EP 1 | 3 Core Truths about Running a Design Business

“You don’t have to get it right. You just have to get it going.” – Mike Litman   So first let’s talk about why I want to go from blogging → podcasting. Over the past few years I have been sharing my content through the Designer’s Oasis website (and fun little fact - there are over 78 blog posts you can still find there!). Recently I decided to switch over to providing content via podcasting because I’m more of a podcast listener myself. I figured if my audience is kinda like me, you like to learn on the go as well…… so podcasting just makes sense!   In this FIRST episode I share:   A little about me  Share some of the early struggles I experienced  But also how I was able to overcome them and turn my little baby designer business into one that thrived and supported me and my family  3 core truths I believe can help you grow in business and accomplish your biggest dreams     Here’s a Glance at this Episode:   [1:40] Why podcasting? I share how if you’re anything like me, you listen on the go, fitting in during kids’ practices/lessons/pickups or while doing laundry, cleaning the house or a million other things. You’re a busy guy or gal!   [3:20] A little background on me. I’m just a regular old girl! I share my background while living in Austin. I share how I was running out of time to decide what I wanted to major in. Then I learned that there was an “Intro to Interior Design'' summer course at my local community college. I instantly knew that would be my path. I share my early life with my “weekend designer” single mom and how we moved alot - I mean - a lot 18x’s in 18 years.   [6:00} I share about my internship with a high - end designer in Austin. We even did a $1M Boat Dock and how I then found my way to Denver working for OZ Architecture. It was a dream. Great team, Energy, buzz, Imagine scenes from The Intern - set designed by Nancy Myers.   [7:20] I had my first baby and returned to work - severely sleep deprived! - and people started to notice. I thought I was going to get fired.  At this point my husband suggested maybe I should go to work for myself - I didn’t see that potential in myself. But he did.  [8:30] I did it! I went to work for myself. I share what I didn’t have going for me and then what I DID have going for me! Where did I start? What problems did I encounter? How and why did it “click”?   [10:00] My business was growing but I was getting burnt out! The running a business part of the design business along with the client work was exhausting. So I had to figure out what to do to “fix” this. I needed to charge more and I knew I provided great service.    [12:15}  I will tell you what I did (not all at once) but I will share the top 3 things that I did to transform my business. Spoiler: I share much of what I learned inside my Designer’s Oasis Membership.   [17:42] This is what I want you to know. These are 3 very simple truths I will stand behind until the day that I die. If you can get behind these ideas too, the sky's the limit for you.    [18:00] Core Truth #1 - You don’t need to have it all figured out. You will never have all your ducks in a row, so you just need to get going!   [20:15] Core Truth #2 : There is No one-size fits all for running your design business. Design the business that works within what YOU want. That may be full-home design, specific room design, designer for a day, or agency work - it’s up to you!   [22:00] Core Truth #3 - Everyone (including you) has a unique set of skills, background, expertise that adds a unique twist to your design POV. It's up to you to uncover this and tell that story. Listen in as I share examples of members inside the Designer’s Oasis Membership and their unique backgrounds. What is your story? [24:48] Recap of the core truths You don’t need to have it all figured out to get started  There is no one-size fits all approach to running your business  Your story matters and helps shape your POV as a designer.    I hope you enjoyed this inaugural podcast episode. I can’t wait to bring you more, and to bring on guests so we can learn from them too.  Links Mentioned in this Episode:   Designer’s Oasis  @designersoasis Luanne Nigara Podcast Episode  Book: Worth Every Penny: Build a Business That Thrills Your Customers and Still Charge What You're Worth    Hey designer! Thanks for listening. When you try something using the links we provide, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you. We only provide suggestions for products we actually use and recommend. Your support helps keep the podcast going. Thank you!