Grow your network to grow your interior design company.
Networking is extremely important in many different industries and the interior design one is no exception.
Do you feel like networking is just a way to ‘have fun’, it’s a nice add-on but seriously you don’t have time for it? You might want to reconsider that thought…
Networking isn’t just about having drinks with business people after a long work-day. It can be much more valuable for you and your business when done right.
First, who is part of your network?
Your network is made of all the people you know and the people who know about your business. They are other professionals, people who are active in the industry, other interior designers, architects, suppliers, property developers, and so on.
Growing your network and nurturing it can be really helpful to make your business more successful.
Here is how to start.
1. Build meaningful relations
Don’t just go talk to someone because you think they might be valuable to you. Even if you think you are being subtle about it, chances are, you’re not. And they can feel it.
Don’t be too salesy or too pushy right away. Instead, show genuine interest in what they do.
Make sure to focus on creating meaningful relations. Even if you don’t see the ‘money value’ of the relationship right away. Building a trustworthy relationship takes time and effort. If you want to receive their support one day, you will want to give them your attention today.
2. Don’t see other people as your competition
You all have a unique take on interior design. Don’t fear the competition. Instead, embrace it. Engage with other interior designers. Congratulate them on their work. Share inspirational pieces from them on your social media. Ask their opinion and start a conversation.
Feel how amazing it is to be surrounded by other business owners supporting each other instead of taking down one another. Your clients will also be pleased to see this kind of practice. It shows you are confident enough in your work to support another collaborator and that you value someone else’s expertise.
3. Offer recommendations
Don’t be afraid to recommend a client that doesn’t fit your portfolio to another collaborator. It is going to be greatly appreciated and you are increasing your chances that they will do something similar for you too. It’s better to say no to a project that doesn’t fit your business model and to recommend it to someone else more adapted to the offer. This will show the customers you actually care about them and it will show the interior design that you respect their work.
4. Build a support system
Meeting people in your industry can feel very rewarding. They understand you. They are going through similar challenges and you can support each other. That is extremely valuable, especially if you are an entrepreneur who doesn’t get a lot of external support in your life. People you would once consider as your competitor might soon become a dear friend.
5. Welcome mentorship
If you are starting your business, meeting more experienced business owners can be very valuable. We tend to run away from people that are more qualified than us while we should welcome their feedback. If you are constantly inspired by a specific designer, if you’d like to know more about how they got into business, don’t be afraid to reach out to them. They will be pleased to see that their work has inspired others to do the same and might have insightful advice for you.
6. Join industry organizations
Find out local chapters or an online organization active in the interior design industry. This will keep you up to date with industry news, allow you to meet active people in the community and become one of them. Those relations can become very important. Don’t be afraid to share your opinions and expertise. This helps you build awareness and credibility in your industry. You will soon be seen as the expert of your niche and will start welcoming new referrals.
Are you looking forward to growing your network? Do you need more tips to position yourself in the industry? Click here to schedule a Complimentary Brand Consultation.