There are so many ways to market your interior design business - and one important strategy does NOT involve advertising or social media! Networking is actually the most valuable tool in your marketing portfolio. And that includes wooing builders and real estate agents.

• They are in the same business WE are.
• Our ideal clients should be similar.
• And they can share insider knowledge that helps you stay ahead of trends in home buying and building.

But how can you make that outreach effective? I have three tips that work for me!

1. Remember It's Better to Give

When business is down or when we want to find an easy way to get more clients, we can sometimes rush in and focus on what WE want. But it is never a good idea to go around with your hand out! The best partnerships work because there are benefits for everyone. So ask yourself:

• What can you offer to a realtor or contractor?
• What do they want and need?
• How are their businesses doing?
• Are they a good fit? There's no point in trying to partner up with someone who has a very different target audience!

2. Reach Out

This may seem obvious - after all, networking is all about actually sitting down with someone! But all of us are fearful about intruding or reaching out to someone we don't know. Keep this in mind:

• Making connections is what business is ALLLL about!
• Ask to meet for lunch or coffee - that's an easy start on neutral ground with no strings attached.
• Business is tough for everyone today, so the people you reach out to are also looking for ways to find new business.
• One or two might say no, but others will say YES! It isn't personal so don't take it that way.

3. Get Creative

Once you've established a meeting, remember to LISTEN to what they want and need. And keep in mind that everyone wants business. So trying to work with several realtors may not be smart because you cannot bring all of them business. But you DO have things to offer if you get creative:

• You could offer a design consultation to a realtor's new clients when they purchase a home. That gives the real estate agent something to set them apart, too, and is a win-win for both of you.
• A builder may appreciate someone who can offer incredible spec packages.
• You and a builder can craft community homes that all focus on wellness, or homes that are high-tech and forward-thinking.

Play to your strengths and come up with unique ideas!

4. Give a Gift

Wooing someone should definitely include a gift. But not just candles - that's what every designer offers. Instead...

• Gift card to that restaurant in town that everyone wants to try!
• Bluetooth speakers or headphones
• An iPad mini that's already loaded with your portfolio and marketing, but that THEY can keep

The bigger the partner, the bigger the gift. Not everyone should get the iPad. 😉

Relationship marketing is the key - it always has been. That's true for your clients and for any partnerships you may want to form.

✨BONUS: The FREE download that helps you build relationships!

Get my FREE Relationship Building Schedule! It will keep you on track for meetings with contractors and real estate agents. Just remember that all it takes is a bit of courage and gumption!

👉 Click here to download the free guide now!

What if there was a SUPER simple way to keep up with EVERYTHING you have to do?? Of course I have it ready for you! Click the link to learn more about my Design Project Blueprint course and templates!

P.S. I know running your own business is overwhelming! I've been there and it isn't easy - and that is EXACTLY why I developed the Blueprint!! It really does give you shortcuts to organize your business for success.