [23:15] I talk about how to make sure you leave no dead-ends at the end of a project by asking for referrals, testimonials, and making sure to wrap up the project well. [26:00] I wrap up the episode with a few needle-moving activities to get you thinking!
Mentioned in this episode:
WANT MORE? - Template Shop - 10% off ANYTHING in the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) FOLLOW ALONG - Instagram ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** "I Love the Designer's Oasis Podcast" <-- Does this sound like you? If so please consider rating & reviewing my show. This helps support the show so I can continue to make more episodes just like this to support you and other designers. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! FOLLOW this podcast so you never miss an episode! Follow Now EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/33
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| #50 | 3 Reasons Interior Designers Stay Stuck and Broke [REPLAY] | 08 Aug 2024 | 00:32:23 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Have you been at this a while, but for some reason you can’t seem to either get to that next level revenue goal you’ve set and you feel stuck at the level you’re at? Today’s episode is all about the habits that keep you stuck and broke. Those habits that keep holding you back and are keeping you from really thriving in your business. I want to share what I see often that keeps interior designers in a perpetual loop and how to make mindset shifts to really make some adjustments and gain some clarity. Here’s a glance at the episode:
Mentioned in this episode:
🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) FOLLOW ALONG 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/50 | |||
| [REPLAY] # 32 | 7 Red Flags You Shouldn't Ignore | 05 Oct 2023 | 00:47:55 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Too often designers either miss red flags due to a lack of experience or choose to ignore them because they are eager for the work or the client was a referral from someone you know. They may be in your circle of friends or community and the hard question is really what do you do with these red flags? Today’s episode will shed some light on what to look for and how to handle the most common red flags. Here’s a glance at this episode… [04:20] I jump into how you can start to spot red flags BEFORE engaging with a client on a long-term basis. [07:15] I start with the red flag of a potential client trying to negotiate your contract, how to stand your ground, and how to believe in your services and the contract you’ve spent time putting together. [12:08] Indecisiveness in a client can make a project extremely difficult. I dive into why it’s not about how much information or time they need, but their ability to make a decision in the end. [18:26] I share about discounts! Discounts on services, products, etc. and why this can be a red flag to handle head-on from the start. [25:50] I talk all about boundaries ranging from communication to expected response times to setting expectations [28:52] I discuss how a client who “ghosts” you or continually takes a long time to respond can be a red flag while also throwing off milestone dates and delivery dates. [33:00] I share about having and finding clients who truly respect the process. [36:13] I discuss reading a potential client’s tone and paying attention to how you feel with the general communication to see if working with them may be a red flag. [45:50] I wrap up with the good and bad news and how identifying red flags early can help you make room for the perfect client that is out there for you.
Mentioned in this episode: WANT MORE? - Template Shop - 10% off ANYTHING in the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) FOLLOW ALONG - Instagram ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** "I Love the Designer's Oasis Podcast" <-- Does this sound like you? If so please consider rating & reviewing my show. This helps support the show so I can continue to make more episodes just like this to support you and other designers. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! FOLLOW this podcast so you never miss an episode! Follow Now EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/32
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| #60 | 4 Phase Success Path for Interior Designers | 28 Sep 2023 | 00:41:24 | |
I want you to have clarity in where you're heading and what you're focused on right now. In today's episode, I share my 4 phase success path for interior designers to help you know what to focus on right now, gaining clarity on where you're heading and want to go without getting stuck in the comparison game with those around you Here's a glance at this episode: [4:44] I share how to figure out where you may be on your success path and remind you that you have time! You control your time and where you can focus so we dive into what that may look like for you. [7:47] I share what the four phases of the success path are and how to figure out what area(s) you may be in currently. [10:30] I discuss what you may be thinking, feeling, and doing if you are in the Launching Phase of the success path. I share what your next steps may be, and what milestones to look for. [17:23] I move into what the Establishing Phase of the success path entails including creating your project management systems, time tracking, and what your processes are evolving into as you take on more projects. [24:25] I share what you may be working on and developing in the Growing Phase of your success path. [33:35] I jump into the Refining Phase and how this usually involves scaling, how and why you may want to take this step. Mentioned in this episode:
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| #59 | How to Develop a Rock Solid Concept Design | 21 Sep 2023 | 00:24:09 | |
When you're a good listener to your client's needs, wishes, and visions, your clients naturally are excited and share this with their friends - making them natural evangelists for your work before you even finish the project. In today's episode, I share how to develop a rock-solid concept design phase for your clients and how important it can be to truly utilize in getting your clients excited and ready for their project. Here's a glance at the episode: [11:26] I dive into the concept design phase, analysis paralysis, and what the concept design phase is really all about [13:15] I discuss what so many interior designers leave out when it comes to concept design and how important it is for key decisions moving forward. [17:03] I share a few examples of how important getting client questions and feedback answered during the concept design can make a big difference in what direction you go, and what products you're sourcing, as well as save everyone more time. [19:35] I share what 4 items are included in the concept design phase and why you need to include all of these. Mentioned in this episode:
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| #58 | 2 Metrics Every Designer Should be Tracking | 14 Sep 2023 | 00:31:06 | |
I did not become an interior designer to sit around and crunch numbers all day..... but numbers tell a story! As interior designers, we can get caught up in the design work and avoid the numbers and need to track a few key metrics to really understand our business. In this episode, I share the 2 key metrics that I use in my business and why they are the most important to track. Here's a glance at this episode: [9:15] I jump into why it's important to track certain numbers and why this information is critical! [11:12] I share all about conversion rates and what your typical client journey looks like. I talk all about each step of the journey and how to track conversions at each step along the way. [15:25] I discuss how looking at conversion rates can help you pinpoint what still needs work and where potential clients may fall through the cracks. This helps determine what changes to focus on. [19:09] I talk about Average Project Profitability (APP) and why this is the second key metric I believe interior designers should be tracking. [25:20] I dive into how knowing your APP can help you determine which types of projects are the most profitable for you, which projects you may want to focus on more, and what needs improvement to increase profitability. Mentioned in this episode:
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| #57 | Leveling up: When Being Scrappy Doesn't Work Anymore | 07 Sep 2023 | 00:28:37 | |
Are you ready to really grow your business but you're still running it like you did on day one? Today’s episode is all about creating the type of business you have always wanted. It's time to level up, create systems, and save you time and money all while forming a pipeline of client work that truly lights you up each day. Here’s a glance at the episode: [11:50] I jump into when you know it's time to stop being "scrappy" in your business but rather a time to start truly investing in your business. You never outgrow the need to invest in your business or yourself. [15:23] I share the signs to look for to let you know that it may be time to invest in your business. [19:15] I discuss what I'm NOT talking about in terms of investing in your business without strategy. I share how to determine what is and is not a good investment in your business. [22:06] I share what happens when you're ready to start leveling up and investing. I talk about the changes in your business and mindset when this happens. [25:00] I wrap up with a few questions for you to think about to help you know what to invest in first or next. Mentioned in this episode:
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| [REPLAY] #9 | How Hiring Can Help Your Bottom Line | 31 Aug 2023 | 00:25:56 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Your first hire will always be the hardest. It’s kind of like having a baby. Imagine this - You just returned from a much-deserved 2-week holiday with your favorite person or people and while you were away one(or perhaps all) of these things happened…
Sounds pretty good yeah? I’m here to tell you that this level of support, and growth is totally doable. I’ll share the ins and outs of hiring in your business in today’s episode. In this episode, we answer questions like…
Here’s a glance at this episode… [06:50] I jump into how hiring can help your bottom line and the various ways it can greatly benefit your business. [14:50] How do you know who to hire first? I share how to figure out what your needs are and what type of hire you need to make first! [18:30] I walk you through the types of employees vs contractors and why you may want to hire each type, the pros and cons, and all of your options. [22:15]] My challenge to you this week: Write your job description of the role you want to hire first or next. Define the skill sets they need to have, describe the environment, and what kind of experience they need to possess. 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) FOLLOW ALONG 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/9 | |||
| #56 | How to Get Your BRAND Story Straight with Ericka Saurit | 24 Aug 2023 | 00:59:13 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint
Today I’m chatting with Ericka Saurit of Saurit Creative, a STRATEGIC BRAND MARKETING + STORYTELLING for interior designers and home brands. Ericka believes that HOW you tell your story matters. It needs to be clear, concise, and consitent. She’s on a mission to help interior designers clarify their value and get that message out. Ericka shares the 3 pillars that you have to understand and get right - in order to shift from being a business to a brand. Here’s a glance at the episode: [5:37] Ericka shares her backstory and how she got into teaching storytelling for interior designers and the home industry. [13:45] We discuss the importance of brand storytelling and how it shows up across your work from your website and social media all the way into your proposals, emails, and correspondence with your clients. [18:10] Ericka shares what most interior designers underestimate or leave out when storytelling and how we have to think about if we are a business or a brand. She discusses how to create a brand where clients want to choose you. [24:00] We discuss the need for consistency across your brand storytelling and how important it is in what clients and potential clients remember us for. [29:10] Ericka shares with us the 3 E’s of taking a business strategy and creating a brand. [36:00] We discuss the importance of taking time to craft your storytelling without rushing through the process. There is so much more to creating a brand than just getting a really great logo and website up. [44:26] I ask Ericka to share what shifts an interior designer will feel when you really nail down your brand in terms of your business strategy and creating content. Mentioned in this episode: 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) FOLLOW ALONG 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/56 | |||
| [REPLAY] #26 | How to Raise your Rates without the “ick” | 17 Aug 2023 | 00:15:07 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Be willing to own your experience and the value that you bring to your clients and projects. If you feel you’re worth what you're charging, so will your clients! Want to raise your design rates? Your costs have increased and it’s time you raise your rates to match this. It’s tempting to put our emotions into these decisions but today is all about sharing how to make this a little easier! In this episode, we discuss things like…
Here’s a glance at this episode… [05:13] I share about how you could gradually increase existing clients as you increase your rates to newer clients coming in. Remember: not all clients have to be at the same rate.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint
WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer)
FOLLOW ALONG 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/26 | |||
| [REPLAY] #7 | 3 Ways to Price Your Projects | 10 Aug 2023 | 00:34:04 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In order to know your profitability at the end of a project, it’s helpful to see what you estimated in the first place. Just like a budget for money, we need to budget our time.
Today’s topic is one of the most asked questions that I get about building your interior design business and that’s how to price your projects and come up with your service fees and feel more confident in your proposals when you send them out. In this episode, we answer questions like…
Here’s a glance at this episode… [05:22] Do you need to track your time? Is this important regardless of your fee and pricing method?
Resources mentioned in this episode:
🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint
WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer)
FOLLOW ALONG 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/7
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| [REPLAY] #1 | 3 Core Truths about Running a Design Business | 03 Aug 2023 | 00:27:53 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint “You don’t have to get it right. You just have to get it going.” – Mike Litman In this episode I share:
Here’s a Glance at this Episode: [1:40] Why podcasting? I share how if you’re anything like me, you listen on the go, fitting in during kids’ practices/lessons/pickups or while doing laundry, cleaning the house or a million other things. You’re a busy guy or gal! [3:20] A little background on me. I’m just a regular old girl! I share my background while living in Austin. I share how I was running out of time to decide what I wanted to major in. Then I learned that there was an “Intro to Interior Design'' summer course at my local community college. I instantly knew that would be my path. I share my early life with my “weekend designer” single mom and how we moved a lot - I mean - a lot 18x’s in 18 years. [6:00} I share about my internship with a high - end designer in Austin. We even did a $1M Boat Dock and how I then found my way to Denver working for OZ Architecture. It was a dream. Great team, Energy, buzz, Imagine scenes from The Intern - set designed by Nancy Myers. [7:20] I had my first baby and returned to work - severely sleep deprived! - and people started to notice. I thought I was going to get fired. At this point my husband suggested maybe I should go to work for myself - I didn’t see that potential in myself. But he did. [8:30] I did it! I went to work for myself. I share what I didn’t have going for me and then what I DID have going for me! Where did I start? What problems did I encounter? How and why did it “click”? [10:00] My business was growing but I was getting burnt out! The running a business part of the design business along with the client work was exhausting. So I had to figure out what to do to “fix” this. I needed to charge more and I knew I provided great service. [12:15} I will tell you what I did (not all at once) but I will share the top 3 things that I did to transform my business. Spoiler: I share much of what I learned inside my Designer’s Oasis Membership. [17:42] This is what I want you to know. These are 3 very simple truths I will stand behind until the day that I die. If you can get behind these ideas too, the sky's the limit for you. [18:00] Core Truth #1 - You don’t need to have it all figured out. You will never have all your ducks in a row, so you just need to get going! [20:15] Core Truth #2 : There is No one-size fits all for running your design business. Design the business that works within what YOU want. That may be full-home design, specific room design, designer for a day, or agency work - it’s up to you! [22:00] Core Truth #3 - Everyone (including you) has a unique set of skills, background, expertise that adds a unique twist to your design POV. It's up to you to uncover this and tell that story. Listen in as I share examples of members inside the Designer’s Oasis Membership and their unique backgrounds. What is your story? [24:48] Recap of the core truths
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer)
FOLLOW ALONG 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/1 | |||
| #8 | Services & Pricing Guide - Why your Business Needs On [REPLAY] | 01 Aug 2024 | 00:28:27 | |
Years ago, I had a wonderful Discovery Call with a photographer who I was interviewing for a project. When we wrapped up, she sent me a drop-dead gorgeous PDF that showcased her work and also broke down her process and all of the investment details. She offered premium services and it was a huge investment for me. I wasn’t ready to commit over the phone; however, after spending time reviewing the guide she sent, I decided to proceed and guess what…she got the job. It was at this point, that I decided, I needed to create my own guide, which I call the “Services & Investment Guide.” And let me tell you my friend, it has been a game changer in my business. I convert more potential leads into happily paying clients faster and with greater ease. In this episode we answer questions like…
Here’s a glance at this episode… [05:05] We discuss how I use the guide in my Discovery Call to complement what we discuss and what may be ideal for their project. [06:30] I share 3 things the Design Services and Investment Guide helps you achieve in your business. [09:50] I start answering some of the commonly asked questions like “isn’t this info already on my website?” and why this guide is necessary to help present the right information at the right time. [11:50] How is the Design Service and Investment Guide different than your Welcome Guide? I share a few reasons why I use both and how they differ. [13:52] I jump into what is included, how to create, and how to grab a template if you don’t want to start from scratch! [24:58] My Challenge for you this week! If you don’t already have a Services and Investment guide for your business, get started on that this week! Resources mentioned in this episode:
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| #55 | Is this Popular Advice Crushing Your Interior Design Business? | 27 Jul 2023 | 00:20:02 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Is popular advice crushing your interior design business? Do you sometimes find that the advice you hear doesn’t seem to fit your business? Today’s episode is all about some popular advice that may be crushing your interior design business. I’m putting my stake in the ground on what I feel about some popular advice for interior designers and where I stand on these topics.
Here’s a glance at the episode: [2:50] I jump in with the notion that you have to have just one ideal client avatar and why I believe you often need variations of this avatar for each service that you provide. [6:42] I share why flat fee is not always the best way to charge for your projects and why I don’t believe there is ONE best way but rather how I believe in the nuances of the business and having the ability to charge based on the type of project. [13:03] I discuss how business is cyclical and even when you have achieved success, you will still face challenges. There is no “easy” in business. [16:50] I share how success looks differently for each of us and how to keep the big picture in focus.
Mentioned in this episode:
🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer)
FOLLOW ALONG 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/55 | |||
| #54 | Revenue Generating Activities for Interior Designers | 20 Jul 2023 | 00:26:06 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint
Energy begets energy. Money is energy. If we know that energy begets energy, what happens in your business when you sit down and you spend the time to commit some energy towards revenue-generating activities and lead-generating activities? In today’s episode, we are talking about revenue-generating activities and what that means, how and when to do these activities, and how they keep your business thriving! This episode was inspired by a listener question that we received from Julia, “Hi Kate, I’ve followed your advice and started batching my days so that I have more focus and not drawn in 100 different directions at once. I’ve set aside Mondays as my Marketing & Money Mondays. The problem is, I don’t always know what to do with this dedicated time. Can you provide some specific examples of revenue-generating activities that I can be focusing on during this time? Thanks so much. I appreciate everything.”
Here’s a glance at the episode: [5:00] We dive into a list of revenue-generating activities and get started with following up with leads. [8:25] I share about putting together proposals and my methods for getting these done in time efficient manner. [10:10] Invoicing clients can occasionally drop by the wayside when you’re deep into projects and a one-off invoice or an invoice outside of the regular schedule pops up so keeping these front of mind is necessary. [11:30] I discuss how I make time to reach out and cultivate strategic partnerships on a regular basis. [14:40] I share how utilizing Facebook groups can help build your clientele and the right methods for trying to both share helpful information and build relationships while also promoting your services. [18:00] Sometimes the key is in the follow-up and continuing to follow up with past clients. I share how this has worked for my interior design business.
Mentioned in this episode:
🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer)
FOLLOW ALONG 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/54 | |||
| #53 | How to run your Interior Design Consultation like a pro | 13 Jul 2023 | 00:45:57 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint
Want to have better proposals? Start with delivering better consultations. Consultations are the first step in working with your client and the better experience they have, the more likely they will want to work with you
Here’s a glance at the episode:
[6:36} I discuss how to effectively set expectations for your clients from the beginning - even before the consultation begins.
[9:08] I share how I prepare for a consultation and what I typically do in terms of paperwork, research, and getting to know the potential client(s).
[15:26] I share with you some of the little nuances that I have picked up along the way that help you to make a great first impression.
[23:41] I go through how I get more information about the lifestyle of the client and what they are looking to feel in their home and how they entertain to get a full picture.
[27:15} I discuss how I treat the consults as a “mini-design” session to add value for my client where I share a few design solutions to allow them to see the possibilities, however big or small. I also use this time to explore the different surfaces and revisit the budget to present a solid proposal.
[38:30] I share how I wrap up the session and remind the client of their options moving forward.
Mentioned in this episode:
🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer)
FOLLOW ALONG 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/53
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| #52 | 5 things I'd do differently if I was starting from scratch | 06 Jul 2023 | 00:26:01 | |
Interior Designer's Business Blueprint
Today’s episode is all about looking back and sharing with you all the 5 things I would do differently if I was starting from scratch again. I reflected back on what I would tell a new interior designer getting started in the industry.
Here’s a glance at the episode: [5:25] I share how important it is to truly invest in your business early on. I share how I invest in my business regularly now and how I wish that I had started to do this earlier.
[8:30] Perfectionism is the antithesis of progress. I share how it affects me as well and how it an hold us back from just getting started in business so dive in!
[13:41] I share all about how to get comfortable with self-promotion even if it is inherently uncomfortable for you.
[16:00] I discuss how important it is to get clear on your goals and what success really looks like for you! Remember - it’s key to build the business you want that fits into your lifestyle.
[20:43] I share with you how to be more selective with the types of clients you take on and how to determine where to spend your energy.
Mentioned in this episode: 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer)
FOLLOW ALONG 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/52
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