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Damn Good Interior Designer

Damn Good Interior Designer

Author: Cheryl Kees Clendenon and Liz Lapan

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Join Cheryl Kees Clendenon and Liz Lapan, the dynamic duo behind the visionary and integrator balancing all the moving parts of a full service interior design firm in their no-nonsense and thought-provoking podcast, the Damn Good Designer.

Each episode is full of damn good truths and real talk as they share invaluable insights on how to run and build a successful business while challenging the norms, the industry, each other and YOU. Emphasizing a business-savvy approach, Cheryl and Liz take you on a roller coaster of discovery, considering success from a different lens, breaking free from groupthink, and encouraging you to embrace your own authentic designer self. There is not much they will not say “out loud”.

In this podcast, you'll find no room for conformity as they shatter the mold of one-size-fits-all business practices. Cheryl's fearless attitude showcases a refusal to follow the conventional wisdom, ask “why” repeatedly and reject what no longer makes sense in today’s world.

If you're seeking a dose of inspiration, a splash of unconventional wisdom, and a refreshing perspective on the entrepreneurial world, the Damn Good Designer is your go-to podcast. Tune in and let Cheryl and Liz, along with their expert guests in the fields of designers, architects, landscapers, and other creative professionals, guide you toward building a remarkable business that defies norms and sets you on a path to unparalleled success."Get ready to challenge the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary!
About the hosts:
Cheryl Kees Clendenon-
2021 KBB Person of the year
2022 Design Studio winner Dallas Arts Awards
2021 Changemaker Design Hounds

200 or so years ago a child came roaring into the world feet first ready to show up and argue a cause. Just because. Her mother still maintains the story is- she was screaming-“why”- from the minute she landed wrong side up and slapped the doctor for disturbing her afternoon nap

And to this day does not give “it” a rest except when she is sleeping. Which is where you will find her only between the hours of 2am and 7:30am. A belligerent non-smoker (in case you were wondering) and a frequent challenger of anything that resembles “normal” or desired by the masses, Cheryl is a natural born contrarian who talks faster than 2x speed on a podcast

She gravitates towards wanting to help clients and designers who are the square pegs in a world of round holes, lose earrings impossibly frequently, fall off of platform shoes and are unapologetically saucy. Relaxing is not in the skill set. Life begins and ends with family.

Her sacred words are: Why, Percipient, Whizbang and Profit.

But please do not say the words: Package, Blocks, Red Flag, Overwhelm or Picked. Hives break out and it gets ugly.

Liz Lapan

VP of Everything, Interior Designer,
Work Wife, Team Cook, Unicorns

People ask, when did you KNOW you had found your ideal work wife- Cheryl will reply ” When she drew me 8 different cacti on her 3rd day because I said -find me a damn cactus”

The woman who has never been through an airport without being extended an invitation to stop and play show and tell with the contents of her backpack, can single handedly plow snow with a rake and rescue her boss in a snowstorm in Arizona.–yes, I said Arizona–after sleeping all night in a tuna can of a rental car.

An accomplished designer in her own right with an amazing sense of color and pattern, Liz can wear the designer hat in the morning, the project manager hat at noon and return to the office being the ultimate manager of all the things. Client’s love her, Subs respect her and the team adores the woman who gets “it” done-whatever “it” may be.

RESOURCES:

www.damngooddesigner.com
https://www.theinteriordesignparadigm.com/
Want to be a guest? Apply here: https://forms.clickup.com/8404193/f/80f71-613517/PFK3QDSALZ30VONMTP
34 Episodes
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This week was a bit of a whirlwind coming home from High Point! We had the pleasure of having Jude Charles as a guest and we got to meet in person while we were attending Market.Jude Charles is a filmmaker and for over 18 years and has been producing documentaries for entrepreneurs. He has produced stories for Google, Steve Harvey, LuAnn Nigara, Rick Campos, and dozens of visionary CEOs. He is also the author of Dramatic Demonstration. This book is a roadmap that teaches you how to dig deep to find compelling stories that no one else knows, and then leverage those stories to grow your business. Jude’s mission is to lead and empower entrepreneurs to have relentless, unwavering courage.We had a great discussion with Jude about the power of storytelling and pulling back the veil of your brand identity and how this can help designers connect with their audience in a more authentic way. We also discussed the importance of being vulnerable and showing the real person behind the brand. Chery and Liz emphasizes the importance of showing behind the scenes and the unique process and challenges that each designer brings. We also discuss and emphasize the importance of building relationships with clients, rather than viewing them as simply a source of income while sharing practical ways designers can identify and showcase their core values to attract aligned clients and opportunities. To get your free resource from Jude - click hereNOW ENROLLING FOR THE DESIGN PARADIGM A Business Model Based on Projecting Profit, Marketing to Your People, Stellar Sales Skills and Proper Positioning of your firm. The Design Paradigm is meant to give you one on one guidance toStrengthen your business model Set firm boundaries Remind yourself of the value you offer and then some! This will be focused 1 on 1 individual strategy sessions centered around milestones we set together to increase your bottom line as well as live group Q & As!Because when you lead with confidence, you attract clients who respect your work, trust your pricing, and will gladly refer you to others.ENROLL NOWRESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy...
How good of a partner are you to your vendors? Strong vendor relationships are a secret to success! Many designers do not think about their vendors until there is a problem. This approach does not allow to maximize the partnership. Getting to know your reps, your customer service people, and marketing team can enhance your bottom line and the customer experience you provide to your own clients. Learn Liz and Cheryl's eight best tips for getting the information you need from your vendors and not getting just want you need but how to make it a win win for the both of you.NOW ENROLLING FOR THE DESIGN PARADIGM A Business Model Based on Projecting Profit, Marketing to Your People, Stellar Sales Skills and Proper Positioning of your firm. The Design Paradigm is meant to give you one on one guidance toStrengthen your business model Set firm boundaries Remind yourself of the value you offer and then some! This will be focused 1 on 1 individual strategy sessions centered around milestones we set together to increase your bottom line as well as live group Q & As!Because when you lead with confidence, you attract clients who respect your work, trust your pricing, and will gladly refer you to others.ENROLL NOWRESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
Cheryl and Liz are exploring five key roadblocks to bringing a new client on board and signing that contract. By showing your expertise to the client earlier than later, you remove many difficulties from the sale itself and you set yourself up for being able to deliver your best work. You cannot rely on the lead to peruse every detail of your website. Take the time to understand your leads, who you are selling to and put yourself in their shoes in how you would want to be treated.NOW ENROLLING FOR THE DESIGN PARADIGM A Business Model Based on Projecting Profit, Marketing to Your People, Stellar Sales Skills and Proper Positioning of your firm. The Design Paradigm is meant to give you one on one guidance toStrengthen your business model Set firm boundaries Remind yourself of the value you offer and then some! This will be focused 1 on 1 individual strategy sessions centered around milestones we set together to increase your bottom line as well as live group Q & As!Because when you lead with confidence, you attract clients who respect your work, trust your pricing, and will gladly refer you to others.ENROLL NOWRESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
Are your clients receiving and perceiving what you say to them properly? What you say, how you say it, and why you say it is vital to communicate the value and professionalism your firm offers through strategic and consistent positioning. This means understanding and committing to your target audience, being aware of how you position your firm, and not trying to appeal to everyone. Why?Positioning is incredibly important for attracting and retaining clients who truly appreciate your work--the key to successful client relationships! Learn how Cheryl uses strategic positioning in her every aspect of her business and how you can start doing this also!Looking to unlock your firm's potential? Join us in 3 Days of Business Savvy with "Positioning for Profitability" guiding you through the THREE strategies to feel confident in your business model, take the action you need to implement, and project the income you could (and can!) make.Learn more now!RESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business ONE ON ONE coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
If you have known me for a while you may have heard my "Top 12 Truths for Being a Shopkeep" and one of my faves that I stand by is "Retail is not for sissies!" And I know that our special guest, Christina Van Blake of Home Design Dover feels the exact same way. Christina, or as some call her Christi, is the own and prominent designer serving the Maine and NH Seacoast area for over 22 years. Her specialties in color, pattern and texture come from 3 generations of designing women which you will learn from listening. Christina truly enjoys her work, her clients and design of all kinds and her enthusiasm for the art of this business ensures each client fully understands the options and choices, why they work, and how they reflect their personal taste with the end result being a carefully curated space that feels uniquely personal and beautifully functional. Join us as we discuss the ups and downs, with a good sense of humor, of owning a retail showroom and how to mix and integrate with a full service design firm. There are so many moving parts that are dealt with on a daily basis of owning a retail showroom and you must hone your knowledge on selling and understanding the vendors that you choose to get into bed with (so to speak, see what I did there)! This will not be the only time Christina joins us on the podcast--retail is one large beast and we want you to join us in the journey!RESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
Listen up folks--we all have a love-hate relationship with social media right? Yes we do! It is a changing animal, and if you don't keep up with it you may be missing out on amazing leads because you are not staying relevant in our industry. Liz is off handling projects and Cheryl seized the opportunity to speak with a pro podcaster and social media guru, Darla Powell of Wingnut Social. Darla was a police officer, turned interior designer, to now founder and director of her social media agency. Being well-versed in the design industry, Darla saw a need for a social media agency focused on marketing strategies and practices specifically for interior designers and architects.If social media is not your strong suit--do not be afraid to hire outside help so you can focus on your strengths within your firm. And like you encourage your clients to TRUST THE PROCESS, you must be doing the same in your marketing efforts. Listen to Cheryl and Darla discuss the importance of strategy, challenges you will face, and how to utilize AI without losing your authenticity! You don't want to miss this episode! RESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
What should you do when a client starts sending you items to evaluate? In this episode we discuss handling changes that the client initiates in design projects and the importance of respectfully evaluating items that the client provides to ensure they fit the design plan and overall project goals. We recently had a similar client experience (yes, we are in the trenches with you!) and share how we approached this client who wanted to save money by selecting a less expensive item for their project. Communication is key and we must, as professionals, assess these items, even if they are outside the initial scope, to avoid potential issues and ensure client satisfaction. The foundation to having a successful client relationship is established by a clear scope of work and being transparent with clients about the process and associated costs.RESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
What is the #1 marketing asset of your business? Your website! It is a living breathing entity of our firm. Join us with our special guest Victoria Marcouillier, owner of Brandwell and host of the Branding Business School podcast, as we discuss the importance of branding, the value of marketing throughout the client relationship lifecycle why your the website's role is a crucial marketing asset. Learn how there are strategic aspects of design that are not merely about aesthetics but also about influencing client perceptions and behaviors. Your branding should combine creativity with strategy, aiming to boost your confidence and help you stand out in your industry. Not only is your website your biggest marketing asset but it also is important to manage the leads you generate from your website. Cheryl and Liz share their experience in managing leads effectively, highlighting that immediate follow-up is crucial for converting leads into clients and why it is important to deliver quick wins to keep clients motivated and prevent buyer's remorse. Stay tuned for our Damn Good Truth!Read more about Victoria below!Victoria Marcouillier is the owner of BrandWell Designs, a premier Squarespace website design and branding agency. She and her team specialize in helping service-based female entrepreneurs establish a confident online presence through strategic branding and website design. As an entrepreneur and mother of two young children, Victoria understands the challenges of balancing work and family life.Victoria is passionate about helping women build successful brands that command higher prices, liberate them from the constant trade of time for money, and enable them to promote their businesses confidently. With expertise in brand strategy and design, Victoria and her all-female team are dedicated to inspiring and supporting women to become leaders in their industry. RESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
It is never too late to start over. This week we have a wonderful special guest from New York! I have known and coached Diane Bianchini of Dream Interiors NY for a number of year and she is here to talk with us this week about her path to becoming a designer with a background in Aeronautical engineering--talk about weathering the seasons of change (see what I did there?!) We discuss the importance of resilience and adaptability throughout her careers and how her varied experiences have enriched her approach to design.My team and I have loved our continued relationship with Diane and she shares her initial apprehension about adopting a flat-fee structure for her services but discovered it was a win win for both her and her clients by allowing for better planning and profitability, demonstrating that taking calculated risks can lead to positive outcomes.It is ALWAYS important to never stop learning, embrace change, and stay bold. These are the keys to sustained success in the design industry.RESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
Are you hiring too late? What I have found is that most designers do not hire soon enough! Hiring a team challenges and helps elevate your business to a level where sustainable growth and scalability are achievable. When we look to hire we are looking to cater to some bonus projects and also the way that our current team is developing in terms upward mobility for other team members. This is where we need the extra support to help push that along. Learn our top tips in determining when to know it is the right time to hire for YOUR business and WHY the right time may be now!RESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
Are you facing new challenges or going through a season of change? We are--yes we are in the trenches with you, really! Weathering the seasons of change is unpredictable and it is in these moments where we find out how resilient and adaptable we are. If you are not not prepared, then one of these events such as maternity leave, death in the family or a career change can disrupt your business to a point you cannot recover.How are you going to be prepared and how can you tackle this when these seasons fall into your lap? Listen for our five tips that we are doing and how, if prepared, it can propel many small business owners to greater growth upon emerging.RESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
The legal aspects of a business are super important to me as a business owner. We will always face project delays, especially in the last couple years, and we must be thinking about how we can protect ourselves. In my world, clients have to recognize the delays in executing are unrelated to our performance and we must get new bids/pricing or get the job up and running again after potential delays, and most importantly keep the client on the books despite pricing increases or the workload capacity being impacted. This week we are chatting with Attorney at Law, Wendy Estela who has an interest in working with Interior Designers with 25 years of in-house law firm experience. Wendy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Minors in Communications and International Studies from Boston College. She speaks Spanish. She received her law degree and LL.M. in Environmental Law from Pace University School of Law in New York and an LL.M. in Insurance Law from University of Connecticut School of Law. She partners with small and medium-sized businesses, many of which are owned by minorities, women, and veterans and has worked with A list designers. AD 100 designers and just the regular folks like the rest of us too! Wendy is a frequent speaker on a range of topics, including contract negotiations and issues impacting the interior design industry.Join us as we chat with Wendy about how to protect our businesses!Want to hear more podcasts that are too juicy for public ears? Click here to sign up for our private podcast!RESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
Cheryl is passionate about what she does and loves seeing other small business owners and creative entrepreneurs succeed. We often get to hear success stories and want to be able to share this with others while also focusing on the unique market, business and experience other designers have around the country. This week we are starting a "DESIGNER FEATURE" series where once a month we will introduce you to designers Cheryl has met and coached in the last six years. Michele Doyle and Jay Volz, designer and architect, created a partnership and business called Bluefoot Architecture & Design three years ago. Listen as we discuss their unique and savvy business structure, why and how they formed this partnership and what obstacles they have had to overcome. Want to hear more podcasts that are too juicy for public ears? Click here to sign up for our private podcast!RESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is now enrolling! The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteNot ready for the full program? Check out our stand alone section Client Management and Processes!Where we will be perfecting all of the details of EVERY PROCESS in your playbook with my 100 steps up the mountain and our entire process workflow; including the important client interactions before they become clients! Then we will hone in on the win-win of expert client management after they have signed the contract!Damn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
We're trying something new this week and Cheryl is in the hot seat while Liz interviews her about her process for initial consultations, also known as "The Cheryl Show." Cheryl goal is simply to get to know the potential clients and see if her firm can help them. She doesn't worry about being overly prepared for these meetings because they are organic--this is IMPORTANT! You must find the balance between being the designer that discusses the process, emphasizes the need to establish oneself as an expert AND build a relationship with the client. You must use the initial consultation as an opportunity to listen and understand the client's needs.Want to hear more podcasts that are too juicy for public ears? Click here to sign up for our private podcast!RESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is now enrolling! The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteNot ready for the full program? Check out our stand alone section Client Management and Processes!Where we will be perfecting all of the details of EVERY PROCESS in your playbook with my 100 steps up the mountain and our entire process workflow; including the important client interactions before they become clients! Then we will hone in on the win-win of expert client management after they have signed the contract!Damn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
Are your clients dragging their feet, hemming and hawing after the presentation and maybe even ghosting you--what do you do? In this episode we discuss five considerations when a client is not making decisions and how to handle them. Designers need to ask themselves certain questions to help determine exactly where the problem lies and if the indecision rooted in something deeper than uncertainty. There may be more than meets the eye and it is up to us, as the expert, to come up with a solution rather than blaming a client's indecision. Want to hear more podcasts that are too juicy for public ears? Click here to sign up for our private podcast!RESOURCE LINKS:The Design Paradigm is now enrolling! The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteDamn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
Our firm, In Detail Interiors, gets a lot of leads and I am grateful for every single one of them. However, that doesn't mean we take on every job of every size and every type--and neither can you. You must have guidelines (NOT A SCRIPT) on how you determine what will work for your set up of your firm, your bandwidth and your resource capacity. Learn how we focus on asking the lead questions, listening to their needs, and finding the key talking point to help us qualify our lead. This is what will set the stage for a successful initial consult meeting.Want to hear more podcasts that are too juicy for public ears? Click here to sign up for our private podcast!RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Take a peek at the latest issue of the Damn Good Designer Magazine! Click below to get access. The latest design competitions - what you should be doing in 2024, answers to burning questions and more. Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
Going to High Point Market and learning about what you sell is the BEST investment you can make for your business! After 29 markets Cheryl had the honor of talking with Tammy Nagem, CEO of High Point Market authority, to tell you why market is still one of the best business investments you can make. Learn how Tammy and her team help optimize the experience for designers and why it is important for all of you to attend. We discuss vendor relationships, the experience, the events, and how networking is important in this industry. Hear how Tammy and her team are striving to meet the needs of the designer and adapting to the industry. If you want to talk about the cost of doing business, Cheryl believes High Point Market is a MUST.Want to hear more podcasts that are too juicy for public ears? Click here to sign up for our private podcast!RESOURCE LINKS:Be a guest on our podcast! Click here to tell us all about your epic subject you want to discuss!Damn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.Take a peek at the latest issue of the Damn Good Designer Magazine! Click below to get access. The latest design competitions - what you should be doing in 2024, answers to burning questions and more. Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
Successful businesses, do not operate on a basis of having to trick people--so why are businesses doing this? Fear. We have to consider where we are as an industry if we are so fearful of clients finding something out about the names of our vendors or comparison shopping. Interior design is about creativity, expertise, and creating unique spaces that reflect the client's personality and needs. It's a service, not just a shopping list. But as long as you do things that makes clients see you as the person holding a shopping list and not delivering a creative vision, you are going to be in the middle of these issues. Hear what Cheryl and Liz have to say on how they have their clients see their value.Want to hear more podcasts that are too juicy for public ears? Click here to sign up for our private podcast!The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, 12 written 300+ page workbooks, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteNot ready for the full year? The Business Model section will be open soon for enrollment!RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.The Damn Good Designer Magazine is here! Click here to read it!Take a peek at the latest issue of the Damn Good Designer Magazine! Click below to get access. The latest design competitions - what you should be doing in 2024, answers to burning questions and more. Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
Ep 16: Is it me??

Ep 16: Is it me??

2024-02-2043:18

We are not holding back this week - the term "red flag" is banned! (at least in my book) Stop the mob mentality that a client is a "red flag" for asking questions about your contract or process. Your mindset must shift from "run, run, get out now!" to "they do not know, what they do not know". You must be educating your client and positioning your company for your ideal client. This episode will have you take a look in the mirror at your business to be sure you are refining your senses and messaging to your ideal client. Want to hear more podcasts that are too juicy for public ears? Click here to sign up for our private podcast!The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, 12 written 300+ page workbooks, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteNot ready for the full year? The Business Model section will be open soon for enrollment!RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.The Damn Good Designer Magazine is here! Click here to read it!Take a peek at the latest issue of the Damn Good Designer Magazine! Click below to get access. The latest design competitions - what you should be doing in 2024, answers to burning questions and more. Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
It is a choice to be professional. One you make to uphold professional standards and practice in such a way that you are advancing your firm. No one is going to do it. In order to advance as a strong contender in the marketplace and someone that is respected and viewed as a serious business owner, then you must be aware of what is happening in the industry. Hear what makes Cheryl’s Top Ten Troublesome Transgressions list and how to make sure YOU are not doing one of these!Want to hear more podcasts that are too juicy for public ears? Click here to sign up for our private podcast!The Design Paradigm is a 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, 12 written 300+ page workbooks, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteNot ready for the full year? The Business Model section will be open soon for enrollment!RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - WebsiteBusiness coaching for interior designers with honest, real-deal guidance from Cheryl.The Damn Good Designer Magazine is here! Click here to read it!Take a peek at the latest issue of the Damn Good Designer Magazine! Click below to get access. The latest design competitions - what you should be doing in 2024, answers to burning questions and more. Small Business - Think Big - FacebookLed by interior Design Business coach, Cheryl Clendenon, please join the free Facebook group Small Business Think Big --for designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. ABOUT THE HOSTS: Cheryl Kees Clendenon2021 KBB Person of the Year2022 Design Studio winner Dallas Arts Awards2021 Changemaker Design HoundsInterior Design Business Coach since 2017Liz LapanVP of Everything, Interior Designer, Work Wife, Team Cook, UnicornsMentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm - One on One Business Strategy ProgramThe Design Paradigm
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