Interior designers are busy people. With so much going on—from meeting clients to picking fabrics— it can be easy to lose track of the many activities on the to-do list. But it can be easier! Here are our 7 tips for interior designers to stay organized.
1. Create a Schedule
Creating a schedule gives interior designers a clear visual of what’s ahead. Whether you work from home or in a small office, staying on schedule is key to ensuring you meet all of your clients’ needs, and your business’ administrative demands.
While useful for client meetings, consultations, and other appointments, allotting time in a schedule for those menial tasks is important too. Set aside specific parts of the day for recording purchase orders, responding to email, and the other administrative tasks that need to be done to keep the business running.
2. Set Deadlines
Hand-in-hand with scheduling is establishing deadlines.An unexpected task is less of a surprise when a deadline is set ahead of time, outlining when it should be finished. When it’s already noted, that end date in the calendar won’t be as big of a shock or as overwhelming.
Effective time management will allow designers to get everything done on time and in balance alongside the bigger tasks.
3. Communicate
Clear and constant communication is key to success. It keeps clients happy, employees clear about their tasks, and relationships strongin every business interaction.
While verbal communication is the first thought in most people’s minds, interior designers shouldn’t forget about well-written emails and clear correspondence.
Writing in a professional matter is important for continued success and shows you carry on good business.Poorly written messages can result in miscommunication concerning budgeting,project timing, and duplicate responses. Keep the lines clear and stay on track using polished messages andregular contact with clients and suppliers.
4. Delegate
Staff and time are limited in small firms, so you want to make the most of your resources Hand out tasks that play to employees’ strengths to ensure the best work is done in the most efficient time. If one employee is better at client communication, while another excels at procurement, assign tasks accordingly.
5. Create a Workspace
Whether it’s a home office or a small building space, having an organized and clutter-free workspace increases focus and concentration.
Working from home makes it a challenge to separate work and life with no clear boundary of where that workspace is. Clear a specific part of your house, whether it’s an enlarged desk space or a completely separate room, todistinctly define where the office ends.
Regardless of location, inspiration and productivity happen when a space is cleared and reflective of your work needs.
6. Use Software or Apps
Implementing software or apps in your daily routine is one of the easiest ways to stay organized.You can track meetings, emails, and client calls to make sure you don’t fall behind or haven’t missed anything.Apps help should you find yourself on the run without a pen or paper, or toconfirm a matter on the go. Tasks can be streamlined into one easy location.
Track projects end-to-end with software or apps to ensure you’re on track no matter where you are.The right programs have all the necessary tools in one convenient packageto keep you up to date. From scheduling to billing, software and apps ease a designer’s daily routine.
7. Tackle Your Accounting Practices
All of the above are great organizational tools to keep your business running, but poor accounting management won’t keep it running for long. Late invoicing could leave clients skeptical of when to pay you; not keeping track of expenses and purchase orders will leave you in a tight spot for cash flow. Financial responsibilities are essential for staying in business, so be sure to regularly follow up with invoices, purchase orders, and expenses to reduce stress and ensure timely payment. Tackle your accounting and your business will run smoother.
