Interior design teacher and business mentor, Kate Hatherell, is set to empower fellow designers with two insightful talks at Design Central South West interiors show: 'Money Mindset for Interior Designers' and 'Artificial Intelligence: Quash the Fear and Embrace the Future of Interior Design.' As a prelude to the event, Kate shares her expertise in this exclusive guest blog, offering invaluable marketing tips and tactics for interior designers in the lead-up to the show.
In the visually driven world that is interior design, standing out from the competition isn't just about being a talented designer, but about how well you can get your work seen by others. And this means you need a strategic approach to marketing. Whether you’re a seasoned interior designer looking to expand your clientele or a newcomer aiming to make your mark, take a look at our top marketing tactics to get your work seen.
Provide High-Quality Visual Content
Interior design is all about visual appeal, and so everything that you share on social media, on your website and everywhere else needs to reflect this. Invest in high-quality photography of your projects to showcase your work across various platforms; it might feel like an indulgence, but professional photography makes a huge difference in showcasing your work.
Once you have high quality visuals, use platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, where visual content is king, to attract potential clients. Regularly update your portfolio with detailed descriptions of each project to highlight your design process and the challenges you overcame. This not only showcases your skills but also helps clients visualise what you can bring to their own spaces.
Leverage Email Marketing
Interior designers are often surprised to learn that email marketing remains one of the most effective tools for direct engagement. Start by building a list of subscribers through your website by offering something of value, like an exclusive design guide or tips for home renovation, in exchange for their email addresses (known as a "lead magnet"). Once you have their email address, you can then share recent projects, customer testimonials, and behind-the-scenes looks into your design process. It's really important to email your list regularly, so that you remain uppermost in their minds. When they come to hire a designer, you will be the first person they think of.
Network Relentlessly
Networking is crucial in the design world, and, in this digital age, never has it been more important to make those one to one, in-person connections. Attend industry events, trade shows, and local community gatherings to meet potential clients and collaborators. Join industry organisations (like The Interior Designers Hub!) to meet fellow designers, to share ideas and to work collaboratively. Remember, effective networking is about building relationships, so when you attend networking events, remember to listen more than you talk, and focus on how you can help others. It's not about handing out business cards!
Marketing for interior designers is all about showcasing your unique style and expertise through various channels, both online and in person. By creating engaging visual content, leveraging email marketing, and ploughing your efforts into networking, you can build a strong brand presence and attract your ideal clients. Remember, consistency is key—keep your marketing efforts consistent, and you’ll see your business grow. For more help with setting up or growing your business, check out our Hub Insiders membership- a resource that every interior designer should have in their back pocket!
Join Kate along with an incredible line up of speakers and exhibitors at Design Central South West this March!