When Carol and I sat down for lunch, I was curious because she said she'd been through 3 interior designers, getting her last project done.
Usually, that would indicate an issue with the client, but I knew Carol through one of my networks and that didn't seem to be the case.
She'd agreed to tell me what had happened because she knew that I coached and consulted with designers.
Designer number one came recommended by a contractor, unfortunately when she met with Carol she was abrupt and disorganized.
When Carol checked a couple of additional references, she confirmed her discomfort. Designer one down.
Moving on she was referred by a friend to another designer. This seemed to be a better fit and Carol looked forward to the proposal.
Crickets. That's right, designer number two just evaporated, no call, no email, no follow up at all and Carol was ready to go.
Frustrated but determined, Carol found designer number three. All went well until the close of the project when Carol found herself having to chase the designer for final invoice.
Yes, you read that correctly, the client was chasing the designer to give them money. WHAT???
Building relationships and following up consistently and persistently are the foundation of a great business, no selling necessary.
In fact, when you build the right kind of relationships and stay in touch, you'll find your design pipeline forever filled with perfect projects because you're top of mind.
I call the formula C.R.E.A.T.E. and I'll be presenting it step by step at Universal Furniture in High Point, NC on April 5 at 3pm.
You'll learn how to build rock solid relationships with clients, influencers, referral rock stars, suppliers, craftsman, and more all designed to take your business to the top.
It's not hard, yet it's missed by so many designers.
You get so busy looking for your next best client, you're blind to the one that's right in front of you.
And, well, there is that ever present self-sabotage that we all wrestle with. This formula kicks that to curb once and for all.
Will you join us?
Mega Hugs,
Melissa
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