Designer Blitz

Celebrating Personal Freedom

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 13:47:00 +0000

Happy Independence Day!

I’m getting ready for a big reunion party at my house this evening, but I wanted to write to you today about “freedom.”

As we celebrate the birthday of our country, many people are feeling extremely grateful for the freedoms we have. And as designers and business owners in this country, we have the incredible opportunity to create anything we want.

As your own boss, you can choose to design your business to support whatever lifestyle you desire. You are completely free to run your business and live your life on your own terms.

Are you doing that?

Imagine...

Imagine if you were able to leverage your talent and your time so that you could give value to more people – without working any more hours.

Imagine if you could work when you want, how you want, and where you want – and make more money!

(You can.)

This is what I’ve been doing over the last few years, and it’s what I’m going to personally teach to 25 of you over the next year.

Will you be one of the lucky ones to join me?

If you are ready to transform your business (or start a whole new one) and begin living a truly extraordinary life, I would love to work with you.

Get all the details of the Extreme Designer Makeover program here, and join me as we expand what you thought was possible for your business. But hurry – early bird pricing ends when Independence Day is over.

Extreme Designer Makeover
Transform your business... transform your life

CLICK FOR DETAILS - - > EXTREME DESIGNER MAKEOVER

To your success,

P.S. Enjoy your holiday weekend. I wish you the freedom to express yourself and love your life!

I Surrender!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 18:54:00 +0000

Thoughts from my experience at David Neagle's Experience the Reality of Success

Because this was my second time at David Neagle’s Experience the Reality of Success, I decide to have a different experience. Instead of participating fully in the powerful experiential exercises that David presented, I wanted to simply observe.

Or did I?

No, I really didn’t WANT to sit back and observe. What is the point of investing in a workshop and flying across the country for a week if I’m not going to participate? So why wasn’t I fully committing to the experience?

On day three, I realized what was holding me back. Fear.

Fear of disappointment that my experience wouldn’t compare to the incredible experience I had last year at ERS.

Fear of failure – it’s so much easier to claim I didn’t participate than to admit I didn’t reach my goal.

Fear of looking bad – I’m a success coach, for goodness sake! This is supposed to come easy to me.

I know it’s common to have these fears, and I’ve dealt with them all many times. I also know that if I “feel the fear and do it anyway,” I come out stronger and happier.

But I still wasn’t committing.

On the last day of the workshop I figured it out. I remembered that the reason I had such a profound experience at the last ERS workshop was that I completely surrendered. I mean completely. I let go of control and trusted that everything would be perfect. I even surrendered to the FEAR. And that is what let me walk right through it.

Surrendering is what allowed me to have such a meaningful experience at the workshop. And it is what allowed me to step into my most powerful, successful year ever as an entrepreneur.

Surrender.

Kind of a mysterious concept. So easy, and yet so hard. Hard to trust that it will be okay. Hard to know that the answers are already inside you. Hard to believe that success is yours NOW, if only you will allow it. Yet, once you decide to completely surrender to the power of the universe and the power inside of you, everything becomes easy.

Answers to Your Questions

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 17:19:00 +0000

(regarding "Ezines Done For You!")

I'm just getting back to work after an incredible week in Las Vegas. I'll be sharing a lot about my experience and inspiration from that powerful workshop in future posts, but for now...

Many questions are still coming in about my new Email Newsletters "Done For You" program, so I wanted to answer them for you in this post.

I know how valuable newsletters are for the success of a design business. Email newsletters have done SO much for me over the last few years, and I have watched other designers expand their client base, get national publicity, gain many referrals, and increase profits - all from sending a regular monthly newsletter. But let's face it. Producing it can be an overwhelming, time-consuming HASSLE.

I would love to take over this task for you. Not only will I eliminate hours of work, stress, and hassle from your business, but I will produce a newsletter in the most effective way, using years of learning, studies, and personal experience creating email newsletters to grow several businesses.

(in a rush? check out all the details of this program here)

Answers to your questions:

Q. If I register now, can I start my newsletter at a later time?
A. Yes! If you'd like to take advantage of the launch promotion (special pricing only until Wednesday), you can register now and write in when you'd like to begin.

Q. Can you incorporate my logo into the newsletter?
A. Yes! We have added an option that allows you to have a customized newsletter that includes your logo. You choose the template that you want, and we will incorporate your logo into it.

Q. Can I create / edit the content myself?
A. Not in this program. The "Ezines Done For You" program is for designers who really want to delegate this part of their marketing.

Q. What email address will the newsletter be coming from?
A. YOURS! Yes, this will appear to be coming directly from YOU. There is no way your clients will know that someone else is creating the newsletter for you.

Q. What if I don't have a website yet?
A. While you are waiting for your website to be designed, you can provide a link to any webpage where you have a presence (Facebook, Twitter, AvaLiving, etc.). Your readers can still see your portfolio or information about your business. You will also want to include your other contact information in the newsletter (address and phone number) so that it is easy for your prospects to get in touch with you.

Do NOT wait until you have all your other promotional materials perfect. Start creating relationships now! There is no better way to generate sales than to give value and stay in constant contact with your prospects.

Q. What if I don't have a large list?
A. This program will help you BUILD YOUR LIST! After you register, I will give you several tools to help you grow your list of subscribers quickly. I started sending my newsletter with 8 subscribers. My list grew quickly mostly because I was sending a newsletter. Sending a regular newsletter is actually one of the best ways to grow your list!

Q. How many should I have on my list for this program to be effective for me?
A. The designers I work with who are getting great results from their monthly newsletters have an average of 50 - 200 subscribers. Most started with a lot less and grew their lists quickly using my easy tips. The SIZE of the list is not as important as the QUALITY. If you are sending to past clients, friends, and family - all of whom you have a relationship with, you will get far better results than if you send to a larger list of strangers. (By the way, don't discount friends and family. Ask them to subscribe even if you don't think they will ever be clients of yours. I get loads of referral business from friends and family who have just read a newsletter and realized they knew someone who could use my services.)

As a smart business strategy, you should have your own newsletter no matter how small your list of subscribers is. But if you are just getting started and haven't gathered any client's email addresses yet, I would suggest you start by doing that. Tell you clients, friends, and family that you are getting ready to launch a company newsletter, capture all their email addresses, and then contact me so we can get started!

Q. Can I highlight a different service / offer a different special each month?
A. Yes, there is a way to do that: Your personal information, along with your photo, will appear in EVERY newsletter that goes out. This section will remain the same for all newsletters, BUT if you'd like to offer something different every month (special monthly discount, new product or service, news about your company, etc.), you can do that on a webpage on your own website, and we will link to it in the newsletter. (The link remains the same, and you change the text on your webpage each month).

Q. What kinds of articles go in the newsletters?
A. Each month, there is an article that gives your clients general design tips and inspiration, and another article about using color. These articles are written to show off your expertise, create trust in your abilities as a designer, and give value to your readers.

Q. What are the topics of the newsletter articles?
A. Each month the article topic will vary. The main article will on be a general design / decorating topic, giving valuable tips that a homeowner can use (layout, furniture, lighting, fabrics, etc.). There will also be one article that gives information on a "color of the month." This article explains the basic psychology of that color, where it is best used in the home, and how it makes you feel.

If you have a specific niche within interior design or decorating, or you are a full-service designer, these articles will be appropriate for your clients and prospects. Your BIO section will show your specific niche, but the articles will show that you like to give value and share ideas on all aspects of beautifying their home.

Q. Is there a long-term commitment?
A. No, you can cancel at any time. You can, however, save $200 if you'd like to register for a year in advance.

There are more questions answered on the webpage, so feel free to browse: http://nikastewart.com/ezinesdoneforyou.htm.

Email Newsletters Done For You!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 18:27:00 +0000

Several years ago, when I launched my email newsletter, I was among a small handful of designers to be using this amazing tool. I had the opportunity, early on, to learn from the experts and experiment to find out exactly what works (and what absolutely doesn't). Over the years, I have seen the email newsletter craze really take off in our industry, as designers caught on to the incredible value they provide. It has gotten to a point where it is no longer a novelty or an advantage to have a newsletter - it's become a necessity.

These days, if you aren't using email newsletters to stay in touch with your customers, increase your sales, and build your expert status, you are behind the times, and probably losing customers to your competition.

As an expert in email newsletters, I know the latest, cutting-edge strategies for maximizing the impact of your newsletter, keeping clients interested, and inspiring clients to take action. After helping many, many designers build their own newsletters through my Email Newsletters for Designers book and audio program (and getting loads of emails begging me to “just do it for me!”), I found that there is a need to go a step further. So ..

How would you like to benefit from my 8 years of experience in creating high-impact, relevant newsletters? I am excited to launch a brand new service where I actually create and send the newsletters for you! It could not possibly be any easier. Imagine having a great newsletter - packed with interesting decorating ideas and tips - emailed to YOUR clients and prospects every month, with your logo, photo, website, phone number, and bio included.

Finally – sending a monthly email newsletter will be effortless.

You have heard about email newsletters for years now, and you have been meaning to get to it one day. This is a perfect opportunity to have it done for you - and done the right way.

Interested in learning more? Log onto: www.nikastewart.com/ezinesdoneforyou.htm to get all the details.

Notes from the Interior Design Summit:How to Start a Giving Program for Your Business

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 23:12:00 +0000

Inspiration from Maggie Keenan's class, "5 Ways Giving Makes A Difference for Your Design Business"

Having a Giving Program is a great business strategy. It creates Win-Win. You get involved in social issues AND boost your image.

How does "giving" helps businesses?

enhance your business image
increase sales
build client loyalty
improve employee retention
create / boost / enhance your brand

COOL TIP: Giving Program does not have to be about YOU giving money. Get creative. Hold a contest. Raise money. Donate time or knowledge.

Don't treat "giving" as side project. It should be an integral part of business. Otherwise you won't reap the benefits AND neither will the charity!

First thing to do is define your Giving Goals. Then develop your Giving Budget. Then create your Giving Story. Use your Giving Story in all your marketing.

If you are a local business, why not give to LOCAL causes. Help your community & boost awareness of your own business among ideal prospects.

INTERESTING STATISTIC: If price and quality are equal, consumers will switch and recommend a new company based on a Giving Program or Cause. Wow!

Make sure your Giving Program is "authentic, not opportunistic."

Maggie F. Keenan, Ed.D., is the author of Small Businesses Give Big… why charitable giving is a great business strategy. You can find her book at: www.smallbusinessesgivebig.com

Notes from the Interior Design Summit:Everything Designers Need to Know about Staging

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 02:35:00 +0000

Here are some notes and ideas from Craig Schiller's class, "Everything Designers Need to Know about Staging"

When staging, designers need to know that the HOUSE is the star. Not the design. Not the designer. The HOUSE.

What designers need to give up is the need to add flair, drama, personality, ego.

What designers need to ADD is speed.

Staging design is disposable, it's quick, it's all about marketing.

Craig Schiller is the founder of Real Estaging, Chicago’s premier home staging company. He has staged 100’s of homes in the greater Chicago market. His staging work was highlighted in Home Magazine. He writes the #1 blog in the country on home staging. Craig has spoken to numerous audiences about staging. And in November 2006 he founded www.StageItForward.com - with over 2,400 members nationwide it is now the largest FREE home staging industry site providing home staging tips, marketing ideas, and success stories on home staging.

Notes from the Interior Design Summit:Greater Client Attraction by Allowing Your Prospects to KNOW You

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 17:53:00 +0000

This post includes notes and inspiration from Heather Dominick's class, "Greater Client Attraction by Allowing Your Prospects to KNOW You"

Thoughts on the big debate: Should a designer ever do a free consultation? Heather says there is a middle ground between FREE consultations and PAID consultations. It's not black or white. There is a way to have a "Get to Know You" session where you and the prospect can see if you are a good fit for each other.

It's all about CONNECTION. The intention of all your marketing materials should be to create a connection with your ideal client. You just need to learn simple ways to connect with your prospects:

Be more personal in your marketing
Ask questions and listen
Stay in touch with regular phone calls and newsletters

Make a mindset shift: from "selling" to "SERVING" !!

Heather Dominick is the EnergyRich® Entrepreneur Success Coach to healers, coaches & entrepreneurs around the world: www.energyrichcoach.com

Notes from the Interior Design Summit:Using Technology to Save Time & Increase Profits

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:19:00 +0000

Here are some important tips from Will Franco's class, "How Designers Can Increase Profits & Save Time with Technology"

75% of interior designers do NOT have a website! Yikes! If nothing else, you must get a blog! No web presence = no business.

A website is a social validation tool. Add testimonials and before & after photos, and you will see results.

You need to connect and stay on top of prospects minds. How can you do this? With an Ezine.

Designers should be on Twitter.

Video emails allow you to connect with your clients and prospects. The more you can do to establish a relationship - allow your prospects to KNOW you, the more likely you will create a customer for life.

For more information about launching a profitable ezine campaign, visit:

www.eNewsletterBlitz.com

Notes from the Interior Design Summit:It's All About Attitude

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:44:00 +0000

Today's post gives you a summary of notes from Debbie Green's class, "It's All About Attitude"

"A good attitude is the foundation for a successful design business."

The more you ACT happy, the more you FEEL happy.

Attitude Improvers:

create and stick to a budget for your business
clean your desk
smile

You must earn a prospect's trust before you can ever expect to get a sale. Even after you earn someone's trust, they may not buy from you. But if you don't start with creating a trusting relationship, there will NEVER be a sale.

How to earn trust:

Never violate your integrity
Always be on time
Share your knowledge
Send a regular ezine

Do what you say you will do. Deliver what you promise. This seems obvious, right? Unfortunately, it's not often done! (If you go beyond this, you really stand out.)

Thanks for an uplifting class, Debbie!

Debbie Green is the founder of Minutes Matter design software. You can find out more about Debbie and her products at www.minutesmatterstudio.com

Inspiration from the Interior Design Summit

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 19:38:00 +0000

For the next few weeks, I am going to post inspiration from the Interior Design Summit. Using just ONE of these ideas will boost your design business. If you implement a whole bunch, you will be so far ahead of the pack!

We had 12 amazing experts sharing powerful, valuable ideas for skyrocketing your design business in this market. What I loved is that there were many commonalities. When you hear the same thing from so many experts, you know it's gold!

The Most Important Success Strategies for Designers:

1. Blog, blog, blog. You MUST have a blog. Even if you don't have a website, please go start a blog. It is free. It is easy. Do it now!

Then make sure you post at least twice a week. Search engines love updated material, so the more you blog, the more potential clients will find you.

2. Marketing is all about connections and relationships. Don't try to promote yourself or sell your products. Just join a conversation online, share valuable information, or help someone out. It's amazing how much better this works to boost your bottom line!

3. (to be continued...)

An Easy Way to Create Relationships (& Get More Sales) on the Internet

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 19:22:00 +0000

You may have heard my voice at my site (www.wealthydecorators.com). I use this audio in many places on the web, and it really helps me get more leads for my business because of the added connection it creates with web browsers. This article shows you how you can gain more leads and sales by using audio.

How to Use Audio on the Internet

The simple fact is - most people now look online when researching which companies to use for anything. Your website and your business email correspondence must reflect your professionalism and personal style. They also need to stand out from the competition. And they need to make a connection with your viewers.

WAIT! Is it actually possible to make a personal connection and establish a relationship with a total stranger on the Internet?

Yes, it is. And one of my favorite techniques is using audio.

A prospect needs to like you and trust you if they are going to give you their business. Consumers are more likely to trust you if they see and hear you. By including your photo and your personal voice greeting, you transform a normally impersonal medium (the web) into a friendlier, more welcoming place.

So how can you use audio to create a stronger connection with your prospects and clients (thus increasing your calls, sales, and resales)?

Here are three fun ideas:

Greet visitors on your home web page

Your audio "welcome" will build rapport with prospects much quicker than typed words alone.

Boost the impact of your testimonials

Written testimonials are good. But audio testimonials are even more powerful. Have your customers record their testimonials - in their own words - and put them on your website with their names and photos.

Create "Audio Proposals"

If you email your sketches, photos, and estimates to a prospect, include an audio explaining everything and describing your design with emotion. This is not only more exciting and modern, but it is that personal connection that will encourage prospects to hire you.

Want to know the easiest way to get audio on your site and emails? I use a program called Audio Generator. For a small monthly fee, it allows me to post my voice messages on as many web pages as I want, and I can send unlimited audio emails. It is so simple - all I do is call a phone number, record my message, and hang up. Immediately, my recording is available to use.

In fact, click here to listen to a message I just created!

It's Time for Some More Gratitude (tweet, tweet)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 00:49:00 +0000

Do you ever have these types of thoughts?

I wish I didn't have so many challenging customers.
Why can't I find higher-end clients?
My customers don't spend that kind of money.
The market is really slow right now.

"What you focus on... expands."

When you instead start feeling gratitude for the business you NOW have, you will start to attract more of those things you are grateful for.

Do you have clients who pay you (even if it seems like a small amount)? Be grateful for them.

Are you able to arrange your schedule to have a little quality time with your loved ones? Feel gratitude for this blessing.

Are you doing what you love for a living? Remember to feel thankful everyday for this opportunity.

"The daily practice of gratitude
is one of the conduits by which
your wealth will come to you."
- Wallace Wattles, author of The Science of Getting Rich

Earlier this year, I created a Gratitude Experiment for my clients and ezine readers. For seven days, participants wrote down 5 things they felt grateful for. After just a few days, we got comments like:

"It's amazing how well it works and how much inspiration there is in this simple exercise."
"This exercise has taught me to be appreciative of all things, regardless of how small they may seem."
"I feel a warm fuzzy and think this is a great way to end the day or begin it!"
"This is the best exercise, I am feeling so happy! Let's not stop."

(You can see all the comments here)

***Well, after seeing how powerful Twitter is for bringing conscious, happy, helpful people together, I decided I should bring this Gratitude Experiment to my tweeps. If you want to see some miracles occur in your life, join in. Just post what you are grateful for at least once a day, using the hash #gratX.

Looking forward to sharing in your happiness, appreciation, and gratitude.

I'm grateful for you!

Multiple Streams of Design Income

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:27:00 +0000

Let me give you a little-known secret for protecting your income - no matter what the economic climate: multiple streams of income.

Let's face it. If you have income coming in from various sources, you are less likely to suffer when one or two of them is slow.

As designers, most of us have ONE source of income: working with clients. Yes, we do many things for them and sell various products, but THEY are our only way to make money. Without clients who are willing to hire and pay us, we have no business.

But it doesn't have to be that way!

Designers are finally learning that they can make money from other sources. And I do NOT mean getting another job working for someone else or starting a completely new business. All of your streams of income can be design related.

This is one thing that sets apart the designers who are thriving (and truly confusedabout why everyone is whining) and those who are buying into the overwhelming complaining about how "bad" the economy is.

One of my favorite things to do when I coach designers is look at their current income stream (working one-on-one with clients), and then talk about what they really love about it. Then I help them figure out other outlets for creating income, taking into account their passions and talents. This not only helps guarantee more money for them (even in "tough" times), but they start enjoying what they are doing more than ever. For the purpose of this article, I'll share 3 examples of additional streams of income for your interior design business.

1. Writing: Put your expertise down on paper. You don't have to be a five-star writer to profit from writing. There are many possibilities for income when you write about design. Newspapers and magazines are often looking for a steady columnist. If you are ambitious, publish your own book! The quickest way to make money this way is to create an e-book and sell it on line.

2. Teaching: Even when homeowners aren't spending as much on decorating, they still want to know how to make their homes beautiful. Since you know a lot of tricks of the trade, why don't you share some of them? You can teach live classes at a local college or in your showroom. Or you can make it even easier, and use my favorite way to teach - as a teleseminar.

3. Membership Programs: Large stores have been profiting from this stream of income for many years, and it's time for you to join the bandwagon. What can you offer your clients and prospects as a wonderful convenience? Customers pay you monthly or yearly to receive certain benefits, like upholstery cleaning when needed, service calls on motorized window treatments, carpet freshening, pillow fluffing, etc.

For designers, sources of income are really unlimited. I'll keep sharing more ideas in upcoming ezines. But please get started. Add an additional stream of income now!

Seriously folks. You can sit around complaining (and watch what you are focusing on become a reality in your life), or you can join me and create more streams of income. What is your choice?

Designers: How to Do a Teleseminar

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 18:28:00 +0000

How To Do a Teleseminar to Build Your Design Business, Gain Expert Status, and Make Money

You know that giving classes and seminars is a great marketing strategy, but you want the easiest way to do it. Teleseminars are a fabulous way to gain expert status and make money - without leaving your house (I often do them in my PJ's!).

And your seminar attendees can also listen in from their homes - which means you're more likely to get a big crowd.

In this information-packed, 90-minute class, you will learn:

How to choose a topic for your class
How to get sign-ups
Whether to charge or use your seminar to get leads
How to get a FREE bridge line for your call
How to use your seminar to build your design business
What are the best days to hold a teleseminar
How to record your teleseminar without purchasing any equipment

More info here

An important message for designers re: the economy

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:03:00 +0000

Can you personally affect this economy in a positive way? Absolutely! Don't think for a moment that one person can't make a big difference. And it doesn't take a lot of hard work or time.

I have been studying what makes some designers successful - wildly successful, despite what the outside world / media / friends are saying about the economy. Many of them have doubled or tripled profits this year. They are enjoying the dream businesses that they've worked for, and feeling fulfilled and happy.

And the best part about being successful is that you actually make more people successful - just by being successful!

What do I mean?

Think about it. Designers and decorators who are complaining about the economy, talking about how they don't have enough business, and reacting to their worries and concerns are affecting the economy in a negative way. Negative talk leads to more people worrying and reacting - and spending less! Which, of course, leads to more worry, more complaining, and LESS spending. A vicious cycle.

The opposite is also true. Designers who have made the decision to think positively and focus on what is good about their businesses (okay, I know I'm sounding a bit Pollyanna here, but just go with me), are noticing that they are NOT being affected by the so-called slow economy. They are investing more time and energy into improving their businesses in creative ways, which leads to more publicity and more clients, leading to more positive energy, more profits, more improving, etc.

I have designer clients who have worked with me over the past year on improving their businesses - starting with their mindsets - who say to me," I don't get what everyone is saying. My business is doing better than ever."

Imagine if we could recruit more designers to start thinking more positively? At some point we would reach what is called "The Tipping Point."

Then:
- more people would feel positive and optimistic,
- people would relax and release their worries,
- more money would be spent,
- the economy would improve!

Can you imagine? I know I want to be a part of that! Join me, won't you?

If you want to have more success, model the designers who are having wild success right now. The most important thing to do first is focus on the positive. What are you most grateful for? Now, I am NOT saying to bury your head in the sand. No, you should not ignore what is going on in the world. You NEED to keep current with business and design trends. Which leads me to the second thing you must do...

The second thing you must do is learn how to run your business in the most effective way to create prosperity in current times. Creating success in business is a learned skill. Learn a few techniques, put them into action, and you WILL see improvement.

If you know anyone who needs a boost -in their mindset or in their pocketbook, please let them know about the upcoming Interior Design Summit. This Summit is designed to help designers in both areas - attitude and profits! The more designers who attend, the quicker we will see an upswing in the economy.

You can make a difference. Let's do it together!
Join me next week, and invite everyone you know:
http://www.InteriorDesignSummit.com

To your easy success,
Nika

#24 realtor out of 1.3 millions shares her secrets

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 02:23:00 +0000

I just finished listening to a recorded interview with Edie Marks - the #24 realtor in the country. She has sold over $800 million in real estate. She shared her secrets to networking and creating relationships with the ultra-wealthy.

Edie is one of the 14 experts sharing valuable techniques and strategies for thriving during tougher times - at the Interior Design Summit, October 28 - 30.

This is a first-of-its-kind Tele-Summit for the home design industry. I am giving a class - talking about how I tripled my design business using email newsletters, and showing you how you can do it, too.

If you want timely, valuable, effective strategies for creating a more successful desgin business, please join us!

http://www.interiordesignsummit.com/

To your success!

Prosperity Plan Provides Hope To Interior Design Industry During Economic Crisis

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 23:19:00 +0000

Groundbreaking Interior Design Summit unveils progressive marketing strategies and inspiration so interior design firms thrive during the Recession. 13 top marketing gurus, renowned business coaches, best-selling authors and media-savvy interior designers share success secrets in inaugural tele-summit October 28, 29 & 30, 2008. Find out why third largest design firm CEO thinks it is a perfect time to start an interior design business.

Design Success University and Wealthy Decorators co-host content-packed tele-summit event that interior designers attend from the comfort of their homes, offices or cell phones. No travel required to learn cutting-edge marketing strategies to grow and manage a successful design firm in spite of the economy. It's not business as usual.

October 28, 29 & 30, 2008
1:00 pm - 7:00 pm Eastern
(12:00 pm - 6:00 pm Central / 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Mountain / 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Pacific)

Top speakers teach powerful, innovative, proven strategies:

"How to Get Free Publicity" with Kathy Peterson, national design expert, host of Lifetime TV's The Balancing Act and best-selling design author
"Book Your Design Practice Solid" with best-selling author & speaker Michael Port
"Go Global with Social Networking" with David Bassett-Parkins, founder and CEO of Ava Living - social networking site for interior designers and interior design enthusiasts
"Identify Your Passion and Become a Design Celebrity" with Keith Granet, top consultant to architects and interior designers
"Affluent Client Psychology - What You Need To Know" with nationally known "Design Matchmaker" Karen Fisher of Designer Previews & author of six books
"Building a Great Team" with Beth Silfer, CEO of Slifer Designs, third largest design firms in the United States
"Attracting Dream Clients Effortlessly" with Fabienne Frederickson, millionaire creator of the Client Attraction System
"Build Powerful Relationships & Watch Your Business Grow" with Edie Marks, #27 Realtor in the US with over $800 million of residential real estate sales
"Branding for the 21st Century" with Liz Pabon, CEO and Branding Maven of Liz P. Communications
"Boost Your Design Business with an Email Newsletter" with Nika Stewart, Designers' Success Coach
"Connecting the Dots" with Gail Doby, ASID, Author, speaker and Chief Vision Officer of Design Success University
"Five Laws of Stratospheric Success" with Bob Burg, Author of The Go Giver and Endless Referrals and International Speaker
"Simple Profitable Systems for Designers" with Debbie Green, Systems Expert, national speaker, & creator of Minutes Matter Solutions, Inc.

Hear 13 world-class speakers in the first Interior Design Summit with no travel required. Early-bird tuition before October 14th is $249.99. After October 14th, tuition is $299.00 for the three-day event. Designers who register for the tele-summit also receive downloadable audio recordings after the event and several free bonuses.

For more summit details visit:
www.InteriorDesignSummit.com

The Interior Design Summit is here!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 01:36:00 +0000

Could you be the next celebrity designer?

Well, even if you are not looking to become a "celebrity," I'm sure you'd love to have more affluent clients beating down your door wanting to hire you.

My colleague, Gail Doby of Design Success University has put together an amazing line-up of best-selling authors, renowned business coaches, and wildly successful designers to reveal how you, too, can be running a thriving design business.

(in a hurry? click here: http://www.interiordesignsummit.com/)

Imagine if Beth Slifer, CEO of one of the largest interior design firms in the country, showed you how to grow your firm, find great employees, manage your business, and keep your sanity?

Or if Karen Fisher of Designer Previews - who works with the country's most affluent homeowners - exposed the secrets about what the wealthiest homeowners are REALLY looking for in an interior designer?

Or if best-selling author Bob Burg revealed the simple, natural way to get more referrals and clients - without any struggle?

Or if Kathy Peterson, host of Lifetime TV's The Balancing Act, gave you easy ways to get free publicity and loads of national visibility - fast?

Attending the Interior Design Summit may be the best thing you could do for your success. Oh - and the best part is... you don't have to go anywhere! That's right - no travel expenses. No hotel rooms to book. Just relax in the comfort of your own office or home, and listen on the phone. You can even invite your whole office to join in for one low price!

I can go on and on about how innovative this Summit is, and how powerful it will be for your design business, but you can get all the details here: http://www.interiordesignsummit.com/

I hope to "see" you there!

Money-tudes

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 01:13:00 +0000

Money Talk and The Business of Home Fashions Design

New Designer Success Teleclass:
Thursday, September 4, 8:00 PM Eastern

Are your attitudes around money making you rich...
or keeping you stuck?

You've learned a little about the law of attraction. You know that your thoughts create your reality. You want to manifest your dream business. But you need more specifics on how to create your ideal life.

SPEAK the New Language of Wild Success!
Register for Money-tudes

In this new class, you will:

See how the power of your thoughts and your beliefs about money affect your business bottom line
Discover the ROOT of your wrong money thinking (and learn how to break free once and for all!)
Create a new “money awareness” that will propel your life and boost your business, both immediately and in the future

With your new thinking, your design business will make money for you. You will gain the clients who WANT to pay you for your offerings. You will develop new strategies to grow financially, and embrace new thoughts that will serve to improve your life in every area.

Say goodbye to the old mentality and embrace a new, exciting, and abounding way of thinking and believing.

This class is an INVESTMENT in yourself. A must if you want to make more money!
click to register now for $29

Chocolate Flowers

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 20:14:00 +0000

Going Beyond Customer Service

While taking a break from an intense day of antiquing, my friends and I ducked into a quaint coffee shop to rest our weary bones. We each decided to order chai lattes - a black spiced tea with a coat of foam on top. The barista asked if we would like cinnamon and chocolate in the tea and, before I could raise an objection (chocolate in tea?), one of my friends responded affirmatively for all of us.

A few moments later the lattes were ready and we were summoned to the counter to pick up our fancy drinks. As I approached the counter, I was delighted to see that on top of the white foam, the barista had drawn an outline of a beautiful flower in chocolate syrup. Imagine that! It was the first time I ever felt that five dollars was actually a bargain for a cup of tea!

That simple flower was something the three of us talked about while we drank our tea, after we left the coffee house, while we shopped, and then several times over the next few weeks. It cost the store practically nothing and took very little time, but it was a charming surprise. For such a small effort, those chocolate flowers made a great impact.

That experience got me thinking. What is my chocolate flower? What is it that I can give to my clients that is unexpected, that is more than I promise, that is a pleasant surprise?

After thinking about it for quite some time, I came upon the realization that there is not one perfect answer. Each of my clients may require a different chocolate flower. And each designer may have their own unique chocolate flowers. But to qualify as a chocolate flower, a product or service must have these two qualities:

- It must be something the customer will like
and
- It must be unexpected - more than promised

I don't know where I first heard it said, but I always like to follow the rule:
"Under-promise and Over-deliver"

Your chocolate flower is part of the over-delivering.

As consumers and designers, we have the opportunity to interact with numerous businesses daily. Doesn't it feel great when companies provide exceptional service - going above and beyond what was expected? (Order several yards of fabric and the mill sends a memo sample for our client file; Buy new tires and the car comes back washed.)

Let's talk about some ways to serve chocolate flowers:

At the completion of a design project, give your client a board with samples of all their paints, fabrics, and trims attached, so that they can bring it with them while shopping for coordinating items.

If you are designing a baby's room, make a diaper bag out of leftover fabric scraps.

While you are up on the 16-foot ladder installing a window treatment, dust the chandelier, clean the window, or replace a light bulb.

The Benefits of Chocolate

For about two cents and thirty seconds of time, that coffee shop received the benefit of some powerful word-of-mouth marketing with much more impact than any advertising could have accomplished. I told at least thirty people about the special service I received, and those people told others. I even heard that some friends were discussing it when I wasn't around. Now I'm writing about it!

Can you imagine such publicity? Would that kind of chatter impact your business in a positive way? Could community gossip about your fabulous, unbelievable service add to your bottom line?

Of course, the answers to these questions are yes! As designers and business owners, it is up to us to create our own chocolate flowers - to find ways to go beyond what is expected of us. It can be the difference between a customer who is satisfied and one who is overwhelmed by the exemplary service and professionalism of her designer. Chocolate flowers are one of the most effective marketing tools at our disposal, and the best part about it is that it costs practically nothing to provide.

Increase your Profits with Add-On Sales

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 19:50:00 +0000

Upselling can often double your profits. And it doesn't take much effort. Once you've created a relationship with a prospect, you simply need to show them other things that will add to the design you have provided.

Upselling is simply offering something else to your client - in addition to what they have already chosen to purchase - that would make their design even better.

REMEMBER: With add-on sales, what you are ultimately offering your clients is:
added convenience increased safety complete personalized service

Here are 10 ideas for add-on sales. Some may seem obvious (but are you offering them at every appointment??), and others may not. You might want to print out this list and keep it in your briefcase near the contracts, so that you remember to recommend something else before you write up the final agreement.

1. Custom Pillows
I remember when it seemed standard to offer pillows to match the draperies. Most designs are not so "matchy matchy" now, but custom pillows can almost always add to the look of a room. The options are limitless - you can create spectacular designs (and your profits are often high!).
2. Passimenterie
Yes, just a fancy word for trimmings. Bedding, pillows, window treatments, etc. always look more unique with the addition of beautiful tassels, fringe, and trim.
3. Coordinating Accessories
What will complete the room you are designing? A mirror? Artwork? Candles? Your clients will appreciate the convenience of getting the whole finished look.
4. Lighting
You don't have to be a lighting expert to recommend lighting. Connect with a local lighting specialist and create a joint venture.
5. Florals
Work with a talented florist, or provide elegant silk florals to add the finishing touch to a room.
6. Another Room
"While you're waiting for the samples to arrive, do you want to get started on your next project?"
7. Hardware
Changing the hardware on cabinets or furniture can literally transform the look of a room.
8. Motorization
If you are designing window treatments, offer the motorization upgrade for increased safety and convenience.
9. Area Rugs
Many homeowners have a hard time choosing rugs, and they will appreciate you taking away their struggle.
10. Fabric Accessories
Use the fabric from your client's upholstery or window treatment, or choose a coordinating pattern, and you can create anything. I've done chandelier cord sleeves, placemats, room dividers, ottomans, table runners, and even a flower vase cover. How about trunks, toilet seat covers, sink skirts, towels, napkin rings, drapery tiebacks, ... the ideas are endless!

While you are at the appointment establishing a relationship, and the client is ready to purchase, you know she already likes and trusts you. So why not suggest the perfect finishing touch to go with her _____? You'll be creating a better design, and putting more in your pocket.

Got some inspiring add-on tips of your own? Click to share them here.

My Biggest Time Management Secret

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:40:00 +0000

I struggle with getting everything done, just like everyone else. All my life I've tried to cram too much into each day. Then I had a baby, and - well, those of you who have kids know that's like adding 3 more full-times jobs to your schedule.

So when people ask me how I get so much done, I try to think about what I'm doing that many others aren't.

One thing I've learned to do is delegate. I'm not perfect at this - I'm still learning to give things away. But each week that goes by, I let a little more go. If a task doesn't require me personally to get it done, it should be done by someone else.

But delegating isn't my biggest secret. Of course, that really isn't even a secret. Most of us know that we should delegate more. We just have to start doing it.

My best secret for getting more done is a quote from marketing guru, Dan Kennedy:
"Good enough is good enough"

This phrase usually horrifies perfectionists (which I know most of you are). But being absolutely perfect about everything is also something we need to let go.

Just think about this weekly newsletter. When I first started doing newsletters, I spent days putting each one together. I'd take a few hours to write an article. Then I'd edit it, re-write it, and edit it again. Then I would send it to a few friends to get their opinion. "Make sure you find any typos and grammar mistakes," I'd say. After correcting it a few more times, I had to send it to myself to proof it yet again. It was a miracle that I got even one newsletter out each month.

I did the same with all my promotional materials - which meant I never had anything done! I was afraid to put up a website or send out flyers because they weren't perfect yet. What if there was a mistake? What if some people didn't like it? What a waste of my time!

As you probably see now - I am not so worried about being perfect. There are often mistakes in my articles, and my grammar isn't perfect. I just try to write from my heart, and then I SEND IT OUT.

And I get so much more done! Can you do the same? While there are certainly things that should still require your perfectionist attitude, there are many things that do not. For these tasks, you must remember:

Good enough is good enough.

Wow - I wrote this article in less than an hour.
I'd invite you to find all my goofs, but that would be a waste of your time.
Go do something constructive!

My Big Birthday Bash in the new house

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 22 May 2008 21:41:00 +0000

We had our first party in the new house, and although we aren't decorated or furnished, it was a blast to have friends and family over. Now the house really feels like a home. It's amazing how the energy of a home changes when friends come to visit.

Here are some photos from the weekend:

Me and Hubby Rob

My friend - and genius webmaster, Michael

Best friend Karen - revealing that her gift to me

is a playmate for Ellie (she's pregnant - yippee!)

Everyone's reaction to Karen's news

Rob performing a game show skit in my honor

Karen and Kelly - my two preggie friends

Getting Creative in a Challenging Economy

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 14 May 2008 14:10:00 +0000

A special report for Interior Designers, Decorators, and other Home Fashion Specialists

Are you feeling like your clients and prospects are getting more wary about spending money? Are they taking longer to make decisions? Are you struggling to convince homeowners to purchase from you?

If not, great! You are one of the lucky few. Although "official" statistics do not yet show that consumer spending has dropped, many designers have seen a slow-down in spending on home furnishings.

So what do we do? Many small business owners stick their heads in the sand and ignore it, hoping that what they've done in the past will start working again... soon. But studies show that if you keep doing the same type of marketing and selling while the economy changes around you, you very well could be out of business before things pick up. If you want to be a design professional who thrives despite the challenging economy, there are many proven methods you can use.

Here are a few ideas:

Spend more time and energy on short-term marketing
Long-term strategies, like branding and website optimization, are extremely important for creating a strong, profitable business, so you can't give that up. BUT - in a slower economy, you need to apply strategies that create immediate revenue. Hold a promotion, offer a limited-time special, try pay-per-click advertising.
Highlight your less expensive products
Okay, don't get me wrong. I'm not saying to sell cheap things, or to sacrifice your high-end image. But there are homeowners who want to spend right now - if they can get something less expensive. If you can offer a fabric line, for example, with lower cost fabrics that are still of a quality you are proud to sell, everyone wins.
Go virtual
Is there a way you can offer any of your services online or over the phone? Businesses that are working this way are seeing overhead costs go WAY down, and profits go way UP.
Increase online product sales
Most designers have a hard time imagining selling online. We are artists, for goodness sake! And our services are personal and customized. How can we sell over the Internet? Well - with rising gas prices, homeowners are shopping online more than ever. These homeowners, who once only wanted customized service (and who will want this again in the next few years), will more likely purchase something now because it is quick, easy, and inexpensive. Make sure you have products for this market.
Ramp up your client retention
It is always harder and more expensive to acquire a new client than it is to get business from a past one. But during a slow economy, the cost of acquiring new customers is even higher. Remember to exceed your existing clients' expectations, and keep in touch with past customers through your email newsletter and by calling them on the phone.

When the market seems tough, you just need to be smarter with your marketing. Fortunately, you now have some effective tactics to use so that you can not only get through the tough times, but actually flourish!

Leverage your business using the Internet

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 13 May 2008 23:52:00 +0000

And make a lot more money, while working less

My next program designed to help you skyrocket your income - while working LESS hours - will be starting in June. It is an intensive course that includes lots of one-on-one time. I am going to show you specifically how to use the Internet to leverage your business - and create extra money every month. (This program requires a substantial investment, and if you think it is for you, email my assistant Scott for more information)