The Best Business Advice Designers Have Ever Received

Original article posted at Architectural Digest by Allie Weiss.

Navigating the business of design isn’t always easy. When faced with a difficult client, an economic downturn, the fallout from an on-the-job mistake, or any other tough situation that might rear its head, designers turn to the wise words of their trusted advisers for guidance. But the following lessons come in handy whether there is a pressing challenge to overcome or not—they are ever-valuable anecdotes that may inspire small business owners at any stage in their entrepreneurial journey. Read to hear the pieces of advice that 12 designers always have in mind.

Mark Cunningham:

“My former boss, Ralph Lauren, never compromised on his vision, and his unyielding commitment to brand was instilled in every employee at the company. While that type of dedication is difficult to maintain in most companies (and in life), it certainly is at the forefront of my mind running my own company.”

Elaine Griffin:

“‘Always make their getting their stuff dependent upon you first getting paid.’ Why clients just hate paying that last design bill in a project is beyond me, but better advice than Linda Jeffrey's I have still never gotten.”

Jan Showers:

“The clients we choose to work with are the lifeblood of our businesses as designers. I was once told that listening is the most important thing you can do in an interview [with a potential client]. If you take the time, they will tell you what you need to know about whether to hire them or not. And don’t be afraid to ask questions. Remember, not only are you being interviewed—you are interviewing as well!”

Jean Liu:

“I was once told to have six months’ worth of savings set aside in case we came upon an interior design dry spell. Our interior design business is so affected by what’s going on in the stock market and economy, we need to have the extra cash saved to withstand a downturn. To be able to have enough to cover six months’ worth of rent, salary, overhead, and expenses has enabled us to weather most storms thus far.”

Lauren Lowe:

“When I decided to start Lauren Elaine Interiors, the best advice I received was to invest in the best photography you can afford. I interviewed several photographers to shoot my first project and chose to go with the more expensive photographer I met with. The investment felt like a lot at the time, but the images I received far exceeded my expectations and I know I can credit them to receiving new clients.”