Being an interior designer is a great way to make a living, but it can be a competitive and challenging field to break into. Sometimes you may feel like you can’t make a name for yourself, and how do you stand out amongst the crowd? The answer is to focus on building your reputation.
As an interior designer, your reputation is everything. A strong reputation will open doors and help you build a successful career. A weak reputation will make finding work difficult and limit your opportunities. So, how do you build a strong reputation? Read on to find out.
Start with a strong portfolio
Your portfolio is a visual representation of your work and should be of the highest quality. Make sure only to include your best work and to update it regularly. Potential clients will often ask to see your portfolio before hiring you, so ensure it is always available and easy to access.
In addition to a strong portfolio, you also need positive client testimonials. When you finish a project, ask your client if they would be willing to write a short testimonial about their experience working with you. If they say no, don’t take it personally—move on and focus on getting testimonials from future clients. Include these testimonials on your website and in your portfolio so that potential clients can read them before they decide to hire you.
Work with a PR Agency
The next thing you should do to build your reputation is to hire a PR agency. A reputable PR agency will help you get your name out there and ensure you’re featured in the right publications. They can also help you connect with the right people, so you can get your work in front of the right audience. In addition, a PR agency can assist you with planning and executing events so that you can showcase your work to potential clients.
Get accredited by the NCIDQ
Becoming accredited by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) can also be a valuable credential. The NCIDQ is the leading organization in the field, setting standards for education, experience, and ethics. By becoming accredited, you will be able to show potential clients that you have the knowledge and skills to work as a professional interior designer. In addition, many states require designers to be licensed to practice, and the NCIDQ credential is often used as the basis for licensing exams. As a result, pursuing accreditation can open up new opportunities in your career.
Make sure your portfolio is up-to-date
A big part of building and maintaining a good reputation is ensuring that your portfolio is always up-to-date. This means more than just keeping your website current; it also means regularly updating your printed portfolio and ensuring that every project you take on is one you’re proud to showcase. Of course, a strong portfolio isn’t the only ingredient in a successful design career; it’s crucial. If you want to be known as a designer who is always on the cutting edge, make sure your portfolio reflects that.
Get involved with ASID
A great way to get started is by becoming involved with the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). ASID is the leading professional organization for interior designers. Its members include some of the most talented and experienced professionals in the field. By getting involved with ASID, you can network with other designers, stay up-to-date on industry news and trends, and gain access to a wealth of resources. In addition, ASID offers numerous opportunities for professional development, so you can continue to grow as a designer. Get started today by visiting the ASID website and exploring all the organization offers.
Get involved in your local community
As an interior designer, one of the best ways to build your reputation is to get involved in your local community. There are several ways to do this, such as volunteering for local organizations, joining professional organizations, or participating in community events. By getting involved in your community, you will not only be able to meet new people and make valuable connections, but you will also be able to show potential clients that you are someone who cares about more than just designing houses – you care about making a difference. And that is a reputation worth having.
The bottom line
A strong reputation is essential for any interior designer who wants to be successful. A well-crafted portfolio, positive client testimonials, and active involvement in the industry are all key components of building a strong reputation. By following these tips, you can start building the foundation for a long and successful career in interior design.
