Hey y’all, it’s Michelle Lynne here! Happy New Year, and welcome to the first episode of 2025 on Design for the Creative Mind! I’m kicking off this year with a theme that I think we all need: how to select and secure new clients. After a challenging 2024, where client inquiries slowed down and timelines stretched longer than usual, I’ve learned a lot about pivoting and simplifying sales and marketing processes. In this episode, I’m sharing the key lessons and strategies my team at ML Interiors Group implemented—and what’s working as we head into 2025.

Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Adjusting to Longer Sales Cycles We noticed that signing a client took 6–8 weeks instead of 3–4 weeks. I'll share how we adapted, including breaking projects into phases to meet clients where they are financially.

• The Power of Automation From automated email reminders to streamlining communication through SideMark (our software platform), we’ve enhanced professionalism, built excitement, and made appointment confirmations a breeze.

• Done is Better Than Perfect Discover how we refined our design presentations to save time while still delivering a stellar client experience—and increased our margins in the process.

• Why Social Media Still Matters Yes, social media can feel overwhelming and outdated. But it’s a powerful gateway to building your email list (where the real magic happens). I’ll explain how using the E.I.E.I.O. method (Educate, Inform, Entertain, Inspire, Opt-in) keeps your audience engaged and drives results.

• Owning Your Money Mindset Your clients’ financial stories aren’t the same as yours. Luxury clients value time-saving solutions—and your expertise is a significant part of that value.

Key Takeaways:

• Focus on what you can control—your mindset, processes, and client communication.
• Social media doesn’t need to be perfect. Be yourself, and your ideal clients will find you.
• Use freemiums or lead magnets (like guides or checklists) to build your email list. Pro tip: Offer something valuable that isn’t easily found on Google or Pinterest.

I’ll be breaking down more sales and marketing strategies in future episodes, including tips for email marketing and SEO. Stay tuned for actionable advice and insights that will help you attract and secure clients more efficiently this year!

 

  Head over to my website to download my free guide, 3 Things to Do Before Hiring an Interior Designer, and learn how to set your next project up for success. If you’ve been struggling with sales or marketing, let me know what questions you’d like me to answer in upcoming episodes—I’d love to help!

 

Thanks for tuning in today. Grab a pen, take notes, and let’s make 2025 your best year yet!

 

Podcast Website and Resources:

Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery  

Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.

 

SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business.

Stay in touch with Michelle

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/ 

Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad 

Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide

 

Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact

 

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

 

Let me know if you'd like tweaks or have a specific focus in mind!