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Introduction
Do you have that flair for designing and decorating the furniture?
Do you keep on suggesting to people how they should decorate their house's interior whenever you visit them?
If yes, then the career of being an interior decorator is the best choice for you.
But is it only the interest that matters or you need some additional skills?
Indeed, to excel in this field, you have to customize the designs sometimes according to your unique plans or according to the customer's needs. You can’t use those old designs you learned during your college days or even those that you read a year back in a magazine! Requirements change with time, and so do the expectations of the customers.
For starting your career in this field, taking up freelance interior designing gigs can also be beneficial for you. This article will discuss seven hacks that can help you to stand apart from other interior decorators in the market.
1. Get An Education.
You might be very good at designing and can think out of the box ideas, but people generally look for professionals with a degree in interior designing in their hands. Also, there is no harm in getting a formal degree in this field as it will eventually increase your job prospects.
You can mention it in your portfolio and internships/training. It will add more value to it. Additionally, you can discuss your designs with your professors and friends. There are chances that you might open a start-up business or become a freelancer.
To pursue this career, there are some license exams that are compulsory to pass like NCIDQ (National Council For Interior Design Qualification) or CCIDC (The California Council For Interior Design Certification), etc. Thus, getting a certificate should be the first and foremost step in becoming a successful interior decorator.
2. Build A Portfolio.
Experience matters the most. You can’t expect big firms to hire you directly; for that, you must do some projects. The best way to begin is to start with some free projects or work for NGOs (Non-Governmental Organisation) at a very less price.
Capture those moments and designs and post them on your social media pages. On professional platforms like LinkedIn, ask people for internships and projects. Market your work through social media. This will help you land at your dream company.
3. Start Your Own Business.
After you have spent a lot of time working with big firms and gained experience, it can be the right decision to open your interior designing company. Make a unique business plan that will solve all the bottleneck issues you have observed in this industry over the past few years.
Try to address every issue, for eg., providing services online, social media marketing, making an app and website, hiring the best decorators for your projects, etc.
4. Start Virtual Decorating.
You can ask your customers to click pictures of the parts, which they want to be decorated, and send them to you. Without stepping outside, you can send them designs and charge a fee for it. Using various software, you can do this task and earn a good number of bucks.
5. Keep Your Knowledge Up To Date.
Get a copy of every magazine, read all the trending blogs and articles on interior designing to keep yourself updated. Keep on searching the web for new ideas and tips to scale your skills and business. Networking will also help you. Start meeting experienced people and participate in discussion forums.
6. Network Is Net Worth.
The more you know people, the more your reach will expand, and the more you will become popular. If you have a business, then the same network will help you get customers. Business cards, a website, a blog, an app, and social media will help you grow your network.
7. Design According To The Location.
Implement the designs which suit a particular location, climate, and local taste. Giving a pinch of modern trends to the old antique looks can work for those people who don’t want to lose their old memories.
Conclusion
Interior designing and decorating require patience. If new ideas don’t strike your mind, keep calm, and discuss with your seniors or friends for suggestions. Be empathetic and think about how a room makes you feel.
Inspiration and enthusiasm are the two doses that you have to take every day before starting your work. Never get demotivated even if your designs get rejected multiple times. This career is about trying new things with various combinations.
Don’t overspend on any room to match your needs. Concentrate on getting new projects and gaining experience. Advertise your work as much as possible. Contact more and more people through podcasts, blogs, and live video sessions. If there is any workshop being conducted, do attend that. With all the above hacks, you can surely become a successful interior decorator.
