Interior designing is considered to be one of the thriving businesses these days. And in a sea full of experienced designers who came before you, you might find it hard to find your kinder tide initially.
Starting up an interior design business, like any other businesses, doesn’t have to be a nightmare though. While it is true that there is no shortcut to success, starting off lean and strong can sometimes do the trick. And if you have already decided on this new venture, then there is no point looking back.
Read on below to find out 5 tips you may consider in starting up your own interior design business.
1. Build a Slick Website
During your initial year, clients may already expect that you can’t show any portfolios yet. Hence a slick website can either make or break your debut.
Make sure that prospective clients can see a piece of you from the website. Make it a bit more personal because it relays a message across that you are an open book. Customers prefer those who are not picky about creating a rapport with them. It makes them feel more comfortable. But at the same time, make it professional as well to preserve the business side.
Now, just from building a website might already cost you a decent chunk of your capital. But don’t fuss about it, because it will definitely make a great start for you.
2. Reasonable Price or Go Pro-Bono
The best way to make a name in the industry is through the word of mouth.
Now, this might cost you a little more because you need to do a free service for at least 2 or 3 clients during your initial year at least. But still, take it as an opportunity to put your best foot forward and leave them nothing but a satisfied clientele. However, make sure that you still protect your business by being cautious of up to what extent you can do for the client.
You may even film the job you do, with the client’s approval of course, so you may add it to your portfolio in the future.
3. Show Amazing Photos of your Work
If you have done simple works before, may it be helping out a friend or one of the relatives, still grab the opportunity to boast about it? It might not be a lot, but the fact that you have something to show is a good start.
And then moving forward, ensure that you properly document each project you do and update your portfolio as you go. It is important to make sure the sample photos you bring in are shot professionally. Right angling and lighting are vital to have additional drama and effect.
4. Market Your Business on Social Media
Most, if not all, businesses nowadays use social media for marketing promotion. So, might as well take advantage of it.
It is free and very accessible to use too. And you can easily connect with several prospect clients just in one engagement post. Be visible as you can be from the online world. Create engaging posts and be responsive as much as you can. Make sure to be cautious of social media algorithm so you can stay on the newsfeed most of the time. You can reach people not just from your own country, but across the whole world too.
5. Grow Your Interior Design Business
You’ve got your website up and running, made presence through social media platforms and had some pro-Bono’s to start with as well. Now the key is maintaining the momentum.
Once you feel that the business had reached its stability, don’t be afraid to let it grow. Look around and think of other things which you can offer more to your clients. Be ready to accept change and adapt to what the current situation needs.
And if you ever feel like you need to learn more skills and techniques on how to be a better interior designer, then never limit yourself. You can enroll in an online interior design course if need be.
Final Thoughts
The good thing about starting up a business like interior designing is there’s no age limit to it. It all boils down to your passion as a designer. So don’t be afraid to take the risk and get out of your comfort zone. Or forever hold your horses.