N E T W O R K I N G

Have you ever wondered why some designers are busy and others are not ? Aside from the Celebrity status that some designers carry with them, I would venture a guess that the difference is not mainly in design talent but more often a case of Networking.

Yes you heard me right, Networking or the non technical term “socializing”. As lame as it seems this mundane non design issue has everything to do with your success as a Interior Designer. After 30 years of working on both sides of this topic, I would like to share my thoughts on this with you. I have seen over and over how mediocre designers get quality jobs. Almost always it is a case of who they knew, and the relationship to the client (friend of the client’s friend, etc…) Mind you, I am not talking about the office which is done by a spouse, heaven knows that is plentiful, but instead I am discussing the jobs that occur not because of your education or experience but because of your “relationship” to the client at hand.

What does this have to do with your business ? In a word EVERYTHING !!!

If you want to increase your business you need to expand your horizons in all directions. Here are some suggestions:

• Get out there…. Join a networking group
• Participate in ASID NY Metro chapter events and meet other designers, discuss problems, solutions and opportunities with them – socialize
• Give, be generous with your time in giving to charitable events and get your name out there….It may just boomerang back !
• Join committees on your church, synagogue or other religious affiliations.

I know of a ASID designer that constantly gets “out there”, this designer has contacts everywhere and work that constantly stems from those associations, either directly or indirectly. Maybe it’s time for you to start to establish contacts ? I need to stress this point - you cannot participate in “socializing” for monetary gain. You have to sincerely enjoy the company of other people, and have a honest interest in helping out the associations and charities that you have subscribed to.

When you do, all the rest will fall in line.

Our Web portfolio program has been a great success and we see that more people are interested in signing on. Contact Mario Vasquez at (mario@asidnymetro.org) and ask for the help documents to "do it yourself"!

Students are posting their resumes in hopes of being considered by design employers for internships. If you are seeking an intern then look through the listings in the "Resources" category. Any Student who would like to have their resume listed should contact Mario Vasquez at (mario@asidnymetro.org)