Business of Design ™ | Interior Designers, Decorators, Stagers, Stylists, Architects & Landscapers

In this episode, Advocate in Chief, Kimberley Seldon, shares the story of my personal burnout moment—right in the middle of what should have been a dream project. She opens up about the emotional toll of saying yes too often, working past capacity, and losing the spark that made her fall in love with design in the first place. You'll hear about her efforts to shift from hustle to sustainability and how that helped her reclaim her energy and restructure her business. In this episode we learn: - burnout doesn't always look like a breakdown—it can happen quietly, even in beautiful spaces. - sustainable change often starts with one small but bold decision. - defining your true capacity (and honoring it) is a business strategy, not a luxury. - raising your rates can reduce your workload and increase your revenue. - a signature process saves time, builds confidence, and elevates the client experience. - protecting your energy is not selfish—it's what allows your creativity and business to thrive. Learn more to transform your business, and your life, at https://businessofdesign.com

Let's talk about a topic that gives many designers the cold sweats—sales. Offering your services authentically is not pushy—it's service. It's not ick, it's sales. From handling rejection to reviving client pipelines and learning how to spot subtle buying signals, this conversation is packed with real strategies that feel good and get results. Whether your projects are booming or business feels a bit slow, it's time to reframe your mindset, reconnect with past clients, and approach sales with clarity and confidence. In this episode we learn: - Sales is not sleazy—it's service. You're not "convincing"; you're solving a problem your client already has. - Reframe rejection. A "no" is often just a "not yet." It's your job to follow up respectfully and leave the door open. - Understand your client's “convincer strategy.” People need to see or hear something multiple times before they say yes—so follow up strategically. - Spot buying signals. Comments, objections, or questions can all indicate interest. Learn to recognize and respond without fear. - Don't ignore past clients. It's easier to earn repeat business than find new clients—reach out with genuine value and suggestions. - Your network is gold. Happy clients will refer you—if you ask. Don't rob them of the joy of helping you. - Soft selling works. Ask permission to make suggestions and always offer a next step without pressure. - Watch your email tone. Reduce “I” statements and shift to client-focused language with questions that invite engagement. Learn more to transform your business at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Want to handle difficult clients and challenging situations with total authority? Well then, channel your inner 90's action star (think Steven Segal)! Using a simple and effective technique, you can diffuse any challenging situation and turn an uncomfortable exchange into an affirming and positive step forward in your relationship. The bonus: this technique works with friends and family too. In this episode we learn: - how to diffuse a bad situation that is escalating. - stress-reducing strategies that will keep you in top-shape for the challenging work you do. - why hiring a coaching and/or psychologist is a sign of strength. - 5 reasons you absolutely should charge more money. Get the systems you need to attract ideal clients at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

In today's episode, we're cutting through the fluff and getting real about profit, pricing, and what it actually takes to run a design business that pays you well and feels good to run. Interior designer Lindsay Kjellberg shares how she went from nonstop hustle and just $30K in profit on $800K in revenue… to working 30 hours a week, taking vacations, and pocketing $250K a year (without working harder!)  Spoiler: joining Business of Design® was a total game-changer. We're diving into the smart decisions she made—like charging for consultations, tracking all her time, and raising rates with confidence. If you're ready to work smarter, earn more, and finally feel in control of your business, you're going to love this one. In this episode we learn: - profit matters more than revenue - charging for consultations attracts serious clients and boosts conversions - billing for every minute of your time can double your income without raising rates - higher rates and smarter project selection create more freedom and less stress - mindset shifts—like valuing your time and ignoring outside opinions—fuel real growth Transform your business at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Business of Design® is in full money mode with the launch of a 6-week Financial Intensive, kicking off October 16th. In this episode, Cheryl Horne, Director of Operations, shares real-world strategies and practical advice to help you take immediate control of your business finances—no matter where you're starting from. Whether you're struggling to price confidently, unsure how to track profitability, or simply tired of feeling overwhelmed by the numbers, this episode offers tools you can implement today to move your business toward long-term success. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why understanding your numbers is the foundation of a thriving design business • Practical tips to build financial clarity and confidence • How setting time limits on tasks improves productivity and profitability • The power of tracking your billable hours—and regularly reviewing them • Why separating revenue streams boosts both insight and income • The key difference between salary and profit—and why it matters • How to create a system of regular financial check-ins that drive smart decisions

In this episode, Kimberley gets real about her money management journey—yes, even the messy parts—and shares how getting clear on your numbers can be a total game-changer. Will Leonard introduces Zena, a smart new pre-funded spending card that makes tracking expenses way less painful (and dare we say...kind of satisfying?). From expense categories to regular money check-ins, financial visibility isn't just about bookkeeping—it's a secret weapon for growth. If you've been avoiding your finances, this episode might just change your mind. In this episode we learn: - how centralizing your business purchases can tame the chaos and bring clarity - why a pre-funded spending card like Zena might just be your new favorite business tool - how organizing expenses by project can save you serious time (and sanity) on bookkeeping - the surprising way expense categories can actually boost your bottom line - how real-time tracking keeps your financial house in order—without the stress - a smarter, calmer way to prep for tax season (bye-bye, last-minute panic) Learn more to grow your business at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

As an interior design professional, you create beauty, function, and transformation for your clients—but are you building the same for yourself? In this episode we dig into the powerful connection between your sense of worth and your ability to build true wealth. If you've ever questioned what you should charge, struggled with confidence in business, or felt stuck on the income treadmill, this episode will shift your perspective—and help you design a business as intentional as your interiors. In this episode we learn: - why undercharging isn't just a pricing issue—it's a self-worth issue - how wealth isn't just about money, but about time, freedom, and choice - the hidden costs of burnout and overdelivering - practical ways to increase your profit margins without compromising your creativity - how to reframe your mindset around money, value, and success as a creative Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

A website, like any great interior design project, needs a solid strategy, a thoughtful process, and an eye for aesthetics. In this episode, website strategist Elle Kwan joins us to unpack the essentials of building a high-performing website for your interior design business. Elle shares smart strategies for creating content that resonates with your dream clients and satisfies Google's search engine algorithms. From clarifying your services to choosing the right website platform, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you attract, engage, and convert. You'll learn: - What a strong website strategy looks like - How to speak to both clients and Google robots - Why clear service definitions are key - Pros and cons of popular website platforms - Why starting small with a DIY site is okay - How to stay focused and trust yourself through the ups and downs of running a business Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Our brains are wired to filter out information that is unnecessary; that's why marketing fails so often. To get through the filter and get your client's attention, you'll have to do something radical—you'll have to get different. Author and entrepreneur advocate, Michael Michalowicz shares his solution to the highly ignorable marketing trap.    In this episode we learn: - organize clients by revenue spent and their crush factor (how much you love working with them) - find out where your ideal clients converge and market there - avoid being highly ignorable, approach clients in a way that gets their attention - perform your own R&D (rip off and duplicate) - be the true you; lean into it - be strategic about the mediums your market in (e.g., blog, tv, print ad, Facebook ad, etc.) - also, be strategic about the method (e.g., gift basket of cookies vs. gift basket of tequila) introduce keys (signifier that tells you if the marketing piece is working) Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Daniela Furtado is back and this time we put her on the spot by rapid firing the top marketing questions interior design professionals ask us at BOD™. As usual, she is full of insights and great suggestions. In this episode we learn: - what quantifies a good marketing return - how to build a referral strategy that works - how to manage a mix of offerings on your website - should your prices appear on your website - talk about money early and often Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

What are Business of Design® members thinking about these days? Since Director of Operations, Cheryl Horne, speaks to members on a daily basis, she's got answers. Cheryl and Kimberley dish about smart ways to increase current project sizes, how to determine how many jobs is the right number for you and why it's so important to ignore your inner worrier when it comes to billing clients. In this episode we learn: • key ways to determine which projects are most profitable • why it's beneficial to train new staff with BOD™ modules • three profit levers to pull when your business is in a famine era • what happens when a client wants to shop themselves • which course should you take first when you are a new employee

Slow season got you feeling... stuck? You're not alone. In this episode, our Advocate-in-Chief  shares 5 smart moves every interior designer can make when work slows down. From reconnecting with past clients to finally creating that operations manual, these are actionable, empowering steps to help you emerge from any lull stronger, sharper, and ready for whatever's next. Whether you're in a rut or just need a reset, this is the pep talk you didn't know you needed. In this episode we learn: - why former clients are your most valuable leads—and how to reconnect without being salesy - what goes into a killer operations manual and how it can change your business - systems you finally have time to implement that will pay off all year long - how to use slow seasons to sharpen your skills and expand your value - yes, it's ok to raise your rates even when business feels slow - how mindset shifts during slow periods can lead to powerful breakthroughs Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Do more of what you love and less of what you don't love. Sounds like a good plan, doesn't it? Of course it does. It's a simple concept that's sometimes challenging to implement says our guest expert, Brad Farris. In this episode we learn: • stay in your zone of genius by delegating what you aren't good at • the boss should have the fewest emails, not the most Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Who transitions from a cushy job in the corporate Craft Brew world into running an interior design studio? Our guest, Alexis Vitale. That's who. While the corporate world gave her structure, business knowledge, sales skills, and more, it took tremendous courage to make the switch. Find out what mattered most to this business owner during her transition. In this episode we learn: • taking a calculated risk is scary, but staying stuck in fear is worse • don't be ok, with just being ok—go for great • it's all about relationships—make frequent dates with new people and grow your network Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Let's be honest, some of the most powerful forces holding us back aren't external. Our negative self-talk contributes to lackluster results and keeps us stuck. The messages may sound harmless, even reasonable, overtime they will erode your self-confidence and hamper your success. Change the message, you change the momentum. In this episode we learn:  how negative self-talk quietly sabotages your business growth  the real cost of staying stuck in a negative mental loop  how to identify the limiting stories you keep telling yourself  what it takes to shift your mindset and reclaim momentum Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Is it possible to create a balanced sales model by mixing large, medium, and small projects for financial stability? Absolutely says our guest, Daniela Furtado. She is going to answer the question, Are Small Projects Worth It? In this episode we will explore how diversifying clients boosts cash flow, fosters relationships, and drives steady growth—without losing sight of the big vision.  In this episode we learn: - to create a revenue mix to ensure financial stability and reduce risks if a big clients drop off - establish a profitable base rate for smaller projects (e.g., consultations, design refreshes) to ensure they are worth your time and effort - never discount—just adjust the scope - use small projects for strategic growth - market your business for high-end projects by primarily showcasing large and medium projects online - instead of waiting months to land a big client, let small projects generate cash flow to sustain your marketing efforts, ensuring continuous outreach and visibility - nurture and upsell larger leads Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

We all want the healthiest client relationships possible, right? Well, it's an inside job. Sure, better systems to run your business and projects will significantly improve your client relationships. Absolutely. However, in addition we may also need to address what's going on between our ears! Long standing patterns of negative thought can morph into negative patterns of behavior, which keep us stuck.  In this episode we learn: - how the '10% right' principle can be used in conflict resolution - implement a 3:1 positive ratio in your thoughts and interactions with clients to improve the relationship and get your way more often - to consult your elder, wiser self when at an impasse or stuck on a decision - the transformative impact of celebrating small steps and victories Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Succession planning might feel like a far-off concept, but the truth is—it's never too early to start. In today's episode, we sit down with attorney Wendy Estela to tackle the big questions around IP and succession. Wendy believes that building a business that can eventually be sold doesn't just prepare you for the future—it makes your business stronger today. Tune in to learn: - What intellectual property really means for your business - How to recognize your worth as a designer and protect your value - Key succession planning options—and when to start If future-proofing your business is on your mind, this episode is for you. Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Ever feel like you're not being truly heard by your clients? You're not alone—communication can be tricky, especially when dealing with different personalities. In today's episode, we're talking D with Sierra Collins! A long-time BOD™ Partner, Sierra has worked with all our Boss Groups and countless members to master the art of effective communication. Kimberley first met Sierra years ago during her own DISC assessment, and the lessons still resonate today. Sierra breaks down how understanding DISC can transform your client interactions, including: - Why we're all a mix of DISC—and why that's a good thing - How to hire for a balanced mix of communication skills - Why having systems and solid contracts can give you the D courage you need Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Ever worried that you're charging too much? Of course you have. You're an interior design professional! But no more says Kristen Apicerno. Kristen, a Kimberley Seldon disciple, initially struggled with charging appropriate fees for her services. She felt that charging a project management fee was "double dipping" and peers and other professionals agreed. This erroneous attitude severely limited her earning potential, that is, until she joined BOD™. Once she implemented the systems, she realized she was undercharging and tackling the most challenging parts of the project for free.  Hear her story of meteoric success.  In this episode we learn: - always take the approach that designer and client are equals, and emphasize that with language - during every step, tell clients what's going to happen before it happens - ask purposeful open-ended questions and let the client do most of the talking - use post-project opportunities to gain repeats and referrals Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

We're going to talk to about the things you need to do today, if you want to sell your design firm successfully. Today's guest, Brad Farris, is going to share with us the key factors that impact your sale, how to get yourself out of the service delivery, the role growth plans in your future sale, and so much more. It's time to start thinking about your succession plan. In this episode we learn: • if you are essential to running the business, you can't sell it • build a team, then go on vacation…it's practice • long-term contracts or clients that come back to you repeatedly are more valuable • build your business in a niche that's not "one-and-done" projects • building relationships with likely buyers before they need your services • if you are planning to sell your business, learn the math of how businesses are valued • your most likely buyer is a competitor or someone who sells a different service to the same buyer Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Are you tired of pouring energy into content creation, only to be ignored by social media algorithms? YES. Does it feel like solely relying on social media to market your business might be a mistake? YES. Then consider a low-social strategy that captures the attention of your ideal clients.  In this episode we learn: - why website conversion matters to business and how to improve it - ways to bring more visitors to your website - how to turn your portfolio into a powerful lead magnet - 4 templated emails to generate leads Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Building strong connections opens up new opportunities and drives business growth. The Interior Design Community embodies this idea. Today's guest, Laurie Laizure shares her experience in supporting the interior design field by connecting designers and nurturing those relationships. In this episode we learn: - focus on video marketing, targeted toward your ideal client - reconsider self-naming your business, as it might impede a future sale - there are enough clients in the 1% for every designer to have 7 jobs annually - use your platform to address potential clients' concerns upfront Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

When was the last time you took a risk? In this episode, we'll hear how one designer did just that when she took on a large project just outside her comfort zone. Then, we'll hear from her PR firm who'll share how they leveraged the new project to gain recognition for their clients. In this episode we learn: - leverage your expertise to bring fresh insight to new project types - embrace market changes rapidly - outsource anything that's not in your zone of expertise - plan for lighting early Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

What if life-work balance isn't a tightrope, but rather it's a scenic drive in your dream car? Systems are the road maps that keep you on course. Delegation is your pit crew making sure the wheels stay on. Slowing down is how you take it all in and enjoy your own success. When you implement smart systems you'll learn that success is not about perfection—it's about enjoying the journey. In this episode we learn: - map your success route with systems - create a weekly schedule that prioritizes essential tasks for work and life - delegate to your team by allowing them to follow your systems - block time on your calendar for non-negotiables like family, rest, and self-care - complete a task audit monthly and look for ways to eliminate busy work or outdated habits that don't align with your current priorities. - regularly review your systems and goals Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

My magic is helping design leaders transform their teams and businesses by embracing an 'improv mindset.' I'm passionate about showing how practices of adaptability, bold humility, and "Yes, and..." can unlock possibility and creative partnership in every team. Through my Connective Influence Model, I share skills like creating "brave spaces" and "listening to learn", as a way to build trust, spark cohesion, and create thriving, people-first cultures. In this episode we learn: - the power of holding brave space to create psychological safety - how to foster curiosity by listening to learn - self-awareness allows you to be in the moment and present - the power of bold humility - why it's a good idea to know and challenge your patterns - how to use ‘yes, and…' to build on others' ideas instead of dismissing them Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

We all understand the value of tracking overall profitability, but sophisticated business owners will also want to track profitability by project. Why? Individual projects may vary greatly when it comes to the amount of revenue and profit they generate. Understanding project profitability allows you to focus marketing efforts and tweak offerings to increase overall financial health. In this episode we learn: - tracking project profitability allows you to be smarter in terms of marketing - analyze which types of projects bring you the greatest profit margin - don't be afraid of your P&L - hire a bookkeeper who will differentiate by project - even when you hire an accounting team, you'll need to stay involved Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Join today. https://businessofdesign.com/membership  

Key to success for many interior design professionals is hiring someone who excels in areas where they struggle. Amanda Giles shares her experience of hiring a Director of Operations after many unsuccessful attempts to hire an administrator. This detail oriented, office over-seer can significantly improve the quality of work and overall efficiency and allow you to do more work and better work. What's not to love? In this episode we learn: - be honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses; nobody is good or bad at everything - structure your business by radically simplifying for your skills or hiring those with complementary strengths - work on understanding all the parts of the business, but empower and trust your team to take authority in their area - teach clients and vendors to trust your team, and back them up 100%

You're not imagining it. Interior design is a complex, complicated, and challenging career choice. That's ok, you're not afraid of hard work, but despite your best efforts, you're nowhere near where you thought you'd be by now. Some of you graduated from design school and even with the best education available, you were not taught the fundamentals of running a successful interior design firm. Others have worked for years, even decades and still don't have the essential systems, procedures, protocols, and strategies required to run a successful business. Until now, that is. In this episode, you will learn: - enjoy all the perks of business ownership, including profitability - satisfy all your clients and generate repeat and referral business - attract ideal clients with juicy projects grow staggering profits that lead to independent wealth - implement policies and procedures that guarantee you get paid - create a standardized contract that works for every project - hire the right people and learn to delegate effectively - confidently manage clients, trades and a team - finally become the expert you were meant to be Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Join today. https://businessofdesign.com/membership

After a decade of designing private jet interiors, designer Lisa Morton had an ugly meltdown. Her health and well-being were hanging on by a thread. She discovered a holistic approach to design and began her studies into Feng Shui. Now a master teacher, she believes this is an excellent area of study for design professionals to consider, as younger generations are becoming increasingly concerned with the aspects of wellness. In this episode we learn: -being intentional with selections for your clients means less "fast furniture" and more pieces of value and worth - the front door is key to a home's energy, so light the entrance well, add comforting elements such as a carpet, and include live greens - the water element improves fluidity so bring it into workspaces by introducing blues or blacks, wavy patterns, water features or water images - add earth elements like brick, stone or clay to ground spaces for clients (or designers) who are stressed out such as brick, stone, or clay - warm up winter with fire elements such as animal prints, triangular shapes and pops of red or fuchsia Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Join today. https://businessofdesign.com/membership

How do you know when the s%*&'s about to hit the fan? Are there warning signs, and if so, what are they? Kimberley shares her recent experience of being evacuated in the LA fires and relates it to preparedness when it comes to knowing your business is in trouble. In this episode we learn: - by the time your business is in trouble, the chances are you missed multiple warning signs - your P&L can act as an early warning protection system - analyzing incoming inquiries is your number one assessment tool - before it gets dire, get busy with client retention, client growth and client sourcing

In this candid conversation between two long time Business of Design® Members, Dane Austen interviews Kristen Apercerno on all topics from the importance of finding a mentor to developing your processes, and committing to regular marketing to collaboration over competition. Dane and Kristen share how they navigate business challenges and the lessons they've learned on the job. In this episode we learn: - find and learn from experienced professions who can guide you - develop a successful design process to streamline and elevate your work - commit to scheduling time for marketing and finances - set clear expectations in your contract - identify and leverage your superpowers - embrace practicality in your space, don't stress over imperfections - put yourself out there Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Join today. https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Maybe it's time to make your approach to marketing stand out. How can we do that? Well, first of all, says our guest Heather Peterson, have fun. A playful and novel approach will get your client's attention. Just make sure you know exactly which type of client you'd like to work with first. In this episode we learn: - speak to few, not many - be specific about the work you showcase and speak directly to the exact type of client you want - stay top of mind by frequent connection points - a book is a great opportunity to share recent work with past clients - sow seeds, rather than opting for a single blanket mailing - package any gifts thoughtfully, so they'll stand out - make it easy for the client to say yes to your offer by supplying them with things they can easily share Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Join today. https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Just because you've been doing it that way for years doesn't make it the best way. Don't surrender to so-so, when amazing is just around the corner. In this episode we learn: - top assumptions that need replacing - when it's time to abandon a method of working - why new systems can fast track you to new success Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Kimberley contemplates a tattoo for the new year, while sharing wisdom from the season's best podcasts.  In this episode we learn: 1. systems don't complicate your life, they remove friction 2. no is a complete sentence 3. let me look into that 4. design with intention, not just for attention 5. is this an insurmountable problem 6. when you are speaking to everyone, you are speaking to no one 7. the client's wish list never aligns with the client's budget 8. beware of toxic positivity 9. never be more concerned about your client's money than you are about your own 10. feel awkward for 15 seconds, and see what the client says Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/membership

At High Point Market, in partnership with Daniel House Club and Sunpan, Kimberley talks to designers about growing your relationship and profitability with key vendors. They are an extension of your brand. In this episode we learn: - Work less, by relying on the expertise of key vendors. - Grow profitability by working in harmony with vendors. Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/membership

At High Point Market, in partnership with Daniel House Club and Four Hands, Kimberley talks to designers about why you should ignore the client's budget, and specify better products. In this episode we learn: - Build your brand and wow your clients. - Propose the best option, not the least expensive one. - Go beyond the brief. Sometimes clients don't know what they need.

A thoughtfully designed home can not only improve aesthetics, but it can actually facilitate a more peaceful and healing environment. Designer Sara Robinson learned this lesson in a dramatic way, after receiving her own breast cancer diagnosis. If everyone functions better when design is improved, the challenge for interior design professionals is to create the right balance regardless of style or aesthetic. In this episode we learn: -how to apply Motion + Emotion = Experience, a theory that blends a patient's need to feel trust and calm with the staff's need for things to move smoothly - when balance is right, we are in a better state of mind to heal - applying lean principles of studying a process, finding what is wasteful and eliminating the waste to make things much more efficient - how design supports efficiency and the human experience - reframing approaches to mundane spaces - post-occupancy evaluation and utilizing feedback to inform your next design Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/membership/

Let's talk strategy. Today's guest, Casey Chastain, helps design and architecture firms align marketing and business development with their core business objectives. By identifying growth opportunities, streamlining bid processes, and ensuring all teams are connected to the firm's overall strategy, design firms can unlock untapped growth potential. In this episode we learn: - lowering your price does not necessarily lead to more clients - clients will hire you when they see value - develop a clear value proposition for marketing and business development - make sure new ideas align with overall business goals - implement reporting tools that show how marketing and business development efforts contribute to revenue - communicate goals with your team Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Sure, as interior design professionals we make homes look beautiful. However, to be truly successful and create clients for life, we have to dig deeper. Interior designer Kate Marker says she likes to tap into the feeling or mood her clients are hoping to live with, in order to satisfy their deepest needs. She does that by asking strategic questions and actively listening, so she can build meaningful relationships that last and last. In this episode we learn: - it takes time to know your clients and then tailor your designs to reflect their unique personalities - keeping the lines of communication open is critical, so build in regular updates and check-ins - listen actively to your clients' concerns and desires and let them know you hear them - foster collaboration but don't be afraid to be the expert and make strong recommendations - we build trust through transparency Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Art provides a home with soul, infusing it with the client's personality. Yet too many design professionals don't make art selections on behalf of their clients. It's not nearly as complicated to choose art as you might think. In this episode, we'll talk about ways to bring more artwork into the lives of your clients. In this episode we learn: - art can be a piece you inherited, a painting you found at an antique store, a fun pottery collection, a textile from a trip (that could be a quilt, tapestry, or rug), kids' art, etc. - galleries can be intimidating, but flea markets, vintage shops, art fairs, and online art - resources can have amazing, meaningful pieces - to create a color palette for a home, start with the art - don't worry about “matching” the artwork, opt for finding pieces that set the right mood Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Can becoming a regular TV contributor on local networks impact your business? Absolutely, says interior design professional Hellen Austen. Here's what you need to know to get yourself on TV and create a lasting impression that translates into clients. In this episode we learn: - get on a local show - you might have to pay for the opportunity - when on air, speak directly to your ideal client - being on tv isn't glamorous but it does increase your name recognition - don't be afraid to cold call the networks Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Join Kimberley and Team BOD™ at High Point Market for a rehearsal of 20/20 Vision, Be the Expert. Yes, you can run a wildly successful and profitable business. It's easier today than it's ever been. In this episode, you'll get a sneak peek at the 20 systems Kimberley shared to celebrate 20 years of Business of Design®. You'll learn what it takes to be the expert and how that benefits your clients. You'll hear systems and strategies to implement, and the motivation required to boost yourself to the next level. If you weren't able to join us live at High Point Market, here is your chance to be part of the celebration.

If you could wave a magic wand and go back in time, who would you add to your team first? A bookkeeper, like our guests today? A sales agent, like Kimberley? An assistant? An office manager? The choices are vast. Here's what to think about as you build your team. In this episode we learn: - know the strengths and weaknesses of your employees and then build around their style of working - assume the best of your employee, but look for opportunities to verify results - create boundaries and expectations that are clearly defined - allow failure to be part of your cost of doing business Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Not all contracts are created equal. An hourly fee contract has distinct advantages but so does a flat fee contract. Then there's the hybrid contract. Which one is right for you? To be honest, it doesn't matter which you use. All work effectively, provided you know how to calculate required funds, how to ask for the required funds and how to maintain control of the funds. In this episode we learn: - BOD™ finally has an ebook and an audio book - which contract is right for you—hourly, flat, hybrid - learn how to ask for the money you need - learn how to calculate up-front fees Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Do you have an appointment engine? Yup, says our guest, Nikki Nash, you have one. The real question is, are you using it and is it tuned up? There are three categories where you can focus your attention and achieve big results.  In this episode we learn: - you must go where your ideal prospect is (a place you can show up confidently) - capture their attention and spark a conversation with a clear, consistent offer - communicate your offer clearly - get the client's contact information and schedule a first date - after the first date goes well, metaphorically go on the next until they have everything needed to make a decision - propose to the clients and take your relationship to the next level Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Do you have an appointment engine? Yup, says our guest, Nikki Nash, you have one. The real question is, are you using it and is it tuned up? There are three categories where you can focus your attention and achieve big results. In this episode we learn: - you must go where your ideal prospect is (a place you can show up confidently) - capture their attention and spark a conversation with a clear, consistent offer - communicate your offer clearly - get the client's contact information and schedule a first date - after the first date goes well, metaphorically go on the next until they have everything needed to make a decision - propose to the clients and take your relationship to the next level Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

The primary challenge keeping so many women in entrepreneurial poverty is a lack of consistent income. Interestingly, that's a relatively easy fix, particularly for Business of Design® members. More challenging is the task of protecting your resources of time and energy. Yes, it's possible to build a sustainable business that prioritizes health, wealth, and relationships. In this episode we learn: - define business growth goals that aim to eliminate time and energy constraints - pay yourself while you are growing - establish a support system of therapists, coaches, business BFFs, and mastermind groups Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

The wait is over! BOD™ Run Your Business has arrived. In this episode, Advocate-in-Chief Kimberley Seldon shares her journey over the past two years, offering key insights into crafting the ultimate playbook for running a successful business. In this episode we learn: - what's inside Kimberley's latest book and how it applies to your business - everything starts with your money mindset and limiting beliefs - expertise comes through systems - hourly fees vs. flat fees, which should you use - how to embrace a standardized contract Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Yes, you can handle the important task of procurement and in doing so provide a better service to clients and be wildly more profitable. By relying on known partners, you can ease into this task and reap the many benefits. In this episode we learn: - don't try to do everything all on your own, lean on your partners - find partners who lead with exceptional service over exceptional price - ask what's possible and try new things - focus most of your energy into your superpower and create a plan to manage the onslaught of new ideas that come your way - don't forget the value of in person experiences and relationships Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Before you commit to making the trip to High Point Market, let's talk about how that investment will pay off in the future. In this episode, High Point Market Authority CEO, Tammy Covington Nagem talks about the 3-legged stool of ROI—products, education, and networking. In this episode we learn: - let the High Point Market travel concierge help you to secure your trip details and answer your burning questions - visit the High Point Market exhibitor profile pages for contact info and other details to book showroom appointments - visit the High Point Market events page to select educational and social events you don't want to miss - download the High Point Market MyMarket app to map out your daily plan for showroom visits and events - plan your first day, Oct. 26, around BOD™ events