Are you worried about getting through those tough first two years of your interior design business? Most new businesses fail in this critical period, but yours doesn’t have to!
In this episode, I share practical strategies to help you become profitable more quickly. I walk you through actionable steps for building a strong network, creating an impressive portfolio even with no prior experience, creating service packages that attract first-time customers, and leveraging your connections to find your initial projects. I explain exactly how to make yourself visible in the market. Plus, I share my journey of gradually building my business while working full-time before transitioning to independence.
Profitability typically takes about two years, but with the right approach, patience, and consistent effort, you can overcome the challenges of your first two years and build a successful design career.
Whether you’re just starting or struggling to gain traction, this episode will help you build momentum. Also, join the waitlist for my upcoming Launch Your Business Bootcamp, where I’ll personally guide you through setting up your design business – your ticket to turning your creative dreams into a profitable reality.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode
- Get a step-by-step guide to generate your first clients with zero experience
- Gain the motivation and practical knowledge to overcome common startup challenges
- Evaluate your profitability and create a plan to potentially speed up the two-year timeline
Check out these episode highlights
01:36 Profitability as a New Interior Designer
- Rebecca’s path to becoming an interior designer during a recession
- Started with a business license while working full-time for an architect
- Built business slowly on weekends for two years before going independent
- Addresses unrealistic expectations about instant success with celebrity clients
04:04 Building Your Network
- Announce your career change/new business immediately: Tell everyone at family events, social gatherings, and other interactions
- Document potential clients: Record names and contact information of everyone who shows interest
- Offer incentives for referrals
- Leverage social media confidently
- Be confident and direct: Don’t be timid about self-promotion; approach it boldly
9:34 Creating a Portfolio Without Clients
- Use your own home as your first portfolio piece
- Invest in professional photography or learn to take quality photos yourself
- Stage and restyle corners of your home to create multiple portfolio pieces
- Include photos of yourself “in action” to personalize your brand
- Ask family and friends to let you redesign their spaces for free or for minimal fees
- Showcase work on social media platforms and LinkedIn
11:43 Business Development Strategies
1. Create entry-level packages:
- Offer color selection consultations
- Provide “designer for an hour” sessions
- Develop per-room packages
- Create specialty packages (e.g., nurseries)
- Design e-design options for remote clients
2. Generate leads:
- Create valuable PDF downloads as lead magnets
- Collaborate with local businesses (paint stores, tile shops)
- Partner with contractors for referrals
- Join the Chamber of Commerce or BNI (Business Network International)
- Attend networking events regularly
3. Establish expertise:
- Start a blog or newsletter
- Research topics and share your knowledge
- Demonstrate continuous learning
14:14 Financial Considerations
- Hire a bookkeeper first: Make this your first business investment to set up proper financial systems
- Expect limited profitability: Plan for approximately two years before achieving significant income
- Consider part-time work: Maintain another income source during the building phase
- Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge every paid client and milestone
14:56 The Launch Your Business Bootcamp
15:53 Mindset for Success
- Stay patient: Understand that growth takes time
- Remain consistent: Keep marketing and networking consistently
- Develop grit: Cultivate perseverance through challenging periods
- Ask for referrals directly: Don’t wait for them to happen organically
Next Steps
Grab your freebies:
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join the My Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Email me at [email protected] if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Links Mentioned
- Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spot
Sourcing for sheets and comforters? Check out Cozy Earth and use code DesignCurious for 40% off
Thanks for listening. I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week…