Like with any career, you want to have a game plan for entering the interior design industry. While you certainly don’t need to have all the answers immediately, it’s a good idea to have a sense of what works and what won’t get your foot in the door. 

So here are 3 helpful career starting interior design tips. 

Specialize 

You want to specialize in a niche area to set yourself apart and show that you’re an expert in a specific field. This approach can mean the difference between standing out in a crowded market where clients are looking for designers who understand their needs and being rejected repeatedly. 

Start by researching different niche areas within interior design and choose one that really resonates with you; perhaps you’re really into TV console design, or maybe you’ve always been drawn to kitchen decor. 

Then, get deep into your chosen niche, studying trends, materials, and design principles. The goal is to develop a unique style within your niche so that you’re apart from the competition.

For example, if you’re passionate about sustainable design, a good idea is to focus on using eco-friendly materials and implementing energy-efficient solutions in your projects and showcasing your work by featuring projects where you’ve incorporated recycled materials and optimized natural light to minimize energy consumption.

Cultivate a Strong Online Presence

Perhaps now more than ever, having a strong online presence is essential for reaching a wider audience and building credibility. You want to make sure you’re visible to potential clients and industry professionals.

Create professional profiles on social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and LinkedIn. Then, regularly update your profiles with high-quality images of your work and engage with your audience by responding to comments and sharing insights.

For example, share before-and-after photos of your design projects on Instagram to showcase your skills and design process, create Pinterest boards featuring your favorite design trends to inspire your audience, and use LinkedIn to connect with potential clients and collaborate with other professionals in the industry.

Seek Mentorship and Apprenticeships

You really want to seek mentorship and apprenticeships to learn from experienced professionals and build your network. Having a mentor can provide valuable guidance and support as you navigate the early stages of your career.

Research and reach out to experienced interior designers who are willing to mentor you or offer apprenticeship opportunities. Attend industry events and networking sessions to connect with potential mentors.

For example, why not approach a successful interior designer whose work you admire and ask if they’d be open to meeting for coffee or a virtual chat? Offer to assist with their projects and get feedback on your own design projects for guidance on how to advance your career in interior design.

A career in interior design can certainly be a fulfilling one. Try out these tips so that you have a great start.