If you are a smart and savvy interior designer, you lean into process.

What is “process”, you say?

Process is the strategic action of putting one foot in front of the other in a deliberate, measured way in order to control and simplify a task.

For interior designers, process can be as simple as how you onboard a new project to reducing into components the steps of an interior design project. For example, space planning comes after measuring an existing space, budgeting and sourcing comes after space planning, etc..

Processes and systems simplify your biz life, save time, stop mistakes from happening, stop things from falling through the cracks…and processes and systems give you peace of mind.

With clear business process and systems, you are leaning into well-worn territory, supported by hard-earned, sometimes painfully acquired knowledge and past experiences.

Without clear business process and systems, you are forever stressed, stabbing around in the dark, losing track of details and deadlines along the way.

It may sound simple, but developing and refining your business systems and process is as important as developing your design skills when it comes to running an interior design firm. Not convinced?  Below are the top four reasons you need to lean into process when running an interior design business:

#1 Process Reduces Your Client’s Stress

One of the most common questions I receive from potential clients is, “What does a typical design project look like”? Being able to easily and logically articulate your process that you lean into throughout the course of a project shows your client you are skilled and an expert, not some flaky decorator who’s going to take their money and play around with fabric and color.

#2 Process Massively Reduces Your Stress as a Designer

Leaning into process and systems not only reduces a client’s stress but yours as well! Knowing with confidence what needs to happen to move each project to the next phase, allows you to focus on things like client service and creative output without the fear that details are falling through the cracks. Process and systems become your checks and balances.

#3 Process Allows Designers to Work More Efficiently

Time is money, lovelies! The more efficiently you can move through a project (without sacrificing quality, of course) the quicker you can take on additional work and bring additional dollars into your businesses. Additionally, clients place high value on efficiency.

By creating and sticking to a set process, you are constantly treading a well-worn and proven path rather than “reinventing the wheel” every time.

#4 Process Allows You To Track Valuable Information

How long does it take to produce a typical space plan? What is the average turnaround time needed to source furniture and furnishings for a single space? How long does it take to process orders?

This information is gold for any design business. It allows designers to give their clients an accurate estimate of what’s required to fabulously and efficiently execute their project, AND, it is mission-critical to be able to accurately project design service fees.

As you build your design business, creating clear systems and processes that work for you, your team, and your clients should be top of mind. Lean into it, and watch beautiful things happen.

Not satisfied with your interior design business revenue, success or feel-good-factor because of bone-crushing stress? Running a design biz that is under 7 years old, or just starting out in the interior design industry? Avoid common pitfalls and set yourself up for success by signing up for my online program created specifically for Designers, Creatives and Sensitives who want to create their most $$$ lucrative and successful design biz. Registration is opening soon – and I’m offering the program only once this year so do not miss out….you can learn more about The Successful Design Biz Academy here!