This Is The Perfect Time to Renovate Your Interior Design Business
The BEST Residential Interior Design Podcasts - Episode 248
As luxury service providers, residential interior designers are seeing the end result of today’s economic concern/fear/panic/dread being reflected in our businesses. Whether it’s higher interest rates or fear of a recession, homeowners are pulling back on home renovations.
Sure, ultra-rich clients - Sylvester Stallone - are renovating their mansions with their ultra-rich designers - Martyn Bullard - but for the rest of us - Robb & Company…something hinky is going on.
Which makes this the perfect time to take a good hard look at our businesses and look for ways to level up what we’re offering to our clients AND make our businesses more resilient & profitable.
Fortunately for us all, we’ve got TWELVE high-quality interior design business podcasts episodes today from hosts Terri Taylor, Karyn McRae and Helen Lynch, Kate Greunke, Darla Powell, LuAnn Nigara, Nikki Rausch, Melissa Galt, Rick Campos, Laura Thornton, Dennis Scully, Michelle Lynne and Rebecca Ward.
Today’s podcast guests include Abigail Wideman, Whitney Schanie, Heather Vercellino, Elizabeth “Ellie” Lord-Levitt and David Netto.
If you’re looking to make your interior design business even better than it is today, I guarantee that you will
Interior Design Business - Terri Taylor - Losing Control - 27 min
Two Gins In : A Designer's Perspective - Karyn McRae and Helen Lynch - The Power of Collaboration - 24 min
The Kate Show - Kate Greunke - How to Create a Multi-Six Figure Window Treatment Business as Your Second Career - 39 min
Designed by Wingnut Social - Darla Powell - Mini News : How Buying Fake Followers Damages Your Instagram Account - 7 min
Window Treatments for Profit - LuAnn Nigara - What Would Lu Do?: Create a Trade Partner Kit to Build Relationships With Interior Designers - 25 min
Sales Maven - Nikki Rausch - How To Put People At Ease Quickly: Mastering Excellence - 34 min
The Affluent Creative - Melissa Galt - Who Your Brand Needs To Be For Affluent Clients, Part 1 - 39 min
Design Biz Survival Guide - Rick Campos - Heather Vercellino: Going ALL IN on the Business of Design - 47 min
The Business of Beautiful Spaces - Laura Thornton - Let's Talk About Getting Comfortable with Construction Knowledge in your Design Business - 42 min
Business of Home Podcast - Dennis Scully - Decorating may be dying, but David Netto is thriving - 1 hr, 10 min
Designed for the Creative Mind - Michelle Lynne - The Importance Of Client Education - 33 min
Design Curious - Rebecca Ward - Want to Create Mindful Spaces? Learn First the Psychology of Design & Environmental Psychology - 18 min
Interior Design Business - Terri Taylor - Losing Control - 27 min
In this episode, host Terri Taylor talks about interior designers losing control of their jobs to their clients AND what you can do to ensure this never, ever, ever happens to you.
Topics covered in this episode include:
Why you need to communicate your process with your clients
The hallmark of a successful designer
How to avoid losing control of a design job
Two Gins In : A Designer's Perspective - Karyn McRae and Helen Lynch - The Power of Collaboration - 24 min
In this episode, hosts Helen and Karen dive into the dynamic world of interior design and construction, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among various professionals in the industry. They discuss how teamwork between architects, contractors, interior and building designers, and clients can transform a vision into a stunning reality.
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Key Points Discussed:
The Necessity of Collaboration: Collaboration is not just a choice but a necessity in interior design and construction. It involves architects, contractors, designers, and clients working together to achieve a cohesive and effective design.
Comprehensive Expertise: Each professional brings their unique expertise to the table. The episode highlights how this diversity in skills and perspectives contributes to more innovative and functional design solutions.
The Role of the Client: The significance of the client's involvement in the design process is emphasized. Their input and preferences are crucial in shaping the project.
Problem Solving: Collaboration is key in resolving challenges that arise during a project. Through joint effort, unforeseen issues can be addressed more efficiently and creatively.
Enhanced Creativity: Multiple perspectives in a collaborative environment lead to more innovative and effective design solutions.
Attention to Detail: Effective collaboration ensures that every detail, from the overall structure to the smallest finishing touches, is considered and executed well.
Relationships Matter: The importance of a good relationship between the client and the design team is discussed, highlighting how personality and communication styles can impact the success of a project.
Open Communication: Continuous and clear communication among all parties involved is essential for a successful collaborative effort.
The Kate Show - Kate Greunke - How to Create a Multi-Six Figure Window Treatment Business as Your Second Career - 39 min
Ever thought about expanding what you do as an interior design? Today’s episode is made just for you.
Designed by Wingnut Social - Darla Powell - Mini News : How Buying Fake Followers Damages Your Instagram Account - 7 min
Have you ever bought fake followers to make your interior design Instagram look more legit? Are you considering buying fake followers?
In today’s episode, Wingnut Social’s Assistant Director, Abigail Wideman, and Social Media Manager, Whitney Schanie, are here to shed some light on the consequences of buying followers.
Window Treatments for Profit - LuAnn Nigara - What Would Lu Do?: Create a Trade Partner Kit to Build Relationships With Interior Designers - 25 min
In today’s episode, host LuAnn Nigara is diving into how window treatment pros can initiate industry partnerships with interior designers through an industry partner kit. Much like a media kit, this is a great way to present your brand so that you can capture the attention of your ideal partners and elevate your client experience. We’re walking through what to include, how to deliver, and of course, why it’s important to be ready with systems and processes in place when the phone starts ringing
This exact same strategy can & should be used by interior designers to initiate & sustain relationships with trades, contractors, suppliers, builders, real estate agents and, of course, window treatment companies. Like it does with kids, it takes a village to build an awesome interior design business.
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Pick It Apart
[00:37] LuAnn reviews the strategies she has discussed before about building relationships with interior designers.
[06:15] LuAnn explains how introducing yourself to a designer with a trade partner kit can help you stand out in the industry.
[08:29] LuAnn walks through how to include a short case study with some of the photos in your portfolio.
[15:33] LuAnn discusses the different ways you can deliver the kit, both in print and digitally.
[20:12] LuAnn talks about LuAnn University and how the courses can help you take action and move the needle in your business.
LuAnn Nigara's Ah-Ha Moments
“When you build these relationships, they automatically fill your pipeline with new clients.” - LuAnn Nigara
“People buy you first and your resume second.” - LuAnn Nigara quoting Rachael Johanson
“We have to know where we want to go so that we can plan the route of accordingly. So, if your goal is to work with more interior designers next year, then creating a trade partner kit is probably a good idea.” - LuAnn Nigara
Sales Maven - Nikki Rausch - How To Put People At Ease Quickly: Mastering Excellence - 34 min
Connections are what help your business thrive. If you want to make the most of your connections, it’s best to show up in service to those you plan on connecting with. How can you build relationships and develop rapport to put people at ease?
Our very own Sales Maven, Nikki Rausch, is here to offer tips, techniques, and strategies to master your sales conversations.
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Discover methods to place yourself in the position to thrive in business and produce true value for your audience. Today, learn how to put people at ease quickly in this Mastering Excellence Series conversation on this episode of the Sales Maven Show.
Janice Porter is a relationship marketing specialist, host of the Relationships Rule Podcast, and LinkedIn trainer. She has an innate curiosity, which she has leveraged into building business relationships and teaches others how to do the same. Her passion is working with people who want to build their businesses through relationship marketing and networking – and she does that using online and offline strategies.
In today’s episode, Nikki and Janice talk about how to put people at ease quickly. Janice understands the building blocks for friendly, effective, and mutual business connections. Listen as Nikki and Janice talk about proactive relationship building that puts people at ease quickly.
Nikki invites you to join the Sales Maven Society, don't miss this opportunity for you and Nikki to work together. Bring your questions, concerns, sales challenges, and she provides answers and guidance to boost your confidence. Join the Sales Maven Society here, click add to cart, and then checkout and use coupon code: 47trial to get your first month for $47.00!
In This Episode:
[00:27] - Welcome, and thank you for listening!
[02:03] - Janice Porter knows how to skillfully place people at ease.
[04:31] - Be focused on the person you’re with in each moment
[05:52]- How are you starting the conversation?
[07:51] - Janice talks about getting a feel for what is valuable to who she’s connecting with.
[0944] - When exactly does Janice start building rapport?
[12:19] - Do you know how your connections prefer to be contacted? PART 1
[14:46] - Do you know how your connections prefer to be contacted? PART 2
[17:18] - Put people at ease right away.
[19:12] - Janice talks about putting yourself out there in a way that fits you.
[21:52] - “You have to trust your gut.” PART 1
[23:56] - “You have to trust your gut.” PART 2
[25:55] - Janice enjoys game shows.
[28:11] - What is Janice up to lately?
[30:08] - Thank you for listening. Nikki is so grateful you are here!
The Affluent Creative - Melissa Galt - Who Your Brand Needs To Be For Affluent Clients, Part 1 - 39 min
In today’s episode, host Melissa Galt dives deep into how your personal brand - how you look, sound, present, etc impacts your success with your ideal clients. If your business is struggling to land those ideal clients, you may want to dive deeper into this podcast episode.
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Ever wondered how your fashion choices could determine your success? Today, we’re exploring the power of aligning values with your ideal clients rather than hard-selling and how your style choices – from your wardrobe to your eyewear – can impact your brand's image. We’re looking at the undeniable allure of fascination–which is why making an outrageous eyewear statement, for example, could actually be a game-changer for your business, taking cues from icons like Elton John and Iris Apfel.
Who knew that your choice of car, jewelry, and even technology could narrate your brand's story? Whether it be your snazzy watch, architectural jewelry, or the sleek car you drive, these factors all contribute to your brand's narrative. Learn how to harness these elements and reflect your brand's ethos powerfully. Drawing inspiration from the successful designer Peter Marino, we’ll learn how to think, dress, and act out of the box. We'll also delve into the often overlooked aspects of our lives – our phone cases, ringtones, and screensavers – and how they silently communicate our brand to the world.
It's not just about what you wear; it's about crafting a brand wardrobe that speaks volumes. Tune in as I share my journey of breaking away from a signature look to create a new wardrobe that better aligns with my brand identity. We’ll take a closer look at the concept of a 'brand wardrobe' and understand how a support network plays a pivotal role in building your business. Wrapping up, we'll explore the benefits of subscribing and sharing the podcast and how you can interact with me directly. Let's take this captivating journey together and step closer to becoming an affluent creative!
In this episode, you will hear:
The importance of creating a remarkable and recognizable brand image through fashion and personal style
The impact that personal choices like eyewear, jewelry, cars, and technology can have on your brand image
Tips on crafting a 'brand wardrobe' that aligns with your brand identity
How to use tech and business cards to effectively represent your brand
Design Biz Survival Guide - Rick Campos - Heather Vercellino: Going ALL IN on the Business of Design - 47 min
In today’s episode, host Rick Campos welcomes Heather Vercellino, owner and principal designer of Verce Design based in Troy, Michigan. Rhey discuss Heather’s “all-in” approach to overcoming obstacles and pursuing her passion. As a mom of three, Heather understands the need for boundaries and shares how she has developed a business model that allows her to be her best self for her clients and her family. Heather also shares her perspective on business coaching and the positive impact it had on her self-confidence and the growth of her design business.
From investing in coaching to building supportive communities, Heather believes in the power of collective growth. She shares her secret sauce for surviving in the design industry – finding inspiration in interior design, nurturing personal relationships, and forming strong friendships within the industry. She also sheds light on her experience with IDS, a platform that offers education and a welcoming community.
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Show Highlights:
Heather’s journey of overcoming imposter syndrome and creating a successful business.
The importance of resilience, passion, and a supportive network in navigating the design industry.
Practical advice for designers, including transforming a showroom into a marketing tool and balancing work and personal life.
The benefits of having a business located in the Michigan Design Center and creating a sense of community amongst designers.
The value of sharing knowledge in the design industry and investing in coaching for business growth.
The power of collective growth, nurturing personal relationships, and finding inspiration in interior design for industry survival.
Heather's experience with the Interior Design Society (IDS) and the educational and community benefits it offers.
The Business of Beautiful Spaces - Laura Thornton - Let's Talk About Getting Comfortable with Construction Knowledge in your Design Business - 42 min
In today’s episode, host Laura Thornton chats with Elizabeth “Ellie” Lord-Levitt. Ellie has 19 years of experience in residential design and remodeling, and her education in construction, she designs spaces that are not only functional and aesthetically beautiful, but also advises on maximizing the value of a client’s property by advising on construction costs and value engineering alternatives.
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In addition to working with clients, Elizabeth was hired as an Adjunct Instructor for the Heritage School of Interior Design to teach construction management to aspiring designers. She saw a need in the interior design industry for designers to be more educated in the construction side of design, and built a six week curriculum specifically for the design community. Elizabeth also holds a Colorado Brokers License, in order to assist clients and developers through a real estate transaction pre or post design.
Business of Home Podcast - Dennis Scully - Decorating may be dying, but David Netto is thriving - 1 hr, 10 min
The last time interior designer David Netto was on the Business of Home Podcast, he spoke about the changing state of design media, and the importance of books. Now he’s got a book of his own to discuss, a monograph covering twenty projects from the full scope of a celebrated career.
On this episode of the show, he chats with host Dennis Scully about why it’s better to have no projects at all than too many, ignoring the beige-ification of the contemporary aesthetic, and why the young designers at his firm give him hope for the future.
Designed for the Creative Mind - Michelle Lynne - The Importance Of Client Education - 33 min
In this episode, host Michelle Lynne dives into the heart of client education, specifically in the context of project financials and client sourcing. We've all seen those design forums filled with pricing struggles and client shopping stories. Today, let's break down the myth and find a solution.
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The truth of the matter is—clients aren't jerks; they're often just uninformed. Time to shift your perspective from frustration to education. Once you learn how to weave client education into your conversations and even into your contracts, you will find that your clients will respect how you run your business and will be less likely to “shop you” or ask for discounts.
Educate your clients on the behind-the-scenes work. There is so much more that goes into designing a room than they know, they don’t understand what it takes to pull a design together but you do, it’s your job to communicate that and the value that you bring.
You're not just creating spaces; you're crafting experiences, you are turning houses into homes. You have to believe in the value that you bring to the project beyond a dollar per hour. Your skills and creativity are unparalleled – don't undersell them.
Take a moment after this episode and list out the intricate steps involved in designing a single room. Recognize the value in your process—it's a journey, not just a result. Remember, you're not just designing spaces; you're curating an environment. Embrace the process, communicate your value, and watch how smooth your client experience will be. .
Design Curious - Rebecca Ward - Want to Create Mindful Spaces? Learn First the Psychology of Design & Environmental Psychology - 18 min
In today's episode, host Rebecca Ward talks about the psychology of design and environmental psychology, and its profound impact on interior design. As Rebecca unravels Maslow's hierarchy of needs, she explores how shelter is a fundamental need that transcends into homes that foster safety, love, self-esteem, and self-actualization.
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This episode doesn't just uncover the challenges; it serves as a guide, offering resources, including TED talks and a recommended textbook, to aid in understanding the psychology of design and environmental psychology.
Whether you are a seasoned designer or just starting in the creative field, awareness of the psychology of the environment is crucial to creating mindful spaces for your clients.
Don't forget to check out the show notes for valuable resources and together let's start transforming spaces with purpose, beauty, and inspiration!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
Gain valuable insights into how the spaces you create impact you and your client's mental health, productivity, and overall well-being
Learn practical solutions and resources for navigating the complex intersection of design and psychology
Be empowered to create purposeful, inspiring spaces that support your client's mental health and well-being
