I am blessed to be in the business I love best! I've often been asked what it takes to run a successful interior design business, so I'm thrilled to share my insights.
First and foremost, interior design is a service industry. You need a passion for serving others and doing it exceptionally well. At its core, this field is about solving problems creatively, so being a fantastic problem solver and thinking outside the box is essential. Most importantly, you must be a people person who loves meeting and interacting with new people.
Talent is crucial. For the fortunate few, design is intuitive, a gift. If you're just starting out, having a business degree can set you apart and prove incredibly handy.
Having a unique niche or a distinctive style that sets you apart is vital. In a world where many designs look the same, originality is refreshing!
Connections are key. Be outgoing, kind, and loyal to your industry friends and vendors. These relationships are invaluable when challenges arise. Learning to LISTEN is critical. One of your most important roles is to listen to your clients and exceed their expectations.
I'm known for delivering more than my clients expect. I am passionate, efficient, loyal, reliable, and almost always available. Trust is everything! Building these relationships is like a marriage; mutual respect is a must. If you don't click with a client during the interview, it's best not to take on the project. You need to be their advocate and therapist, which requires a lot of patience and a genuine liking for them.
Ultimately, it comes down to being good at what you do and loving every moment of it!