Are you an interior designer wondering why you’re not getting hired? Breaking into the interior design industry can be challenging, especially when you're not landing the jobs you desire.
If you’re struggling to get hired as an interior designer, it might be time to reflect on possible reasons and strategize solutions.
As a professional designer with years of experience, I’ve seen many talented individuals face hurdles that could be easily addressed. Let’s explore some common pitfalls and how you can overcome them to boost your career prospects!
Your Potential Client Doesn’t Trust You Yet
Emotion is a huge factor in making a purchase, and the same is true for hiring a designer. Think about it- it takes a lot of vulnerability to admit you need help in your home. When someone shows vulnerability, it’s usually in the presence of someone they trust or feel comfortable with.
People will hire you when they know who you are and see the value in hiring you. So be personable in how you represent yourself online in combination with showcasing your work. People need to see that you are a helper, not a judger.
If potential clients or employers don’t feel confident in your abilities or trust your expertise, they’re unlikely to hire you. This lack of trust can stem from limited experience, a lack of testimonials or references, or an unprofessional demeanor.
Build trust by showcasing your credibility and professionalism. Gather testimonials from previous clients, even if they’re from smaller projects or unpaid work. During client interactions, be transparent, listen carefully to their needs, and communicate your design process clearly. Demonstrating reliability, professionalism, and a genuine interest in your clients’ needs will go a long way in building trust.
2. Your Potential Client Hasn’t Seen You Enough
On average, we need to see something 7 times before we commit to it. So, is your potential client seeing your posts or advertisements consistently? Do you have an online presence? If you do, you don’t have to post every single day, but be consistent- post a few times a week as this shows you are currently in business and taking on clients.
Visibility is key in the interior design industry. Potential clients and employers need to see a body of work that demonstrates your style, skills, and versatility. If you haven’t showcased enough projects or haven’t been consistent in putting your work out there, people may not be convinced of your capabilities.
So increase your visibility by consistently sharing your work across multiple platforms. Regularly update your portfolio with new projects, including any personal or pro bono work you’ve done. Post frequently on social media, sharing not only completed projects but also behind-the-scenes looks, design tips, and your creative process.
The more people see your work, the more they’ll become familiar with your style and skills, and the more likely they are to consider you for their projects.
3. Your Potential Client Doesn’t Know What To Do
Even if potential clients love your work, they might not know how to take the next step in hiring you. Confusing or unclear contact information, lack of a straightforward hiring process, or an inaccessible website can deter clients from reaching out. If the process of hiring you is too complicated, your potential client will give up trying to.
Your contact/booking information needs to be easily locatable and understandable. Consider having a video on your website that walks your client through the process of hiring you, or make periodic posts about how to book with you. This type of information needs to be front and center for your potential clients to see.
Ensure your contact information is prominently displayed on your website, social media profiles, and marketing materials. Create a dedicated page that outlines your services, process, and what clients can expect when they work with you.
By addressing these three common obstacles—building trust with clients, increasing your visibility, and simplifying the hiring process—you can significantly improve your chances of landing your next interior design job!
Remember, success in this industry requires not only creativity and skill but also strategic self-promotion and clear communication.
Reflect on these points and take actionable steps to enhance your professional image and approach. With persistence and the right strategies, you’ll soon see more opportunities come your way.
Ready to take your interior design career to the next level? Check out my online interior design courses where you’ll gain in-depth knowledge, practical skills, and expert insights to stand out in the competitive design industry.
Let’s turn your passion for design into a thriving career!
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