EP#7 How to Run Your First Design Job with Confidence

Let me ask you a question? Are you still yet to run your first design or decorating project and are wondering how to do this with confidence? If this is you [or somebody you know] I'm going to help with that today.Hey it’s  Adam Scougall of the So You Want To Be An Interior Designer podcast, and welcome to EPISODE 7. This show really is for mid-career aspiring interior design or decorating solopreneurs that need support in building their own interior design business whilst working 9 to 5. My aim is to help you balance your time and make more money whilst being able to choose the projects you want to work on rather than ones you have to take to pay your billsBut first, whether you are just checking if you are the right fit for a new career in design, or wondering how you can improve what's going on in your current design career, then get clarity by taking my design quiz!*Take the quiz over at soyouwanttobeaninteriordesigner.tv/quiz1- Do your first job for free·       It’s ok to do this, especially when you have little to no experience. ·       This takes the pressure off whilst you are learning.·       You will quickly learn your value and feel confident to start charging next time.2- Run them through a contract·       A contract keeps the faith going for you and the client. It keeps everyone on track.·       Even if you are feeling like you are making all sorts off blunders along the way, the contract helps you keep on track with the bare bones of what you need to deliver. If you have delivered what’s in the contract, you’re covered!·       Zero out the dollar value of what you are doing, but still send an invoice! Generally, these include the consultation phase, the design phase and the project implementation phase, even if it's a small decorating project.2- Take photos and spread the word!·       Make sure you have an advance agreement to be able to photograph your work. Don't do anything for anyone that won't allow you to promote your talent!·       Make the most out of this. If you have to to bring in additional props, furniture of other items-do it. When it comes to photos, more is more and it's ok to embellish. Everybody does it!·       Don't let your imposter syndrome or self doubt tell you that because it's your first job, it isn't 'good enough'. Make it something to remember!*Take the quiz over at soyouwanttobeaninteriordesigner.tv/quiz Email me at [email protected] if you would like to chat further!Wondering if you're charging enough?Download my free Solo Designer Profit Guide™ and discover what interior designers are charging in 2026 based on 50+ research interviews across Australia, Canada and the USA. You'll also learn how to calculate the hourly rate YOU need to charge based on your own business, projects and financial goals—not someone else's.Download your free copy:turnkeydesignsuccess.com/profitguide If this episode raised questions for you, or you’re feeling stuck in your solo design business, you don’t have to figure it out on your own.I offer a 30-minute clarity session where we can talk through where you’re at, what’s getting in the way, and whether I can help.Email me at [email protected]