After working with over 100 interior design businesses across the US and Canada, I’ve seen it all—luxurious and streamlined client experiences, and others that quietly sabotage a sale.

One practice I’m asked about often is whether designers should personally present the scope, contract, and design fee to potential clients. Is it helpful? Or does it add unnecessary steps?

This question sparked a real debate, so I asked my audience of interior designers to weigh in. In this post, I’m sharing what they said, what’s actually working (and what isn’t), and my own take on exactly when this tactic is smart—and when it backfires.

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I talk to a lot of designers who say, "UGH, I am terrible at marketing. I just HATE talking about myself."

let's all just pause for a minute.

pause....

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MARKETING IS NOT ABOUT YOU.

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Dear Dakota, 

How do you deal with difficult clients and know when it's worth it to keep going or get rid of them when things feel really tough?

Join The DTS Files for my advice and insights.

This week, we asked interiors photographer Linda Pordon to share three things photographers wish designers knew, and what to consider when investing in interior photography for your design portfolio.

Linda is a recognized interiors photographer based out of the New York/New Jersey area. Her work has been published in outlets including Better Homes and Gardens, Domino, Elle Decor, and the NY Times. 

Why is Client Onboarding so Important for Interior Designers?

In my seven+ years of working with interior designers to help them price their services and streamline their business processes, I have repeatedly seen ineffective client onboarding (or lack thereof) cause issues, mismatched expectations, lack of trust, and frustration throughout an entire project. 

Client onboarding is a crucial step in working with clients that applies to all business owners - and one that is severely overlooked and underdeveloped, leaving much to be desired. When done right, it has so many benefits: …

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If it takes you weeks to send a detailed scope of work, design fee, and contract to a potential client, your number one goal should be to cut that time way down. Your goal should be ONE to TWO days. YUP!

Seven Reasons Why You Must Get Contracts to New Clients Quickly:

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Dear Dakota,

I’m needing some major help lately.

My weeks are completely bogged down with constant repetitive phone calls and emails regarding our process.

This has never happened to me before, and in the last several months, it is all I am dealing with. 

HELP!

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