5 Career Growth Hacks For New Interiors Designers
If you’re a newbie interior designer, you’ve got a lot to look forward to. According to Research and Markets surveys, a CAGR growth of 7.8% is projected for the global interior design services market in 2020-2027. It suggests growth from $150.7 billion in 2020 to $255.4 billion by 2027.
That sounds whopping, right? So are you ready to kickstart your career and skyrocket your success? But there’s a lot of competition out there, so you’ve got to stay ahead of the game. As a woman, you may have to hustle harder to break the glass ceiling.
Well, we’ve got some valuable career growth hacks to help you start as an interior designer. So, let’s share the best ones to build that dream career!
Get Certified
A college degree in interior design prepares you to join the landscape. But getting a certification increases your earning potential and gives you a competitive edge. You can get one from a reputed institution.
Passing the exam requires extensive knowledge of design theory and building codes. So it gives you better opportunities, whether you work with a design company or take up independent projects for high-end clients.
Build a killer portfolio
A killer portfolio is the lifeblood of an interior designer’s career. It showcases your best work and highlights your unique style, even as a beginner. You can include your college projects as you’ll be short of professional experience at this stage.
Next, you’ve got to create profiles on social media platforms to build credibility as a beginner in the industry. The more you have to show, the better your chances of landing a dream job.
Look for opportunities at the right places
This one is a no-brainer, newbie! It’s easy to get disheartened when you don’t get the right opportunities as a beginner. Well, be ready for a challenging phase because the competition in the job market is stiff. But worry not, looking at the right places gives you better chances! A specialist job site is a good one to start.
Also, know your worth before dipping your toes into the landscape. You can check this interior designer salary calculator to get a dollar figure for your starting salary. This way, you’ll be in a better place to negotiate your first compensation.
Network like a boss
Being a newbie means you won’t know anyone in the industry. But don’t let it stall your growth as an interior design professional. Build a networking strategy from the outset. Join professional organizations, attend industry events, and connect with designers, contractors, and architects in your area.
You can grow your network by approaching stalwarts on LinkedIn. Reach out to established designers for advice or mentorship. Many professionals are happy to share their knowledge and help beginners grow.
Keep learning and growing
That’s something everyone knows, right? Interior design is an evolving field, so you’ve got to stay updated with the latest trends and techniques. Even if you’re fresh from design school, don’t forget to ramp up your skills and knowledge.
Read top industry publications, attend workshops and seminars, and take online courses to expand your skills and knowledge. Seek opportunities to work on a range of projects, from commercial to residential, retail, and hospitality.
Hacking your career as an interior designer requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn and grow. Don’t expect shortcuts, and be ready to give your best. Good luck, you can make it!
