The interior design industry is ripe for change as client relationships evolve to adapt to the modern market. Though it can be easy to be hesitant about change, transformation not only challenges designers to reassess their worth but also empowers them to deliver exceptional value to their clients. Embracing out-of-the-box or unfamiliar solutions can make your life more rewarding in a variety of capacities. My guest on today’s episode, Catherine Hersacher, president and interior design principal of Bespoke Fine Interiors, knows all about this shift, and her experiences can be enlightening to any designer looking to maximize their creative satisfaction without sacrificing their work-life balance.
Embracing a New Financial Shift for Greater Freedom
In the ever-evolving world of interior design, modernizing your business models will change the game for you and your clients alike. An approach like shifting to a flat fee model over traditional billing not only streamlines the financial aspect of design projects for yourself but also gives your client a clear and up-front understanding of expectations. That being said, it does call for a more organized, visionary approach!
Catherine’s journey from hourly billing to flat fee proposals was a leap into the unknown that required her to confront her fears and long-established practices. Catherine found that by shifting her mindset from time spent to the value delivered, she was better able to serve her clients and her own creative endeavors. This method allowed her to plan more effectively and to be compensated for the true worth of her expertise and the outcome of the project, rather than merely the hours invested. Designers considering this change should be prepared for a significant adjustment period but can also look forward to greater freedom and potentially higher earnings that better reflect their talent and experience.
The Importance of Adaptability and Client Relationships
Another key lesson from Catherine’s experience is the critical importance of adaptability in client relationships. The unpredictable nature of the design industry can lead to sudden changes, such as contract cancellations or shifts in client finances, which can drastically alter expected fees and scopes of projects. Catherine’s advice underscores the need for designers to be prepared for these shifts and to maintain flexibility. The ability to adapt not only helps in navigating financial uncertainties but also in sustaining client trust and satisfaction. Designers must be willing to adjust their strategies and understand that the ability to pivot gracefully during such situations is an essential skill in the art of client management.
The interior design landscape is changing, with professionals like Catherine leading the way. By embracing change as a means to breathe new life into old, confining habits, designers can stay ahead of the curve and continue creating beautiful, timeless spaces that truly reflect their clients’ personalities and needs. When you’re ready to take your design practice to the next level, explore your expert coaching and training options with Melissa Galt. To catch the entire podcast episode LISTEN HERE.
