Develop a strong mission statement that communicates your passion for design.
Anyone can become a famous, or high-profile, interior designer if she is the best at what she does and is willing to do the work. A strong knowledge of design styles, an engaging philosophy, a level of authority in the field, a solid work ethic, and lots of experience will get you on the road to designer stardom.
Instructions
Get Educated
1. Get a degree at a reputable school. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary education is necessary for entry-level positions in interior design.
2. Be a diligent student. Learn the basics, ask questions, be open to critique.
3. Make the most of your teachers' knowledge. Tertiary institutions provide access to people who have worked in the business and who can offer solid advice. Pick their brains.
4. Explore internship opportunities. Choose those with companies that are high-profile, even if the pay is not.
Develop a Strong Philosophy
5. Think about what motivates you to design. Write this down.
6. Ask yourself this: What do I want every client to know about my design? Is it my passion for color, my strength in mixing old and new styles, my skill in creating balance, or my eclectic sense of design? Write this out.
7. Create a mission statement that separates you from other interior designers. Using the written answers, come up with two or three sentences that clearly and succinctly explain what motivates you to design. Here are some examples:
"... to create beautiful spaces on time and on budget, while contributing to the full expression of your vision."
"...providing complete interior design services that exceed the expectations of clients who desire a professional, signature interior for their home or business."
Work for a High-Profile Interior Design Firm
8. Learn about the day-to-day operations of a high-profile business. As Christine Piotrowski writes, "Interior design is also about managing and working with other designers, allied professionals, clients and vendors. It is about calculating fees...in order to make a profit."
9. Develop your negotiation, people and time management skills. These are key to becoming a high-profile interior designer.
10. Listen to the sales people, the customer service staff and the owners of the firm. Note how a successful operation handles customer inquiries and problems. Emulate their service skills.
Become an Authority
11. Join an association. For a high-profile interior designer, membership in the American Society of Interior Designers or the International Interior Design Association is required. Several other groups exist and should be reviewed for benefits and offerings.
12. Write. Submit articles to design magazines, blogs, and websites.
13. Speak. Volunteer to speak at events planned by your employer and at local club meetings; team up with vendors or other designers, or plan one yourself.
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